Bottom Line:

If you've ever cut your finger or twisted your ankle, then you have first-hand experience with inflammation. The redness, swelling, pain and heat are all hallmarks of the inflammatory process. In some ways, this is the first step of the healing process as your body begins to repair the injured tissue. However, there is another side to inflammation that can be extremely damaging to your overall health…chronic inflammation.

Why it Matters:

Chronic inflammation occurs when the body is unable to complete the healing process. Your immune system may continue to produce white blood cells that create oxidative stress for months or even years. This long-term stress, or chronic inflammation, has been linked to diseases such as cancer, heart disease and diabetes. Some of the risk factors for developing chronic inflammation include smoking, obesity, poor diet, stress and sleep disorders.

·       Chronic inflammation is a long-term inflammation that can last for months or years.

·       Diseases such as diabetes, cancer and heart disease have been linked to chronic inflammation.

·       Reducing stress through exercise & diet can help reduce chronic inflammation and create a healthier you.

Next Steps:

You can reduce or eliminate chronic inflammation naturally with a few simple steps. Researchers have discovered that daily exercise and weight loss can cause a dramatic reduction in chronic inflammation. Additionally, reducing the stress on your muscles and joints through Chiropractic care may provide additional benefits on your way to curbing chronic inflammation.

Science Source:

 Understanding Inflammation. Harvard Health Publishing. 2019

Dr. Ryno Tope is a Doctor of Chiropractic, a member of the New Zealand Chiropractic Association, and owner of Structural Chiropractic in Hastings, Hawke’s Bay. Dr. Tope focuses on an area of chiropractic called Structural Correction and has been in practice for 6 years. You can reach Dr. Tope at drryno@structuralchiro.co.nz or 06•651•1004. You can also follow the Structural Chiropractic Facebook page (www.facebook.com/StructuralChiropracticHB).

Our modern diet and lifestyle have been linked to a variety of digestive issues. The overall health of your digestive system is closely tied to the food you eat, the exercise you get, and your overall stress levels.