Inflammation is part of the complex biological response of body tissues to harmful stimuli, such as pathogens, damaged cells, or irritants. It is a defense reaction of the body against injury. Inflammation stems from many sources, including:
- Sugar, particularly in the form of fructose and sucrose, spikes insulin and triggers the release of inflammatory cytokines. It forms advanced glycation endproducts when it binds to proteins, and oxidizes lipids which form cell and mitochondrial membranes.
- Chemical Exposure to products such as pesticides, environmental pollution from industrial waste, hormonally-modulating plastics, fire retardants, and cosmetic additives all stimulate our immune systems to varying extents and disrupt the optimal production of energy on a cellular level, particularly in vulnerable tissues like the thyroid.
- Pathogens, Bacterial Imbalances, and Yeast Overgrowth: Herbicides, gluten, and genetically modified foods, promote intestinal permeability, changes in our intestinal flora that facilitate the growth of pathogenic bacteria, yeast, and fungus which keep our immune systems in a state of alarm.
- Stress represents the ultimate link between hormones and inflammation, because stress, whether it’s psychological or physiologic, triggers the release of cortisol. Cortisol helps to mobilize blood sugar so that you can run effectively and efficiently from that tiger chasing you. It also acts as a systemic immune suppressant, lowering levels of secretory IgA, an important bodyguard of the gut mucosa.
Once inflammation is active, it is self-perpetuating. These inflammatory cytokines travel throughout the body causing oxidating stress to the tissues and mitochondria. If you’re suffering from symptoms of inflammation such as fatigue, abdominal pain, rash or joint pain, talk to your healthcare professional about ways to identify your inflammation sources and remove them.
