Inflammation Control

Inflammation is a complex process that occurs in response to injury or infection (such as physical trauma, pathogens, chemicals, irritants and exposure to allergens). Inflammatory reactions involve both the vascular and immune systems causing a range of symptoms including redness, swelling, heat and ulceration. In the body, inflammation can present as skin rashes, digestive disorders, joint pain and swelling, urinary conditions, hormonal imbalances and vascular disorders.

Chronic inflammation is strongly linked to many disease processes including:

• Atherosclerosis
• Acne vulgaris 
• Acne rosacea
• Asthma
• Autoimmune diseases
• Celiac disease and gluten sensitivities
• Hypersensitivities including skin reactions (eczema, psoriasis, hives)
• Inflammatory bowel diseases
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Interstitial cystitis
• Menstrual disorders and hormone imbalances

How can the principles of Naturopathic living help?

Nutrition: Following an anti-inflammatory diet to remove the most common sensitivities is one of the corner stones to reducing and controlling inflammation. Gluten, sugar, soy, dairy, peanuts and eggs are among some of the most common triggers for inflammation. Furthermore, a diet rich in nutrients and balanced protein/fat/carb ratios is important for sustainable dietary changes and enhanced healing. Dietary changes can dramatically improve digestive disorders, skin rashes, weight loss, energy levels, immune response, joint pain and allergic reactions.

Omega-3 fish oils are essential fatty acids (EFAs) that we can only get from the diet or supplementation. They play a key role in modulating inflammation by altering prostaglandin production and blocking inflammatory cascades.

Herbal Medicine: Powerful anti-inflammatory herbs and spices include Boswellia, Curcumin (from turmeric) and Ginger. These need to be taken in therapeutic amounts from a high quality source for maximum benefits.

Depending on the specific symptom picture, there are specific treatment options to help heal damaged tissue.
 

Managing inflammation is a central part to long-term disease prevention and management as well as improving your skin, energy and weight management. Find out how you can control inflammation for optimal health with the guidance of a qualified Naturopathic Doctor.

Yours in Health 

- Dr Carrie Watkins, Naturopathic Doctor at Victoria Massage Therapy and Health Solutions