Allergies, Arthritis, Inflammation - What To Do?

Inflammation is a natural biological response by the body to injury or infection. Immune cells and other substances such as histamines go on high alert to protect tissues and initiate healing. In the short term, inflammation is helpful for fighting off threats and repairing damage. However, in the long term, chronic or excessive inflammation can be harmful and contribute to various diseases. 

What Causes Inflammation?

• Infections: Bacteria, viruses, and fungi can trigger inflammation. 

• Injuries: Trauma, cuts, sprains, and other physical injuries can initiate inflammation.

• Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy cells and tissues. These attacks can affect almost any part of the body and lead to various symptoms, including fatigue, pain, and inflammation. 

• Environmental Factors: Exposure to irritants, allergens, mold, pollen,or toxins can trigger inflammation. 

• Lifestyle Factors: Poor diet, lack of exercise, stress, and smoking can contribute to chronic inflammation. 

  
  

What is the Big Deal?  There are several important consequences of chronic inflammation:

• Heart Disease: Chronic inflammation is a major risk factor for heart disease. 

• Cancer: Chronic inflammation can contribute to the development of certain cancers. 

• Diabetes: Chronic inflammation is linked to the development of type 2 diabetes. 

• Arthritis: Chronic inflammation is a key feature of many types of arthritis. 

• Other Conditions: Chronic inflammation has also been linked to Alzheimer's disease, depression, and other health problems. 

  
  

What can I do to Manage Inflammation?

• Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats can help reduce inflammation. 

• Exercise: Regular daily physical activity can help reduce chronic inflammation. 

• Stress Management: Deep breathing, meditation, doing something fun 

• Lifestyle Changes: Smoking cessation, limiting alcohol consumption, and getting adequate sleep can help reduce chronic inflammation. 

• Medications: Certain medications, like NSAIDS and corticosteroids, can be used to manage acute inflammation. 

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What Supplements have been shown to be Effective in Reducing Inflammation? 

There are several helpful supplement suggestions and after each category, I will share the Shaklee products that contain these ingredients.

• Omega 3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish oil and algae oil, these fatty acids, particularly DHA and EPA, have been shown to reduce inflammation. OmegaGuard

• Curcumin/Tumeric: Curcumin a compound found in the spice turmeric has potent anti-inflammatory effects. Tumeric Boost

• Resveratrol: Found in grapes and other fruits, resveratrol may help reduce inflammation by decreasing the expression of genes involved in the inflammatory process. Vivix

• Green Tea Extract: Green tea and its major component, EGCG, have anti-inflammatory effects by suppressing the expression of inflammatory cytokines and enzymes. Included in several Shaklee products – Shaklee 180 Energizing Tea, CorEnergy and more.

• Quercetin: This flavonoid, found in many fruits and vegetables, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Triple Defense Boost

• Vitamin D – This vitamin is important for so many body functions and it has been shown to improve immune regulation and reduce chronic inflammation. Vita D3

• Vitamin C – A powerful antioxidant that supports your immune system and reduces inflammation. Sustained Release C

• Alfalfa – This superfood is abundant in vitamins, minerals and chlorophyll. Alfalfa Complex is one of Dr. Shaklee’s first formulas and continues to be a favorite for nurturing your system to deal with inflammatory irritants. Alfalfa Complex

• Special Botanical Blends - Immunologists have worked for decades to discover what blends of plants can best support the body's response to inflammation. Shaklee's Nutriferon is a unique and especially effective product .

  
  

  

  Allergy Season!