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Eat Right to Fight Inflammation
Inflammation is your immune system’s response to injury or infection. The inflammation process cleans out damaged tissue and sets the stage for healing to begin. But, if something interferes with the complex chemical balances of the immune system, the body fails to produce anti-inflammatory responses. In this case, inflammation becomes chronic. The negative effects of chronic inflammation can range from allergies to life-threatening diseases. Headaches, back pain and neck pain may also be a sign of chronic inflammation. Chronic inflammation also often manifests as an autoimmune condition, such as fibromyalgia, lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. The body reacts to a non-existent threat and attacks its own tissues. In other cases, chronic inflammation can be mild enough to go unnoticed yet cause significant cumulative damage over time to one or more organs or systems. The possible results can include cancer, heart disease, diabetes or osteoporosis. Fortunately, along with regular chiropractic care, you can reduce or prevent out-of-control inflammation with smart food choices. Eating to prevent chronic inflammation is not complicated — an anti-inflammatory diet is in line with the smart food choices Dr. Smith already recommends for patients to maintain optimal wellness. When it comes to preventing chronic inflammation, two foods are best avoided altogether: Trans fats and sugar. Ask Dr. Smith for more tips at your next adjustment. Dr. Barbara Smith
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