Understanding Inflammation and Helpful Supplements

Quick Smiles:

• Experts shed light on real causes behind inflammation-related symptoms
• Fish oil stands out with evidence supporting its anti-inflammatory benefits
• Lifestyle changes often make the biggest difference in managing inflammation

Inflammation is often blamed for many vague health symptoms, from fatigue to brain fog, especially on social media. Experts say while inflammation is real, it’s important to separate myths from medical facts.

“It’s almost like a boogeyman. … Everything is from inflammation, but it can also mean nothing a lot of the times,”

shared Dr. Zachary Mulvihill, physician at NewYork-Presbyterian’s Integrative Health and Wellbeing Program.

Our immune system creates inflammation to protect the body against injury and infection, says Dr. Matthew Badgett of the Cleveland Clinic. This response increases blood flow and activates special cells to help with recovery.

“Generally speaking, it’s our immune system processing anything and everything,”

explains Dr. Badgett.

Acute inflammation, like swelling after an injury, is a positive sign the body is healing. Problems arise when inflammation lingers too long, harming healthy tissues and increasing disease risks.

Chronic inflammation can be tricky to measure or notice, and often stems from lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of exercise, insufficient sleep, smoking, drinking alcohol, and stress. Doctors may use blood tests to check for markers, but elevated results don’t always offer straightforward answers.

When it comes to supplements, research shows mixed results. “The problem with all these supplements is they have limited evidence, or … some studies show some benefit and some don’t,” says Badgett.

Fish oil, known for its omega-3 fatty acids, has the strongest research supporting its anti-inflammatory and heart-protective effects. “Fish oil is probably the only one that has a substantial body of evidence,”

notes Dr. Mulvihill.

Omega-3s appear to help reduce inflammation markers in conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and rheumatoid arthritis, especially for people who don’t eat fish regularly. But experts agree it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

Staying active, eating well, and managing stress are still some of the most effective ways to keep inflammation in check. For more uplifting wellness insights, make sure to follow us for your daily dose of good news!

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