Connect with us

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

Unveiling a Hidden Cause of Heart Disease and Cancer: The Role of Inflammation

Published

on

By

“Understanding and Managing Chronic Inflammation for Better Health”

Inflammation is increasingly recognized as a significant risk factor for heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Much like a car running hot signals an impending breakdown, chronic inflammation in the human body can lead to serious health problems. This article explores the link between inflammation and various diseases and offers expert advice on how to manage and reduce chronic inflammation…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

The Dual Nature of Inflammation

Inflammation is a crucial component of the body’s defence mechanism. It mobilizes the immune system to fight off bacteria and other pathogens, or to repair damage such as that from a sprained muscle. Infections often trigger a raised temperature, and injured areas can become warmer than the surrounding healthy tissue. However, when this short-term response fails to deactivate properly, or unhealthy lifestyle choices keep it simmering in the background, prolonged inflammation can significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, type-2 diabetes, arthritis, cancer, and many other chronic conditions.

The Impact of Chronic Inflammation

Studies estimate that three out of five people will die from diseases linked to chronic inflammation. Another study found that 50% of all deaths are due to conditions associated with inflammation, including heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and autoimmune and neurodegenerative conditions.

Professor Claire Bryant from the Department of Medicine at Cambridge University is a leading expert on inflammation. She explains that the NLRP3 inflammasome, a particular protein complex, plays a crucial role in many major diseases, including obesity, atherosclerosis, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s disease. “Inflammation seems to underpin most diseases of old age. As we age, we enter a condition called inflammaging, where we have higher markers for inflammation in the blood,” she notes.

This age-related inflammation is linked to the reduction in muscle mass, bone strength, and immunity, all of which are hallmarks of ageing.

Warning Signs and Risk Factors

Identifying chronic inflammation can be challenging, as there are no reliable tests. Routine blood tests often include checks for C-reactive protein, a marker for inflammation, but these are designed to measure short-term flare-ups associated with infections or injuries, rather than chronic inflammation. Symptoms of chronic inflammation are often dismissed as the results of busy lifestyles or ageing and can include aches and pains, insomnia, chronic fatigue, depression and mood disorders, gastric symptoms like constipation, diarrhoea, acid reflux, weight gain or loss, and frequent infections.

Several risk factors for chronic inflammation have been identified, including ageing, obesity, diets high in refined sugar and saturated and trans-fats, smoking, stress, sleep disorders, and low levels of sex hormones such as estrogen and testosterone. These risk factors often interact, creating a vicious cycle. For instance, a diet high in sugar and fat can lead to weight gain, poor sleep increases the risk of obesity, and hormone levels decline with age.

Professor Bryant highlights the cyclical nature of inflammation: “Inflammation can start to ramp up and get out of control because once it starts, it becomes a vicious cycle. It requires intervention with medication and lifestyle changes.”

Medical Measures and Treatments

Research has shown that medications used to treat heart disease and diabetes also reduce inflammation. Statins, commonly prescribed for lowering cholesterol, also reduce inflammation, which helps protect against hardening of the arteries and coronary heart disease. Similarly, metformin, a diabetes treatment, has been found to dampen chronic inflammation. Scientists are still investigating the mechanisms behind this anti-inflammatory effect, but a study suggested that metformin could be repurposed to address a range of complications, including inflammation, infections, and even cancer. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

Fasting and Inflammation

Studies have shown that fasting can reduce inflammation. Both alternate-day fasting and time-restricted eating, where daily calorie intake is confined to a narrow window, have been proven to lower inflammation, provided they lead to a reduction in body weight of at least 6%. Professor Bryant’s research revealed an unexpected mechanism behind this reduction: fasting increases levels of arachidonic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid previously identified as a driver of inflammation. “There could be a yin and yang effect, where too much of the wrong thing increases inflammasome activity and too little decreases it,” she explains. However, she advises against fasting without consulting a doctor, especially for individuals with conditions like diabetes.

The Role of Fats in Inflammation

The types of fats we consume can influence inflammation levels. Saturated fats are particularly harmful because they increase the odds of being overweight and short-circuit the immune system, driving inflammation. Maintaining a balance between omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids is also crucial. Historically, the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 in our diet was around 4:1, but the typical Western diet now has a ratio closer to 20:1, which may promote low-level inflammation.

Omega-3 fatty acids, found in oily fish, have well-documented anti-inflammatory properties. Professor Philip Calder from the University of Southampton has shown that omega-3 fats DHA and EPA give rise to resolvins, which are anti-inflammatory and help resolve inflammation.

The Importance of Sleep

Disrupted sleep increases the risk of various health problems associated with inflammation. Researchers at Oxford University found that good sleep patterns can reduce the risk of dying from cardiometabolic diseases by up to 39% and from cancer by up to 19%. Inflammation appears to be a key driver of this link. Poor sleep also increases the risk of obesity and cravings for high-fat, high-sugar foods, perpetuating the cycle of inflammation.

Exercise and Inflammation

Exercise is a proven method to combat inflammation and many age-related diseases. Short bursts of intense activity are particularly effective, but even 20 minutes of exercise a day can lower inflammation. Resistance training is also beneficial and aligns with NHS advice to engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.

In conclusion, chronic inflammation is a hidden driver of many serious health conditions, but it can be managed through a combination of medication, diet, lifestyle changes, and exercise. By understanding and addressing the factors that contribute to inflammation, we can reduce our risk of heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and other chronic illnesses.

 

READ FULL STORY HERE>>...CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>
Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

3 Reasons Why People Die In Their Sleep: Please Do Not Ignore

Published

on

By

Getting adequate shut-eye is crucial to your health, and that much should go without saying. However, it could be unhealthy to sleep too little. When you lay your head down for the night, a lot of bad things can happen to you.

Have you ever wondered what causes individuals to pass away peacefully during their sleep? It is a phenomenon that has intrigued scientists, doctors, and the general public alike. In this blog post, we delve into the five most common reasons why people may unfortunately die in their sleep…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

While this topic may seem morbid, understanding these causes can help shed light on certain health risks, encourage awareness, and encourage proactive measures to prevent such circumstances. So, let’s explore the various factors that can lead to these unexpected occurrences.

5 Reasons Why People Die in Their Sleep

1. Cardiac Arrest: A Silent Culprit

Cardiac arrest is one of the most prevalent causes of sudden death during sleep. It occurs when the heart’s electrical system malfunctions, resulting in a sudden loss of blood flow to the brain and other vital organs. Factors like age, family history, lifestyle choices, such as smoking and unhealthy diets, and underlying medical conditions can all contribute to an increased risk of cardiac arrest during sleep.
Factors Leading to Cardiac Arrest

a. Age and Genetics: The Silent Influencers

As individuals age, the risk of cardiac arrest, especially during sleep, increases. Family history also plays a role, as genetic predispositions can make some individuals more susceptible to experiencing cardiac issues. It is crucial to be aware of these factors, as prevention and early detection can significantly reduce the risk.

b. Lifestyle Choices: Pushing the Boundaries

Poor lifestyle choices, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, lack of physical activity, and an unhealthy diet, can heighten the risk of cardiac arrest during sleep. Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle can significantly minimize the occurrence of such incidents. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

2. Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Breathing Troubles

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder characterized by breathing difficulty during sleep. People with OSA experience temporary blockages in their airways, leading to frequent interruptions in their breathing patterns. Severe cases of OSA can result in a decrease in oxygen levels, causing stress on the heart and an increased likelihood of heart-related health issues.
Contributing Factors to Obstructive Sleep Apnea

a. Obesity: A Weighty Matter

Obesity is a major contributing factor to OSA. Excess weight, particularly around the neck and throat area, narrows the airways and can lead to frequent breathing disruptions during sleep. Maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise is essential in reducing the risk of OSA-related fatalities during sleep.

b. Untreated Snoring: A Warning Sign

Persistent snoring can be an indicator of an underlying health issue, including OSA. Failing to address chronic snoring can lead to severe complications and fatal outcomes during sleep. Seeking medical advice and undergoing necessary diagnostic tests can facilitate early detection and appropriate treatment.

Conclusion

While passing away peacefully during sleep is relatively rare, understanding the potential causes can help safeguard against potential health risks. By acknowledging the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle, being aware of our family history, and heeding warning signs like chronic snoring, we can take proactive measures to minimize the possibility of experiencing these unfortunate circumstances. Remember, prevention and early detection are key in maintaining overall well-being and longevity. Stay informed, take care of your health, and give yourself the best chance of a restful night’s sleep!

READ FULL STORY HERE>>...CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>
Continue Reading

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

When You Drink Hot Water Every Day, This Is What Happens To Your Body

Published

on

By

Have you ever given any thought to what would happen to your body if you continually subjected it to the effects of drinking hot water? When everything is taken into account, we are aware that water is important for the body to keep adequately hydrated and that it accounts for sixty percent of the human adult body (via USGS). Water makes up sixty percent of the human adult body. Who would have thought, though, that the temperature at which you consume it plays a role in the kinds of health benefits you gain from it…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

 

As a result of the fact that Tom Cruise’s relationship with Suri has been lately brought to light in a variety of different ways.

However, drinking water that has been brought to a boil on a frequent basis offers a variety of additional health benefits, which your body may be prevented from taking advantage of if you drink cold water instead of water that has been brought to a boil. People have a propensity, when they think about drinking water, to picture themselves in a position in which they are sipping some water that is really cold while basking in the warmth of the late spring sun or relishing in the virus-like sensation of it after a particularly tough twisting class. This is because people have a tendency to picture themselves in scenarios in which they are partaking in activities that involve extreme temperatures. Drinking warm water first thing in the morning is recommended by medical professionals, as stated by Stella Metsovas, a professional nutritionist, who explains why this is the case. Medical Daily has been provided with this information. In point of fact, and to some degree one is taken aback by this revelation, access to this kind of information has been available for a significant amount of time now. According to Reader’s Digest, both Chinese and Indian physicians encourage drinking this steaming hot beverage first thing in the morning to get the most out of the day due to the many excellent benefits it has on one’s health. This is because traditional Chinese medicine and Indian medicine both believe that drinking this beverage in the morning helps one get the most out of the day.

Therefore, would you be so kind as to elaborate on what you mean by that? If you drink hot water on a regular basis, your body will experience these effects, which are something that may be expected.

There is some evidence that lowering your blood pressure can be accomplished by drinking hot water on a regular basis. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

In this difficult environment, there is a clear approach for being able to stretch less, and it all starts with establishing a daily appreciation for water. This is the first step in the process. Dietitian Amanda Carlson, who is also a qualified dietitian, is of the opinion that individuals can benefit from keeping an adequate level of hydration in order to experience reduced levels of anxiety. If you don’t give your body the liquids it needs, you’re adding extra weight to it, and your body will react to this by acting erratically.

According to Healthline, consuming hot water reduces the activity of your focus sensory system, which is responsible for determining how your brain reacts when it is subjected to pressure. According to the American Psychological Association, not getting enough water can cause confusion in the central nervous system, which can trigger a vicious loop that never comes to an end. It is actually easier to become dehydrated when you are under pressure, as your pulse will be higher than normal, and you will be breathing more actively than usual, says Renee Melton, MS, RD, LD, who is the head of nutrition at Sensei. This is because your pulse will be higher when you are under strain. WebMD received this information from another source. Therefore, if you truly want to get rid of the problem the next time it comes up, you might want to consider the alternative of continuously drinking hot water.

Regularly consuming water that has been heated to a boil has the ability to reduce the amount of physical pain and suffering that individual is experiencing

 

READ FULL STORY HERE>>...CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>
Continue Reading

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

Place this leaf in every corner of your house and you will not see cockroaches again

Published

on

By

Cockroaches are notorious and unsightly pests that are commonly associated with waste and dirt. However, they can also be found in homes, making their way into the closets and bedrooms.

Their ability to adapt and survive is remarkable, allowing them to thrive in various environments around the world. Cockroaches are incredibly resilient creatures, capable of withstanding high levels of radiation and surviving for over a month without food. As omnivores, they can consume both plant-based foods and other animals, which explains their ubiquitous presence as they scavenge for sustenance…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

 

In addition to feeding on garbage, cockroaches leave chemical trails through their feces. This serves as a form of communication, enabling them to locate sources of water and food. It is this behavior that leads to their establishment in specific areas. Despite their ability to squeeze through tiny openings and endure long periods without sustenance, they often enter homes through bags, boxes, and even gaps under doors.

If you’re looking to eliminate cockroaches that have invaded your home, I recommend a highly effective method that is safe, especially if you have young children or pets. Bay leaves serve as an excellent natural repellent for cockroaches. While they may not kill the pests, the strong odor emitted by the leaves is unbearable for them, driving them away quickly. Placing bay leaf branches in every corner of the house is recommended.

Specifically, putting ten bay leaves in the kitchen will prevent cockroaches from roaming around. Bay leaves are particularly suitable for areas where food is stored, such as the kitchen or pantry, as they are safe and non-toxic. Additionally, I suggest placing bay leaves in your garden, especially if you have pets. This way, you can eliminate cockroaches without worrying about the safety of your children or pets. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

Whether you use fresh or dried bay leaves, the most effective way to utilize them is to crush the dry leaves into a powder. This intensifies the fragrance they release. To use bay leaves as a cockroach deterrent, place whole leaves behind appliances, near entry points, in closets, and in various corners of your home. Open containers and bowls can also be filled with bay leaves and strategically placed. Furthermore, burning a bay leaf in your home not only adds a pleasant natural aroma but also provides additional cockroach protection.

In conclusion, by ensuring you have ten bay leaves in the kitchen, you can effectively prevent cockroaches from roaming around. Bay leaves are a safe and non-toxic option for areas where food is stored, such as the kitchen or pantry. By following this method, you can eliminate cockroaches without worrying about the safety of your children.

 

READ FULL STORY HERE>>...CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>
Continue Reading

Trending

error: Content is protected !!