I'm debunking the myth that decline is just a part of getting older once and for all time!
This one will be a long one. In The 30 Day Kickstart Program we cover this material over a few days, it is that important y’all!
Let me drop some science:
If you have ever been to one of our retreats or heard me speak you will have heard me talking about how inflammation is responsible for about 80% of chronic conditions that people consider just a natural part of aging. If you know me pretty well, then you know that even though I tend to have a spirit based approach to health, having been a research scientist, I always want to see the research. When it comes to health claims, count me in the cynical category!
Well, there is research that confirms that decline is not just a part of aging, this research pinpoints a molecule called NFkB found inside cells. NFkB is responsible for telling our cells to start the inflammatory process. This is great if there is an invader that needs to be taken care of, but, inflammation that goes unchecked will eventually become chronic and can lead to a variety of diseases. So here is the very very very short version of what's going on inside the cell:
NFkB ----->
Activates COX 2----->
Which stimulates the production of prostaglandins ------>
That cause inflammation which may lead to ---->
PAIN and trigger DISEASE processes.
What increases its actions?
Lots of things can activate NFkB! One key activator is free radicals. Pollution, radiation, certain types of smoke (e.g. cigarettes,) and some chemicals such as those used in agriculture as well as even some of the foods we eat may increase exposure to free radicals.
What diseases are associated with increased NFkB?
Research shows that some NFkB associated diseases include: Cancer, atherosclerosis, asthma, hepatitis, diabetes, inflammatory gastrointestinal diseases, inflammatory arthritic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory kidney diseases such as glomerulonephritis, other autoimmune conditions etc.
What can help?
Keeping free radicals in check and suppressing the action of NFkB may help prevent and even may slow the course of many chronic inflammatory illnesses
- NSAIDS, COX 2 inhibitors and steroids have been shown in some studies to reduce the expression of NFkB and as a result reduce inflammation. This is great news, the only problem is that there are significant side effects associated with these drugs especially with long term use! Soooo don't want to go that route. What other options do we have?
A more natural approach has fewer side effects and is also effective for keeping NFkB under control:
- Increasing intake of fruits and vegetables (As many as 12 servings per day. I know this sounds like a lot but it's not really. Servings are smaller than you think and are easy to fit into your day...but that's another discussion for another day :)
- Potent natural antioxidants such as pycnogenol, polyphenols, resveratrol, vitamins C and E, curcumin, ginger, lipoic acid, coenzyme Q 10 to name a few.
- In addition to increasing fruits, vegetables and natural antioxidants in the diet, adopting what's called an anti-inflammatory lifestyle plan has also been proven to be very effective at keeping certain inflammatory conditions under control. We'll talk a bit more about anti inflammatory foods. I know you are looking forward to that part!
*Disclaimer: Please remember that it's impossible for me to diagnose you and treat you just by you reading one of my articles, books or from a challenge! I'm superwoman it's true, but even that is beyond my capabilities. So before you engage in any health and wellness activities, do consult your healthcare provider. Please know that we are happy to address your personal concerns, just call us in office (860-589-1491) to schedule your personal consultation; and thanks ever so much for reading. We appreciate you.
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