Inflammation is instigated when pro-inflammatory hormones (cytokines, prostaglandins) signal the white blood cells to isolate and clear out antigens, damaged tissue and infected areas of the body. The inflammatory process then moves into high gear, neutralizing and eliminating the intruder and then beginning the healing process. If such inflammation is acute and ebbs and flows according to specific needs, then the immune system is working efficiently. However, sometimes the inflammatory response does not switch off when the danger has passed. This leads to chronic inflammation.

Stress, smoking, high blood sugar levels, bacteria, viruses and parasites are all contributory factors towards chronic inflammation.

Some people have a hereditary disposition towards chronic inflammation. Such environmental factors as diet, exposure to toxins, germs, pollutants and inhalants also pre-dispose a person to develop an overactive inflammatory system.

Diet has often been overlooked as cause of inflammation. To reduce the likelihood of one’s diet being a contributory factor to an out of control inflammatory system, eat plenty of fish and vegetables. Avoid over indulgence in sugary foods, simple carbs and fatty acids. Junk foods should be eliminated from the diet.

Foods containing arachidonic acid, such as eggs, organ meats, beef and dairy products promote inflammation. Over-cooked foods and those that are cooked at high temperatures should be avoided. This is because foods cooked in such a manner create advanced glycation end products (AGES), which the body treats as an antigen. This promotes the inflammatory response.

Over-eating, regardless of the foods involved, can also bring on an inflammatory response. Five or six evenly spaced small meals throughout the day are ideal for those concerned about preventing chronic inflammatory problems. Being overweight can also promote the inflammatory response. Fat cells secrete inflammatory factors such as cytokines and histamines, which bring on an inflammatory response.

As one ages the inflammatory system becomes less efficient. Age is also related to increases in systemic markers of inflammation.

Insomnia is another condition that can bring on the inflammatory response. When we sleep the immune system is given time to calm down and cytokine secretion slows down. For people with such conditions as rheumatoid arthritis, pain associated with the condition can prevent sleep, which, in turn, causes further pain and discomfort.