Anti-Inflammatory Lifestyle in Wayland MI

Often times people turn to pharmaceuticals to help fight the chronic inflammation in their bodies.  These can include corticosteroid creams, pills, or injections, and NSAIDs such as Tylenol, Ibuprofen, or Aspirin.  All these medical interventions do their job of reducing inflammation, by shutting down the immune system, without getting to the root cause.  While that may seem advantageous initially these drugs come at a cost with many negative side effects.  Some of the most common side effects include swelling and extra fluid, high blood pressure, upset stomach, heartburn, bloating, mood changes including confusion and memory problems, weight gain, high blood sugar, and thinning of bones in both men and women.  Chiropractors in Wayland MI agree that there may be healthier alternatives.

Ways to reduce inflammation in Wayland MI

The easiest and safest way to reduce systemic inflammation in our bodies is through our lifestyles, that is how we eat, think, and move.

Exercise.  Regular moderate activity (30 minutes, 3 times per week to start) has been shown to reduce inflammation.  Moderate-level aerobic activities include brisk walking or tennis.   Muscle-building activities like weightlifting or swimming two or more days a week are also advised.  The goal is to start with one or two days per week and work up to 4-5 days per week of moderate activity.  Choose something you like doing and enjoy!!

Sleep Hygiene.  Getting enough quality sleep is one of the most important things people need to keep their minds and bodies healthy.  The Centers for Disease Control recommend 7 hours of sleep per night to stay healthy.  People who do not get enough sleep, have poor sleep quality or disrupted sleep are more likely to have greater inflammation and health problems like type 2 diabetes and weight gain.  Sleep helps tissues in the body heal, grow, and repair and helps the body make the right levels of important hormones.

Manage Stress.  Stress during our day can be physical (threat of danger), mental (job, or financial stress), or emotional (social isolation, relationship troubles).  Stress is a natural part of life and can change over the course of one's life.  If stress is too high for too long the body can lose its ability to healthfully respond, causing increased inflammation which can harm us. The ability to manage stress can be developed.  Journaling, breathing techniques, progressive muscle relaxation, and tai chi are all popular ways of decompressing stress.