Inflammation plays a role in the body’s natural healing process and serves to help localize and remove the problem. It allows damaged cells and tissues to be cleared away and replaced by healthy cells at the site of an injury to assist with the healing process.

Acute inflammation that lasts only a few days is healthy, whereas longer than that may be considered chronic inflammation and a sign of improper healing. This chronic inflammation has been associated with numerous conditions including musculoskeletal degeneration, rheumatoid arthritis and many others.

Numerous factors can contribute to chronic inflammation including poor diet, inadequate exercise, genetics and biomechanics, stress, food allergies, infection, and environmental toxins. Fortunately, many of these can be reversed by simple lifestyle changes.

Below are some simple diet guidelines to help with the reduction of inflammation.

• Consume a healthy proportion of protein, fat, and carbohydrates
• Eat a wide variety of fruits and vegetables in all colors of the rainbow, and especially dark leafy greens.
• Include healthy fats like nuts, seeds, and avocado
• Avoid refined, processed sugars, instead opting for fruit to satisfy a sweet tooth
• Discover any gluten sensitivities and if appropriate reduce gluten-containing grains
• Steer clear of hydrogenated fats and replace them with naturally healthier choices such as olive oil, coconut oil and avocado oil
In combination with regular exercise, stress management and if needed, the consultation of a orthopedic physician, the risks from chronic inflammation can be minimized.

For more information on achieving better orthopedic health, please call or visit Spine & Orthopedic Center today. Our specialist doctors can help you determine an appropriate treatment plan to help you achieve your wellness goals.