Chronic inflammation is a persistent, low-grade immune response that can last for months or even years. Unlike acute inflammation, which is a necessary and healthy response to injury or infection, chronic inflammation is systemic and damaging to healthy tissues. It is often triggered by lifestyle factors such as a diet high in processed foods and sugar, sedentary behavior, chronic stress, and exposure to environmental toxins.
In the context of metabolic health, chronic inflammation is a primary driver of insulin resistance, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. It creates a state of 'biological stress' that interferes with normal hormonal signaling and cellular function. Reducing systemic inflammation through dietary changes (such as a lectin-free or carb-conscious diet), weight loss, and stress management is essential for restoring metabolic health and preventing the progression of chronic diseases.
The definitive guide by Russell Clark, FNP-C, APRN