Researchers have carefully studied some of the most common diseases to affect Western populations in search of their root causes. While many advances have been made, much is still unknown. However, they agree on a common factor in virtually all of them: inflammation.

Inflammation is a well-known symptom of infectious diseases, but more recently, chronic inflammation has been linked to numerous conditions, including major degenerative diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and even Alzheimer’s.

To better understand why inflammation is so important, it’s crucial to distinguish between acute and chronic inflammation.

Acute inflammation is a normal and essential process that allows the body to attack hostile invaders such as bacteria, fungi and other foreign substances anywhere in the body. Acute inflammation often comes on rapidly and subsides once the body has neutralized the threat and healed.

Unlike acute inflammation, which is short-lived, chronic inflammation can linger, lasting months or even years after the initial threat. Chronic inflammation typically starts as an acute inflammatory response; however, when your body’s healing powers go into overdrive, chronic inflammation can result. Alternatively, low levels of inflammation may be present even without the presence of an injury or illness. In this case, the immune system launches an attack on healthy cells and tissues.

What You Can Do to Curb Chronic Inflammation

Occasional inflammation is normal – and necessary! However, making smarter lifestyle choices can reduce your risk of creating an environment where chronic inflammation can thrive and lead to illness.

Many factors have been shown to play a role in chronic inflammation. These include obesity, chronic stress, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a sedentary lifestyle.