Originally published September 23 2005
Internal inflammation may be linked to health concerns; changing diet, health habits can help
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
Inflammation is ordinarily the body's reaction to certain injuries, but scientists are just starting to link internal inflammation with health concerns such as diabetes, heart disease, arthritis and high blood pressure, and the Portsmouth Herald reports turning to a healthy diet and increasing exercise is the best treatment for this problem.
Internally, you can have an ongoing low level of inflammation occurring that researchers are starting to link to a number of major health concerns, such as heart disease, diabetes, arthritis and high blood pressure.
Fortunately, changing your eating habits and boosting your exercise can also help to lower this inflammation and reduce your risk.
As the blood vessels narrow, the higher pressure weakens them and increases the risk of stroke or heart attacks.
One marker for inflammation is called C-reactive protein (CRP).
The theory is that when this is high in the blood, it negatively affects blood vessel wall regulators.
Studies have shown that even people with normal blood pressure may eventually develop high blood pressure if their CRP levels are high.
With high CRP and the presence of other risk factors for heart disease - like high cholesterol - the possibility greatly increases for a heart attack.
With metabolic syndrome, you have a combination of issues - high blood pressure, low good cholesterol, high triglycerides, insulin resistance, and too much abdominal fat.
It appears that even a modest weight loss can greatly benefit health.
A diet low in saturated and trans fats that includes mono-unsaturated fats (such as nuts, seeds, olive or canola oils, avocado) in moderation can help.
Another good addition is sources of omega 3 fatty acids in the form of fish oils.
A more plant-based diet can also help - lots of fruits, vegetables, high fiber grains, beans, nuts, and seeds.
These contain things like fiber, magnesium, and potassium that improve CRP levels and factors related to metabolic syndrome.
Shoot for about 25-30 grams of fiber per day, 3-5 servings of fruit, and at least 2� cups of vegetables per day.
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