It’s difficult to prevent inflammation from happening. But most episodes of chronic inflammation are the result of bad habits that put unnecessary stress on our bodies. So here are some everyday habits that might be contributing to your condition that you need to change if you want to manage your symptoms.
You’re Not Getting Enough Rest
Adults need an average of 7 to 9 hours of sleep a day. But a lack of rest may cause you to age faster. It can also cause chronic inflammation to flare up throughout your body. So, catch some much-needed Zs, and your problems may go away.
You’re Having Digestive Problems
If your digestive system is out of whack, your body can’t get rid of toxins and waste. So, when they accumulate, you may experience inflammation all over your body. Your skin may lose its elasticity and become dry as well. So pay attention to these seemingly-innocent signs.
Your Diet Is Bad
What you put in your body affects your overall health. Foods containing tons of sodium can lead to inflammation. It might be time to cut down on the salt if you feel flushed or your fingers and ankles start to swell up.
You Drink Too Much Alcohol
Alcohol dehydrates and makes your skin feel dry and dehydrated. Booze can even cause premature aging, which is pretty hard to reverse, even with high-end anti-aging creams. It can also cause high blood pressure, bloating and inflammation. We’re not saying you shouldn’t drink, of course! But try not to overdo it if you want to avoid major health issues.
You Have A Sedentary Job
If you’re sitting in an office all day long and only get up to take a bathroom break, you could suffer from inflammation. You might even be at risk for other illnesses like cancer and diabetes. So, try being more active, even if you work a 9 to 5 job. Take a 5-minute break here and there. Walk around the building, or take 20 minutes off your lunch break to do some yoga.
You’re Emotionally Stressed
If you’re emotionally stressed all the time, you need to learn how to deal with it. Otherwise, your body will react to that stress by causing inflammation throughout your body. It can also age you and make you look tired. A little meditation can work wonders on your overall health.
You’re Physically Stressed
Do you have a job that’s physically demanding? If that’s the case, then this can lead to premature aging and inflammation. But since you need to make a living, we’re not about to suggest you quit your job, of course! Just make sure to give your body the time it needs to rest and heal after work. Go out for a walk or ride your bike on the weekends. Take at least 30 minutes to yourself and do some yoga exercises and stretch before you go to bed.
You’re Lacking Vitamin D
If you’re not getting enough Vitamin D, you could suffer from inflammation. But Vitamin D deficiency might also impede weight loss. Your skin won’t be able to create new skin cells either. But you can fix that by eating foods that are packed with Vitamin D or taking multivitamin supplements. Just remember that you have to go outside and soak up the sun for a few minutes to absorb this vitamin.
Insulin Levels
Check your insulin levels, even if you’re not diabetic. If your insulin levels are way too high or way too low, it could lead to inflammation as well. It will also make you feel like you’ve just had the life zapped out of you.
You’re Just Doing Cardio
Cardio works wonders on your heart, but the rest of your body also needs some TLC. Your muscle mass and strength take a dive after you turn 30, so try doing some muscle building exercises. Not doing so can also cause inflammation. On the other hand, doing too much exercise can also cause inflammation, so try to find some balance.
Hormones May Be To Blame
Hormonal changes may be brief or last several months. But one thing’s for sure, they’re always up to something. This can make you look older and, in some cases, lead to inflammation. But you should see your doctor regularly and get a hormonal check.
You Had Too Much Caffeine
We all need that cup of Joe in the morning to get us started. And who could say no to a large Coke for lunch? But too much caffeine stresses your body out, which leads to inflammation and bloating. So consider drinking less caffeine and getting more rest.
