The immune system is one of the wonders of the human body. When anything breaches its boundaries from the flu to a virus, parasite or wound, the body launches its internal defense systems, including inflammation, which is part of the healing process. But when the immune system overreaches or poor diet and other lifestyle habits crimp the body’s healing, there’s an opportunity for inflammation to become chronic and possibly even trigger an autoimmune condition. Whether it’s heart disease, diabetes, obesity, allergies or issues like Hashimoto’s, Graves’ disease or rheumatoid arthritis, inflammation is a sneaky contributor. This special issue on how to beat anti-inflammation will explain how this simmering fire gets a foothold in the body and how some easy shifts can help douse it. Articles include how to identify markers for inflammation, surprising immune system triggers and signs of hidden inflammation that contributes to nagging health issues such as eczema, headaches, fatigue, obesity and more. There will be stories on how poor gut health is a driver of inflammation and the best ways to feed your belly and body the healthiest anti-inflammatory foods and supplements. Finally, the issue will cover how sleep, stress and other lifestyle choices fan the flames of inflammation and how to cool them down to optimize health and feel your best. For almost every symptom you’ve wanted to address and never knew the answer, there’s a chance inflammation was the culprit and we help you overcome it.
The Complete Guide to Anti-Inflammation
THE COMMON THREAD • CHRONIC INFLAMMATION SETS THE STAGE FOR PROBLEMS FROM HEAD TO TOE.
A QUIET INFERNO • Your system can get nudged off the rails, and that can have profound consequences for physical and even emotional health.
THE BIG PICTURE IT GETS AROUND • Inflammation can take root all over the body. Here are some common spots:
HEART STOPPERS • There’s a surprising risk factor for cardiovascular disease that’s on par with high blood pressure and excess weight.
INSIDE THE FIRE PIT • The daily goings-on in your digestive tract can set you up for battle—or a strong immune system.
THE KEY PLAYERS BIOTA ON BOARD • These are the (mostly) healthy critters in your colon.
THAT’S SO META • That spare tire—however small—could be fueling a high level of systemic inflammation.
FIND YOUR IDEAL SIZE • Use these four tips to find a healthy weight that you can maintain for life.
YOUR MASTER SWITCH • The finely calibrated thyroid gland has a hand in keeping every system in your body running smoothly. But inflammation is a common culprit that can throw it off-kilter.
LONG-HAULERS • COVID-19 isn’t the only respiratory illness that likes to hang around.
‘I’VE HAD LONG COVID FOR 1.5 YEARS!’ • This Californian is still struggling to get help and answers.
A MYSTERY VIRUS • This ubiquitous bug can lurk inside the body for years, triggering inflammation and serious health problems.
BY THE NUMBERS • These fascinating stats about inflammation and the immune system may blow your mind.
FIGHT FIRE WITH FOOD • WHAT YOU PUT IN YOUR BODY PLAYS A HUGE ROLE IN HOW MUCH INFLAMMATION YOU HAVE.
THE BEST DIETS TO TURN DOWN THE FLAME • Instead of being restrictive or doing a “detox,” try one of these plans to improve your health.
11 HEALTH-OPTIMIZING FOOD SWAPS • Make these switcheroos to add nutrients without sacrificing flavor and satisfaction.
THINK BEFORE YOU SWITCH • These change-ups aren’t necessarily better for your health.
THE BIG GUNS • Front-load your diet with these foods for a healthier body, gut and immune system.
5 HEALING HERBS AND SPICES • Turn your kitchen into a medicine cabinet with these natural “medicines.”
Choosing...