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Managing chronic inflammation can be a physically and mentally exhausting task for many people; it comes with pain, irritability, and stress that isn’t easily banished. It can affect everything from the spine to the gums, and it can be influenced by everything from certain foods and drinks to the activity you participate in on a given day. When you’re living with systemic pain, it can be hard to see a way out of it, but it’s important to remember that there are many things you can do to help your body heal and find comfort.
One of the best ways to fight inflammation is to check your diet. Different foods can have various effects on your body, so it’s a good idea to do some research on how the way you eat can help you feel better. Vegetable oils, red meat, and alcohol are all culprits when it comes to inflammation, so steering clear of those can often be helpful. You can also take a look at supplements of all kinds, from vitamins to alternative medicines.
Here are a few tips on how to manage your inflammation and pain.
Tip #1: Look for a quality supplement
There are many things you can do to supplement your diet and lifestyle when you’re living with chronic inflammation, and one of the most popular these days is taking CBD oil. This cannabis-derived oil has no THC, which means you won’t get a “high” feeling from it; you may, however, get some relief. In fact, according to MedicalNewsToday.com, “CBD stops the body from absorbing anandamide, a compound associated with regulating pain. So, increased levels of anandamide in the bloodstream may reduce the amount of pain a person feels. Cannabidiol may also limit inflammation in the brain and nervous system, which may benefit people experiencing pain, insomnia, and certain immune-system responses.”
Before selecting one, read reviews online to find out which kind of CBD oil might be right for you, and talk to your doctor before starting a regimen.
Tip #2: Exercise the right way
Exercise is a great way to manage inflammation, but only if it’s done the right way. Too much activity can be just as bad as not enough, and it’s crucial to keep communication open with your doctor so he can help you find the right workout for you. Walking, for example, is perfect since it allows your muscles to recover and get the oxygen they need.
“Walking is a great way to let your muscles recover — it brings down inflammation by sending fresh blood and oxygen throughout your body, pumping the lymphatic system for waste removal, and gently restoring your digestive system if it feels off,” says health coach Michelle Cady.
Tip #3: Get good sleep
Inflammation is the body’s way of telling you that something is wrong, and sometimes the best way to take care of yourself is by getting enough sleep. The two are linked in that people who don’t get enough rest are more at risk of inflammation, and individuals who suffer from illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, cancers, and type 2 diabetes are more likely to have sleep issues. Make sure your rest environment is comfortable and clean, and create a routine for resting that will help you relax and get ready for sleep at night.
Managing inflammation can be difficult no matter what your health is like, but if you can make a plan to keep your mind and body feeling good, you’ll have an advantage. Talk to your doctor about any concerns, and never start a new regimen without getting his okay first. With a few small changes to your lifestyle, you can help reduce pain and inflammation on your terms.
Guest Blog by Jennifer McGregor
Jennifer McGregor is a pre-med student, who loves providing reliable health and medical resources for PublicHealthLibrary.org users. She knows how difficult it can be to sift through the mountains of health-related information on the web. She co-created the site with a friend as a way to push reputable information on health topics to the forefront, making them easier and quicker to find.