Health

Inflammation and your Health

By Dr. Jenna Dye, Naturopathic Physician

WHAT IS INFLAMMATION?

Inflammation is a natural response by the immune system to events such as illness, trauma, physical stress, and chronic disease. Acute inflammation is a short-term healing process that warns our body of an injury. For example, if you break a bone, the body reacts quickly with redness, swelling, pain, and heat. This warns us to be more cautious of the injured area, preventing any further damage.

Chronic inflammation is a low level of inflammation that is not visible. It is a result of prolonged acute inflammation, repetitive injuries, or even external factors such as chemicals, medications, nutrient deficiencies, food sensitivities, and metabolic diseases. If not addressed, this chronic inflammation can aggravate and/or lead to health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal disorders, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, and diabetes.

Diet and lifestyle play an important role in chronic inflammation. It is one of the simplest, yet most effective ways, to decrease your overall inflammation, protect your immune system, and make you a healthier you. Here’s what to do.

INCREASE YOUR VEGETABLES AND FRUIT

Colorful vegetables and fruit contain a variety of antiinflammatory properties. Many fruits and vegetables are beneficial, however green leafy vegetables, berries, cherries, and pomegranate are excellent choices for a healthy diet. Tropical fruits such as pineapple, mango, and bananas are higher in sugar and should be limited or avoided while treating inflammation.

CHOOSE WHOLE GRAINS AND LOW SUGAR FOODS

Intake of refined grains and simple sugars is associated with the risk of developing inflammatory mediated diseases such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Fructose, which is found in table sugar, high fructose corn syrup, and fruit juices can cause inflammation and hinder the healing process. These should be limited or avoided. It is best to eat complex carbohydrates that are unprocessed such as whole oats, whole rye, barley, and legumes.

GOOD FATS VS BAD FATS

Poly-unsaturated fats high in Omega-3 fatty acids provide anti-inflammatory benefits. The best sources include flaxseed oil, walnuts, and cold-water fish such as salmon.

Processed fats such as soybean oil, safflower oil, corn oil, and canola oil should be avoided. Avoid trans fats, which can be disguised in the form of shortening, margarine, and hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils. Always read labels.

HERBS AND SPICES

Powerful anti-inflammatory herbs and spices include turmeric, ginger, garlic, cinnamon, basil, rosemary, and thyme.

REDUCE YOUR TOXIC LOAD

Many industrial chemicals and pesticides can cause inflammation. When possible, choose organic foods and “green” personal care and cleaning products. EWG (Environmental Working Group) is a great resource. Learn more via ewg.org.

STRESS REDUCTION

Stress can be just as aggravating to the immune system as the foods we eat. Physical activity, yoga, nature, and plenty of sleep may be helpful ways to reduce stress, thus decreasing inflammation.

FOOD ALLERGIES AND SENSITIVITIES

Food allergies/sensitivities can often cause inflammation. Common foods that contribute are dairy products, eggs, gluten, and soy. A naturopathic physician can help you decide if food allergy elimination will be helpful for you.

Dr. Jenna Dye is a licensed naturopathic physician. Her role is to support the body’s foundation to restore and maintain optimal health. Together with her patients, this is achieved by identifying and removing barriers that may be impacting health while creating a healing environment. For more information visit drjennadye.com.

HOST FAMILY BECOME A BECOME A HOST FAMILY ExchangeMate is looking for loving families to host international students!

ExchangeMate is looking for loving families to host international students!

Provide a safe, warm and nurturing environment to your international student Provide loving parental guidance and support Makeyourstudentfeelaspartofthe family and encourage participation in family life EnsureanEnglish-speakingenvironment Provide a private bedroom to your student (fully furnished) Provide 2 balanced meals per day during the week and all 3 meals on weekends and holidays (students will buy their own lunch at school) Assist with occasional transportation Pass an interview and criminal background check

REQUIREMENTS TO HOST

BENEFITS

OF HOSTING Create lifelong international friendships - Introduceyourfamilytoanewlanguage,cultureand tradition without leaving home Grow closer as a family as you help your new - son/daughter learn more about your family values and beliefs - Increase cultural awareness in your home and community Give back and help make a difference in the life of an - international student - Receive 24/7 support from a wonderful team of local coordinators during your hosting experience Receive a monthly stipend per student you host.

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REQUIREMENTS TO HOST • Provide a safe, warm and nurturing BENEFITS OF HOSTING environment • Provide loving parental guidance and make your student feel as part of the family and encourage participation in family life • Ensure an English-speaking • Create lifelong international friendships • Introduce your family to a new language, culture and tradition without leaving home environment • Grow closer as a family as you help • Provide a private bedroom to your student (fully furnished) your new son/daughter learn more about your family values and beliefs • Provide 2 balanced meals per day • Increase cultural awareness in your during the week and all 3 meals on home and community weekends and holidays (students will buy their own lunch at school) • Receive 24/7 support from a wonderful team of local • Assist with occasional coordinators during your hosting transportation experience Receive a monthly • Pass an interview and criminal stipend per student you host. background check

TOP REASONS

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Over 10 years of experience placing students in host HIGHSCHOOL@EXCHANGEMATE.ORG KAREN DEHMLOW - (720) 271-0360 EXCHANGEMATE.ORG T O P 5 R E A S O N T O H O S T W I T H X C H A N G E M A T Full listing member at CSIET (Council on Standards for International Educational Travel) families Passionate and caring team members to support you in every step of the way Highest level of service quality in the industry (5-star google review and accredited by the Better Business Bureau – BBB) Be part of a loving and active community of host families and coordinators in your areaTO HOST WITH US E Over 10 years of experience placing students Highest level of service quality in the industry (5-star google review and BBB accredited) Passionate and caring team members to support you in every step of the way Be part of a loving and active community of host families and coordinators in your area

KAREN DEHMLOW (720) 271-0360 • EXCHANGEMATE.ORG HIGHSCHOOL@EXCHANGEMATE.ORG