Low-grade inflammation – How to reduce inflammation through lifestyle choices
Low-grade inflammation is a phenomenon that has increasingly gained attention in health and wellness discussions in recent years. It is a stealthy condition that can easily go unnoticed without blood tests. In this article, we explain what low-grade inflammation is, how it can be identified, and most importantly, how it can be prevented.
Low-grade inflammation is a silent and long-term inflammatory state in the body that often develops gradually and unnoticed. It usually does not manifest in daily life but, over time, can increase the risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and even Alzheimer’s disease. Low-grade inflammation is not a disease itself, but it is a sign of an imbalance in the body that can impair health in the long run. Detecting and managing it is crucial to prevent the development of more serious illnesses.
Can low-grade inflammation be identified without testing?
Low-grade or silent inflammation, as the name suggests, is silent and often completely asymptomatic, making it challenging to detect without blood tests. However, there are some indirect signs and assessment methods that may indicate the possibility of inflammation:
Evaluation of lifestyle and risk factors. For example, being overweight, especially abdominal obesity, is strongly associated with low-grade inflammation. Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and an unhealthy diet can also increase the risk of inflammation. Additionally, stress and sleep deprivation are known contributors to inflammation.
Body composition analysis. Measuring body fat percentage, particularly visceral fat (fat around internal organs), can provide clues about inflammation risk, as visceral fat promotes inflammation. Body composition analysis can be easily done with expertise through Bodymaja.
Monitoring the effects of lifestyle changes. If changes in diet, exercise, or stress management improve overall well-being and energy levels, it may indirectly indicate a reduction in inflammation. However, certainty can only be achieved through laboratory tests.
High-sensitivity CRP measures inflammation in the body
Inflammation in the body is assessed using a high-sensitivity CRP (C-reactive protein) test. High-sensitivity CRP indicates low-grade inflammation when there is no other acute infection or inflammation in the body. This test is particularly useful for detecting silent inflammation in individuals with other risk factors, such as abdominal obesity, or a family history of cardiovascular diseases or diabetes. High-sensitivity CRP measurement is included in, for example, the Puhti laboratory package.
Prevent low-grade inflammation with lifestyle changes!
It is possible to effectively influence silent inflammation in the body by making changes to your lifestyle. Below are our tips for anti-inflammatory habits:
Avoid high glycemic index foods (e.g., white flour, sugar, and rice).
Avoid highly processed foods and ready-made meals.
Eat plenty of vegetables, fruits, greens, and local berries.
Use lower cooking temperatures; avoid charring food.
Opt for lean chicken or turkey and plant-based proteins like lentils, beans, chickpeas, and other legumes, as well as whole grains.
Avoid alcohol consumption and smoking.
Focus on recovery and stress management.
If you want to find out whether your body has low-grade inflammation, order the Puhti laboratory package and visit your nearest Mehiläinen laboratory for testing after placing your order. Blood tests will provide a clear picture of your health and help you make necessary lifestyle changes. Take care of yourself – even small changes can make a big difference!
You can choose a ready-made test package, include additional tests or plan your own set of tests. All the tests can be ordered without a doctor’s referral.
Visit a location
Sample-taking is available at Mehiläinen laboratories in over 75 locations and self-measurement points in 24 shopping centers across Finland. The test itself takes only a few minutes.
See the results in My Journal
You can view your results quickly and easily on the Oma Puhti report. You will get an easy-to-read report of your results.
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