Inflammation serves a purpose. It is the body’s warning that something is amiss. Acute inflammation will present with pain, heat, redness, swelling and loss of function—think sudden injury, In this case RICE applies: Rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Conversely, chronic inflammation is long-term and requires individual awareness.
How does one know they have this type of inflammation? Look at the skin for signs of premature aging, hyperpigmentation, psoriasis, rosacea and eczema. One should not ignore these symptoms because this type of inflammation is a precursor for internal damage that leads to joint pain, diabetes, heart and brain diseases.
When it comes to the skin, certain aggressive skin care treatments trigger acute inflammation that in turn initiates a body’s healing response. For skin care, this means new, stronger skin. After choosing an aggressive skin care treatment, it is important to nourish the skin with an appropriate skin care regiment. The dermatologist doing these types of treatments will offer a pharmaceutical skin care line that will probably include peptides. Different peptides tell skin cells what to repair.
The consumer however must also adapt with changes to the diet. This includes adding anti-inflammatory foods. An antioxidant rich, low inflammatory diet will include vitamins A, C, E as well as bioflavonoids and polyphenols: Think rich colors.
Carrots, kale, spinach, pumpkin, and cantaloupe have Vitamin A. Broccoli, brussel sprouts, and citrus have vitamin C. Oils from olives, walnuts and wheat germ contain vitamin E, as do oats, tomatoes and carrots. Citrus, berries, onions, tea, red wine, and dark chocolate contain bioflavonoids. Peanuts and pomegranates are examples of foods containing polyphenols.
Sun exposure, stress, and smoking also contribute to premature aging. Protect the skin on the outside by using a skin appropriate cleansing and moisturizing system as well as the daily use of SPF 30.
Do not ignore visible signs of inflammation. Whether a nutritionist or physician, seek out a professional help for any visible signs of inflammation.