Why Inflammation Might Be the Root of Your Fatigue, Bloating, or Brain Fog

Inflammation has a way of sneaking into just about every health conversation.

High cholesterol? ➡️ Often linked to inflammation.
Digestive issues? ➡️ Inflammation may be at play.
Trouble sleeping? ➡️ You guessed it. Inflammation again.

What Is Inflammation?

Inflammation isn’t always bad.
Short-term (or acute) inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury or infection. It helps you heal.

The problem arises when inflammation becomes chronic. It acts like a slow-burning fire, quietly disrupting systems in the background and contributing to a wide range of symptoms and conditions.

Many chronic health concerns such as fatigue, joint pain, brain fog, and hormone imbalances can be linked to this kind of ongoing inflammation.


Common Causes of Chronic Inflammation

  • Diet: Frequent intake of refined sugar, processed oils, and nutrient-poor foods

  • Stress: Ongoing mental and emotional stress increases inflammatory markers

  • Gut Health: Issues like leaky gut or microbial imbalance in the gut

  • Environmental Factors: Exposure to toxins, allergens, or poor air quality

  • Lack of Sleep or Movement: Insufficient rest or a sedentary lifestyle can contribute


Testing for Inflammation*

  • CRP (C-Reactive Protein): A general marker of inflammation. Elevated levels may suggest the body is in a heightened inflammatory state.

  • Homocysteine: High levels are associated with cardiovascular inflammation and cognitive decline.

  • Uric Acid: Elevated levels may indicate inflammation and increased cardiovascular risk

*These aren’t the only markers available, but they offer a useful starting point for understanding what’s happening in the body.


Everyday Ways to Lower Inflammation

Choose Anti-Inflammatory Foods

  • Focus on colorful fruits and vegetables for antioxidant support

  • Include healthy fats like olive oil, avocados, and omega-3-rich options (salmon, walnuts, flaxseed)

  • Limit refined sugars, fried foods, and highly processed oils


Use Herbs and Spices with Anti-Inflammatory Benefits

  • Turmeric: Contains curcumin, which supports joint comfort and inflammation response

  • Ginger: May reduce muscle soreness and overall inflammation

  • Cinnamon: Offers antioxidant support and may help regulate blood sugar


Keep Your Body Moving

  • Gentle, regular movement like walking or yoga can help calm inflammation.

  • Overtraining without adequate recovery can have the opposite effect, so be mindful of your energy levels.


Support Stress Resilience

  • Try mindfulness tools like journaling, breathwork, or meditation

  • Consider adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha, which support the body’s stress response

  • See my other blog post for more on calming herbs


Protect Your Sleep

  • Aim for 7 to 8 hours of quality rest

  • Create a screen-free wind-down routine before bed

  • More sleep support tips are available here


Addressing chronic inflammation is a little like tending to embers before they become flames.

Small, consistent steps such as eating nutrient-dense meals, managing stress, and making space for rest can make a big difference over time.

Your body is designed to heal. With the right support, it can find balance again.


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