The link between aging and inflammation is well-established and is often referred to as “inflammaging.” This term describes the chronic, low-grade inflammation that tends to increase with age, even in the absence of infection or disease.
Key Points About the Link Between Aging and Inflammation:
🧬 1. Cellular and Immune System Changes
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As we age, the immune system becomes less efficient at fighting infections (immunosenescence) but becomes more prone to overreact, causing persistent inflammation.
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Old or damaged cells may not die off properly and instead secrete inflammatory chemicals (senescence-associated secretory phenotype, or SASP).
🔥 2. Chronic Inflammation Without Symptoms
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This low-level inflammation is not acute (like swelling from injury) but rather systemic and persistent.
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It silently contributes to the progression of age-related diseases like:
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Cardiovascular disease
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Type 2 diabetes
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Alzheimer’s disease
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Cancer
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Osteoporosis
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Frailty and muscle loss (sarcopenia)
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🥗 3. Lifestyle and Environmental Factors
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Diet high in sugar and processed foods
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Lack of physical activity
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Poor sleep
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Chronic stress
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Pollution or exposure to toxins
All of these can exacerbate inflammation as we age.
🛡️ 4. How to Combat Inflammaging
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Anti-inflammatory diet (rich in fruits, vegetables, omega-3s, whole grains)
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Regular exercise (especially moderate aerobic and strength training)
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Good sleep hygiene
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Stress management
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Maintaining a healthy weight
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Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol