Inflammation
I wrote in this space about three years ago concerning “inflammation” with respect to arthritis (see “Exercise and Arthritis”). Indeed, although exercise can actually cause inflammation when it is “overdone”, inflammation in and of itself is now considered a possible marker for the presence of some diseases. Now, that doesn’t mean that exercise CAUSES disease (for all you non-exercising rationalizers out there). Indeed, regular and properly performed exercise has been shown to assist in keeping inflammation to a lower level and, therefore, may help to prevent disease. But, as I pointed out in the above-cited article, the increased presence in the blood of a substance known as C-reactive protein (or CRP) is a marker for and associated with many different illnesses. In reality, we all, at some time or another, have different levels of “systemic” inflammation present in our bodies. This is different from “acute” inflammation associated, for example, with joint pain and swelling.
CRP has been shown to be a marker for many diseases such as coronary artery disease (a common precursor for heart attacks and strokes), most forms of cancer, Alzheimer’s disease and diabetes. This is probably why there are now so many anti-inflammatory drugs on the market. So what is one to do to prevent the encroachment of inflammation or, at least, keep the level of inflammation at a minimum? Well, it’s not as mysterious as one might think. For starters, a lower calorie eating plan or “diet” can help to keep chronic systemic inflammation at bay. As an example, obesity has been linked to higher levels of CRP so a reduction in fat weight may help to reduce this “biomarker” for inflammation and disease. Additionally, keeping a lid on highly processed foods, saturated fats and even refined sugar can greatly reduce levels of CRP. Smoking (no surprise there) is also a trigger for an inflammatory response by the body that essentially begins as an inflammation of the lining of the lungs.
But there is one “medicine” that is extremely effective against the occurrence of this systemic inflammation. Once again, exercise IS medicine! In this case, regular exercise of sufficient intensity is actually PREVENTIVE medicine. By encouraging blood flow to the cells and, thereby, increasing increasing oxygen to the cells, exercise can actually help to REDUCE systemic inflammation. Of course, after each “bout” of exercise, inflammation levels in the blood will rise slightly, but, over time, CRP levels in the blood can actually decrease and systemic inflammation can be reduced or effectively controlled. And less inflammation appears to be a great way to reduce the incidence of many chronic diseases. As always, see your doctor before beginning any exercise program especially if you have a history of high CRP levels in your blood.
I’m Dr. Paul Kennedy and that’s the “Be Fit, Stay Fit” Topic of the Week. Good luck with YOUR program. I KNOW you can do it!
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