Inflammation is the root cause of so many of our health problems, but often we think inflammation only hurts us in ways we can see and feel physically. We know sore joints and muscles are often due to inflammation, and the discomfort after we eat foods we are sensitive too is often caused by inflammation. But sometimes the most damaging inflammation is what we can’t see or feel physically.
For example, researchers are now discovering that a major cause of mood disorders, especially depression, is a result of inflamed brain tissue!
The scary thing is that depressed people reach for antidepressants before or without knowing this and continue the same behaviors that continue to cause inflammation, and never get to the root of the problem. That’s why 30-60% of depressed patients are not responsive to antidepressants, according to the World Health Organization.
Worst of all, depressed people often blame themselves or feel incapable or inferior for not being able to master their mood – like they have some personality flaw. Most of the time, this just is not the case. If they only knew that changing a few simple lifestyle and nutrition habits could go a long way in restoring balance to their neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, in addition to reducing inflammation of the brain.
What causes brain inflammation? The same things that cause inflammation everywhere else in the body: stress, environmental toxins, sugar, parasites, hidden infections, the wrong types of dietary fats (like too much Omega 6 fats or trans-fats), a leaky gut that allows undigested proteins into the bloodstream, and foods that trigger an auto-immune response.
Another reason to pay attention if you suffer from depression is that if your brain is suffering from inflammation, that means that you probably have systemic inflammation that could lead to other life-threatening or chronic health problems like arthritis, heart disease, diabetes and more.
There is a lot of information on how to reduce inflammation, but its best to consult a naturopathic physician to pinpoint what specific factors are causing inflammation in your case so that you can get the best and fastest results, and knock out your symptoms quickly.
Winter time is when depressed people can suffer the most. If you feel depressed, please come in for a check-up. It’s not your fault and there are many simple protocols we can do together to get your joy and enthusiasm for life back!
This Month's Vita-Mini: Vitamin R = Rest & Relaxation
Everybody today seems so busy, meanwhile our culture drives us to push our bodies to their limits. But what is the toll on our health?
Physical stress, like other forms of stress, can be hard on the body. When we miss out on sleep, are constantly moving, thinking, and working, it means our cells and internal communication system are always “on.” We need to turn off for a while, rest and relax, so that our cells can detox and repair and our brain and bodies can recharge.
Sleep also triggers the hormones that govern growth, appetite and muscle repair. So if you are trying to lose weight or build fitness, period of rest are just as important as diet and exercise. Lack of sleep doesn’t just make you tired and crabby, it puts you at a higher risk for heart disease, diabetes, obesity, headaches and depression.
Even if you can’t sleep, just laying down for a break or sitting quietly and relaxing can be so restorative. Take a look at your life and be honest: are you pushing yourself too hard? At some point, pushing too hard can actually send you backwards, so strive for balance. Add more vitamin “R” to your life!
Women – Mark Your Calendar and Join Me at this Exciting Health and Self-Care Expo!
WHEN: Saturday, February 2nd, 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
WHERE: Hilton Garden Inn of St. Charles ,4070 East Main Street
COST: $12 – All proceeds go to Lazarus House! (tickets here or at the door)
A fun ladies’ day out for pampering and self-care! Enjoy chair massage, raffle prizes, food, educational mini-seminars, beauty tips, tax tips and more from our vendors. Bring a friend, your sister or your Mom! See you there!
