“If we can control inflammation, we can increase our healthy lifespan by 25%?”

According to research results from Duke University-National University of Singapore and published in the international academic journal Nature, blocking a specific protein (interleukin-11) that promotes inflammation can activate metabolism, make the body healthier, and extend lifespan by about 25%. This is the result of a mouse experiment. Dr. Cathy Slack (aging biologist) of the research team said, “Most research results on proteins, anti-aging, and rejuvenation have not reached clinical trials, but this research is likely to progress further.” Imperial College London in the UK and the University of Melbourne in Australia also participated in this study (Inhibition of IL-11 signaling extends mammalian healthspan and lifespan).

According to the American health media outlet Healthline, dietary changes are essential for reducing inflammation at home. Choosing foods low in sugar and trans fats and avoiding processed foods are helpful. Food can also help combat inflammation. Anti-inflammatory foods include berries and cherries, fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, broccoli, avocados, green tea, mushrooms like shiitake, spices like turmeric, ginger, and cloves, and tomatoes. Regular exercise, stress management, quitting smoking, treating and managing existing medical conditions, and treating inflammation are also essential. Foods that can cause chronic inflammation include sugar, refined carbohydrates, trans fats, and alcohol.

Inflammation can be divided into three types: acute inflammation (lasting up to two weeks), chronic inflammation (lasting more than six weeks), and subacute inflammation (lasting two to six weeks, a transitional stage between acute and chronic inflammation). Chronic inflammation is the root of all diseases and is closely related to autoimmune diseases and long-term stress. Common symptoms include body aches, persistent fatigue and insomnia, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders, gastrointestinal problems such as constipation, diarrhea, and acid reflux, unintentional weight gain or loss, frequent infections, and general autoimmune diseases (inflammatory disorders). Autoimmune diseases include rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and multiple sclerosis.

Diagnosing inflammation requires blood tests, serum proteins, and C-reactive protein (CRP). Colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy may also be performed to diagnose inflammatory gastrointestinal diseases. Medications include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). If signs of chronic inflammation appear, it's recommended to see a doctor immediately for treatment.