Inflammation is a type of biological response created by the immune system to protect the body from infection, injury, and disease. However, if inflammation becomes chronic, it can cause various diseases. Inflammation has a significant impact on health and lifespan. Controlling inflammation can lead to a healthy and long life.

According to research published in the international scientific journal Nature, a study involving Duke-NUS Medical School in Singapore and other institutions found that blocking a specific protein that promotes inflammation (interleukin-11) leads to increased metabolism, improved health, and an approximately 25% increase in lifespan. This was demonstrated through experiments on mice. Dr. Kashi Slack, a biogerontologist on the research team, stated, "Most of the research results on proteins related to anti-aging and rejuvenation have not progressed to clinical trials, but this study is more likely to advance further." The study (Inhibition of IL-11 signalling extends mammalian healthspan and lifespan) also involved Imperial College London in the UK and the University of Melbourne in Australia.

According to the American health media 'Healthline', improving diet is necessary as a home remedy to reduce inflammation. Choosing foods low in sugar and trans fats and avoiding processed foods can be helpful. You can also fight inflammation through food. Anti-inflammatory foods such as berries and cherries, fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, broccoli, avocados, green tea, mushrooms like shiitake, spices such as turmeric, ginger, and cloves, and tomatoes are beneficial in reducing inflammation. Regular exercise, stress management, quitting smoking, treatment and management of existing diseases, and inflammation therapy are also necessary. Foods that can cause chronic inflammation include sugar, refined carbohydrates, trans fats, and alcohol.

 

Inflammation can be classified into three types: acute inflammation (lasting up to 2 weeks), chronic inflammation (lasting more than 6 weeks), and subacute inflammation (lasting 2 to 6 weeks, an intermediate stage between acute and chronic). Chronic inflammation is the root cause of many diseases. It is closely related to autoimmune diseases and prolonged stress. Common symptoms include body pain, persistent fatigue and insomnia, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, gastrointestinal issues such as constipation, diarrhea, and acid reflux, unintended weight gain or loss, frequent infections, and general autoimmune diseases (inflammatory conditions). Autoimmune diseases include rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and multiple sclerosis.

 

For the diagnosis of inflammation, tests such as blood tests, serum protein, and C-reactive protein (CRP) are necessary. To diagnose inflammatory gastrointestinal diseases, examinations such as colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy may also be performed. Medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be used. If signs of chronic inflammation appear, it is advisable to see a doctor promptly for treatment.