Have you ever twisted your ankle or been bitten by an unfamiliar insect while travelling abroad? In those moments, you likely experienced inflammation. This natural response of the body usually occurs after an injury, infection, or even an intense workout. But did you know that inflammation in our body is not always just a temporary reaction, and that it actually increases as we age?
This is where the phenomenon of inflammaging comes in. It contributes to faster skin ageing, a higher risk of disease and a decline in overall vitality. But there is no need to worry.
With small changes in diet, physical activity, lifestyle and skincare it is possible to reduce inflammation and slow down its impact on the body and overall wellbeing.
What is inflammaging
Inflammaging is a state of chronic low grade inflammation that develops as the body ages. With age, inflammation in the body gradually increases and becomes persistent even when it is not directly linked to injury or infection.
This ongoing inflammation affects many body systems and over time contributes to faster ageing and an increased risk of various diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease and other chronic conditions.
Inflammaging results from a combination of genetic factors, environmental influences and lifestyle. Factors such as poor diet, lack of physical activity, stress and exposure to pollutants can accelerate its development. The body begins to experience continuous inflammation that weakens the immune system, damages cells and tissues and leads to the onset of many age related diseases.
What causes inflammaging
Inflammaging is the result of various factors that usually present as:
- Chronic stress: when the body is exposed to stress for too long, inflammatory processes are triggered that weaken the immune system and damage cells. Prolonged stress raises cortisol levels, a hormone that promotes inflammation and accelerates ageing.
- Unbalanced diet: a diet high in processed foods, sugars and unhealthy fats can increase inflammation in the body. Excessive intake of sugar and processed foods raises oxidative stress, which triggers inflammatory responses and accelerates the ageing of both skin and body.
- Lack of physical activity: it is often said that movement is the key to health. A sedentary lifestyle contributes to the accumulation of inflammatory markers in the body, whereas exercise supports circulation and promotes cell regeneration.
- Genetic predisposition: some people are genetically more prone to inflammatory processes. This makes them more susceptible to chronic inflammation, which can accelerate ageing and increase the risk of disease.
- Poor sleep quality: good quality sleep is essential for body regeneration. When we do not sleep enough or our sleep is interrupted, inflammatory markers accumulate, weakening the immune system. Tip: if you are experiencing sleep issues, we recommend CBD Oil Amber, which has been shown to ease insomnia and improve sleep quality.
- Exposure to toxins: long term exposure to toxins increases oxidative stress, leading to cell and tissue damage and a weakened immune system.
Symptoms of inflammaging
The symptoms of inflammaging can vary widely, but they all have one thing in common: they negatively affect overall health and wellbeing.
One of the first signs is often increased skin sensitivity. Because cell renewal slows down, the skin becomes red, dry, or irritated. Chronic inflammation also reduces collagen production, which leads to loss of elasticity, the formation of wrinkles, and sagging.
Persistent inflammation can also cause joint pain and stiffness. Many people experience fatigue and low energy because the body is constantly reacting to inflammatory processes that drain its resources. All of this increases the risk of numerous chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, arthritis, and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.
How to overcome inflammaging
The first and most important step is to let go of harmful habits. Continuing with them greatly reduces the body’s ability to repair and recover. The next step is to introduce new, positive habits into your daily routine that can help stop and even reverse the damage caused by inflammatory processes.
It is important to:
- Adjust your diet and lifestyle
- Eat anti inflammatory foods such as salmon, flaxseeds, walnuts, vegetables, berries, and spices like turmeric
- Limit sugar and processed foods
- Drink at least two litres of water a day, as regular hydration helps flush toxins from the body
- Stay physically active for at least 30 minutes each day
- Manage stress with meditation, breathing exercises, or relaxation techniques
- Ensure at least seven hours of sleep per night, as this is when the body regenerates and reduces inflammation
- Quit smoking
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- Choose skincare products rich in antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, green tea, CBD, and plant extracts to protect against environmental stressors. We recommend the Replenishing Antioxidant Face Oil, with its unique blend of nutrient rich natural oils and antioxidants that nourish the skin and keep it optimally hydrated and supple.
Replenishing Antioxidant Face Oil 30 ml
An indulgent face oil rich in skin-conditioning omegas, superfoods, and antioxidants. It helps strengthen and restore the skin whi.. Details
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- Be consistent with hydrating care by using high quality moisturising products and serums that keep the skin hydrated and protect it against inflammation. Two excellent choices are the Moisturising Bright Essence, which delivers deep hydration, and the Skin Perfection Azelaic Serum, which works against pigmentation spots, reduces redness, and calms sensitive skin.
Moisturising Bright Essence 100 ml
A lightweight hydrating serum that delivers deep-level hydration, plumps, and brightens the appearance of the skin while boosting .. Details
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Skin Perfection Azelaic Serum 30 ml
This skin-perfecting serum clarifies uneven tone, reduces the appearance of redness, dark spots, breakouts, and hyperpigmentation,.. Details
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- Avoid harsh ingredients and select products that are free from alcohol, sulphates, or irritating chemicals.
- Even during the winter months, use a sunscreen such as the Mineral Shield Face Sunscreen SPF 30, which prevents premature skin ageing and strengthens the skin’s natural defence.
Mineral Shield Face Sunscreen SPF 30, 50 ml
A mineral-based face sunscreen SPF 30 ensures effective UVA/UVB protection. A lightweight sun shield with invisible finish protect.. Details
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Inflammaging is something that can be reduced with a healthy lifestyle. With balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and effective stress management, you can successfully slow down the ageing process and improve overall quality of life.
Sources:
https://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/how-to-reduce-inflammation-as-you-age
https://www.brownhealth.org/be-well/inflammaging-what-you-should-know-about-inflammation-and-aging
Posted by Barbara Novak on date , updated on .
