OUCH! Inflammation: The Good, The Bad & How Turmeric Can Help

• Swelling: Increased permeability of capillaries allow cells to enter the affected tissue.

• Pain: Release of chemical mediators that assist the healing process can often irritate nerves. 

• Loss of function: Decreased motion is a sign the body is not working as it should be.

Chronic inflammation occurs when the immune system is overwhelmed by physical, environmental and mental stressors. The body goes into overdrive and begins to destroy both healthy and unhealthy cells, plus everything in between. Chronic inflammation symptoms are less severe but last longer; left untreated they can be life threatening.

How to Regulate Inflammation

Simple daily changes can address the root of inflammation; it is easy once you know what to do.

Reduce stress: The stress hormone cortisol regulates our inflammatory response; increased stress means more inflammation. Sleep and stress go hand in hand and cutting corners during sleep harms the body’s ability to repair itself. Focus on stress reduction by getting at least 8 hours of sleep, reducing technology time, staying active and practising low-impact activities such as yoga, meditation or swimming.

Reduce toxins: Toxins are present in our food, home and personal care products. Toxins are absorbed through the skin and digestive tract and increase pressure on our immune system. Reduce your body’s toxic load by purchasing organic foods, non-toxic cleaning and personal care products where possible; and ensure you are familiar with any allergies present.

Diet Matters

Poor dietary choices cause inflammation. Our bodies need vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to help them repair and recover. A diet low in refined and processed food and high in plant-based foods will give you an anti-inflammatory boost needed to get on the path to recovery.

Spices have long been used to assist the body’s inflammatory response and are a staple in many households. Ginger, cinnamon and turmeric are some of nature’s oldest and most effective herbal medicines. If there ever were a life-enhancing spice, turmeric is it. Incorporating turmeric into your diet can improve more than just the colour of your latte. Turmeric is recommended for a range of conditions as it works on many inflammatory pathways. Turmeric’s primary compound curcumin prevents the activation of the key inflammation mediator and therefore decreases the likelihood of developing chronic inflammation throughout the body. Adding this powerful plant to your diet is one of the best things you can do for your overall health and wellbeing.

Can Supplements Help?

Fish oil and krill oil both contain omega-3 fatty acids, known to reduce inflammation and promote tissue repair. Arthritis is the single greatest cause of disability in New Zealand and is closely linked to inflammation. If you are suffering from arthritis, a fish oil supplement may be beneficial.

Turmeric 15800 Complex eases fatigue, stiff joints and improves gastro-intestinal health. The active component curcumin is paired with Bioperine® for 20 times better absorption, and ginger, boswellia and ashwagandha for further inflammatory support. Promoting a range of health benefits for multiple health conditions.

Turmeric Extra Strength has been formulated for total body support. Clinically proven to begin working with 7 days Turmeric Extra Strength offers support for arthritic, cardiovascular, digestive, and nervous system disorders. Using a unique curcumin extract, advanced technology provides 46 times better absorption. Turmeric Extra Strength can support both acute and chronic inflammation.

Enhancing Food with Turmeric

Impress friends at your next BBQ this summer with this easy-to-make hummus; and enjoy knowing this recipe is as delicious as it is good for you.

Turmeric and Pumpkin Hummus

1 cup of cooked chickpeas
1 1/2 cups roasted butternut pumpkin puree
2 tbsp tahini or almond butter
Juice of one lemon
1 tbsp ground cumin
2 capsules of Good Health Turmeric Extra Strength
2 tbsp olive oil

Combine ingredients in a food processor until hummus becomes a desired texture. Season with Himalayan salt and freshly ground pepper. Sprinkle with lightly toasted chia seeds and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to serve. Stores in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.