Life would not be possible without inflammation
As inflammation is associated with chronic diseases such as diabetes, arthritis, and hypertension, it’s no surprise that it’s thought of in a negative way.
But, did you know? Life would not be possible without inflammation.
Ever since life evolved on earth, it has been necessary for organisms to defend themselves.
How does inflammation help us?
A highly complex system has evolved over millions of years to protect us against viruses, bacteria and all the other pathogens – usually without us even noticing – known as the immune system.
Say you get a paper cut.
What looks like a small cut at first glance, triggers a real war at molecular level.
First, the blood flow to the wounded area is increased and a whole army of immune cells – better known as white blood cells – sets out to fight the invader…
Gradually, more and more different immune cells reach the battlefield.
This process is called inflammation and is visible as swelling, redness and increased temperature in the affected area. This pro-inflammatory process also partially destroys the body’s own tissue, which is why it’s important that the process is limited in time and subsides as soon as the intruder has been successfully fought off.
After that the opposite process kicks in clearing battlefield, leading to healing of the affected tissue.
This finely tuned balance between initial pro-inflammatory signaling and anti-inflammatory healing processes typically takes a couple of days and leads to complete recovery of the affected area.
It’s acute inflammation – temporary – and goes away once it’s done its job. It’s good inflammation.
But what’s the inflammation that has a darker reputation?
Chronic low-grade inflammation.
This is different and it persists for weeks, months or even years.
Although chronic low-grade inflammation is weaker in intensity, it is associated with many diseases such as arthritis, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.
Chronic inflammation is characterised by continuous activation of pro-inflammatory signaling pathways leading to a disruption of physiological processes and a destruction of the affected tissue. Associated with conditions like arthritis, where the chronic inflammation leads to a breakdown of the cartilage layer in joints.
Chronic Inflammation – what can you do?
Recent research suggests that there are different factors contributing to a chronic inflammation, and diet seems to play a major role.
Poor dietary habits, such as a diet rich in saturated fatty acid and sugar, are considered to initiate pro-inflammatory signaling (102)
Good dietary habits, such as eating foods that are rich in secondary plant metabolites and unsaturated fatty acids, such as the Mediterranean diet, are associated with anti-inflammatory properties and a lower risk to develop metabolic disorders.
The reason for these anti-inflammatory properties is thought to be the high content of polyphenols, a subclass of secondary plant metabolites.
The Power of Plants to Fight the Good Fight
Numerous studies have attributed a broad range of biological activities to polyphenols including anti-inflammatory, immune-modulatory and antioxidant actions (47). On this basis it is not surprising that secondary plant metabolites have been used therapeutically since ancient times, and that their molecular structures are the basis of many modern pharmaceuticals.
Due to their multiple health promoting effects, high availability and safety, polyphenols are increasingly investigated as supplements to battle metabolic diseases (52). Of these, curcumin and Boswellia serrata extract have been well researched for their anti-inflammatory properties and efficacy for arthritis. (“Efficacy of Curcumin and Boswellia for Knee Osteoarthritis: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis”).
There is strong scientific evidence that specific secondary plant metabolites, for example polyphenols, have strong anti-inflammatory properties and might be beneficial in chronic inflammatory states, such as arthritis.
What does this have to do with iüLabs, namely iüMove?
57% felt a difference in 2 weeks when taking iüMove to support their joint health.
iüMove is an innovative supplement drink designed for anyone who experiences pain, stiffness, and mobility problems in their joints.
This powerful natural drink targets inflammation and oxidative stress in your joints and support your overall health and wellbeing – helping your system repair and thrive. With curcumin, boswelia serrata, gingerol, and more antioxidant components for the optimal impact.
Any questions about iüMove?
Email Dr Dominik on hello(AT)iulabs.co
