Inflammation may be harming your gut health.

Heres what it’s possible for you to do about it.

Illustration: Michela Buttignol.

Animation: Cassie Basford.

Inflammation is your bodys natural defense against illness, injury and stress.

Keep reading to learn how inflammation can harm your gut health and what you might do to prevent it.

What Is Inflammation?

There are two types of inflammation:acute and chronic.

Acute inflammation is your body’s quick and natural reaction to harmful things like infections or injuries.

It’s a way for your body to defend itself and start healing immediately.

Acute inflammation is a good thing.Chronic inflammation, however, can be harmful to your health.

Chronic inflammation refers to lower-grade inflammation that persists for prolonged periods from many months to several years.

It isnt usually accompanied by any specific symptoms, so it can be hard to notice.

Does Inflammation Harm Your Gut Health?

She explains that gut health is also related to mental health and metabolic conditions such as obesity and diabetes.

Inflammation can negatively affect your gut health both in the short term and long term.

This is your bodys way of healing from whatever caused the inflammation.

Reducing chronic inflammation can help keep your gut healthy and improve your overall health and well-being.

Theyre packed with antioxidants and phytochemicals that help fight inflammation, says Conlon.

Theseomega-3 fatty acid-rich foodshelp produce compounds that can help lower inflammation and improve gut health.

Reduce Stress

One of the most overlooked ways to reduce inflammation is reducing stress, Conlon tellsEatingWell.

Conlon suggests regular physical activity, practicing mindfulness and working with mental health professionals to manage stress.

But when inflammation becomes chronic, it can have harmful effects on your body, including your gut health.

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