At some point in our lives, all of us will more than likely experience inflammation in our bodies. It could be muscles, tendons, or joints, and it could be caused by a number of different things. Some inflammation is circumstantial (like a hard work out session) but sometimes it afflicts people for other reasons. However, it is not a negative thing. Inflammation is our body’s natural way to treat and protect itself. No matter the reason, inflammation in the body can be painful and needs to be managed.

Here are some tips to help you manage inflammation.

Apply Heat and Ice

Applying heat and ice to the inflammation can be extremely effective if done properly.  In general, you’ll want to alternate heat and ice to the inflamed part of the body. Apply heat for no more than 20 minutes and then apply ice for no more than 20 minutes, and repeating this cycle at least three times. This will help loosen muscles and joints and is a natural way to reduce inflammation.

Img: Inflammation by http://en.wikipedia.org/

Watch your Diet

Your diet has a lot to do with inflammation in your body. Foods that cause inflammation are refined sugars, grains and high fructose corn syrups. Try to avoid foods with these ingredients as much as possible. In general, eat whole foods and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Also, dehydration can cause inflammation. Make sure you are drinking enough water daily. In general, aim for at least eight glasses of water a day.

Stretch

Stretching is an exercise that often gets overlooked. However, stretching should be incorporated into your daily schedule. Yoga is a great exercise that incorporates balance and stretching. If you have never done yoga, consider signing up for a beginner’s class. Stretching not only helps with muscle tensions, but it decreases inflammation in your body. You can stretch anytime; it does not necessarily have to be before or after a work out.

Take an Anti-inflammatory

Over the counter medications such as Aleve and Advil function as anti-inflammatories. These medications work as reducing the inflammation in the body and should be taken in moderation when symptoms are present. There is a danger in relying on these medications too much as they can cause other health issues. Many people prefer all-natural supplements that work to reduce or eliminate inflammation, such as Reduloxin which includes nine natural nutrients to help your body fight inflammation at its source.

Relax Regularly

Stress not only affects your mind, it affects your body. There is a direct correlation between stress and inflammation in the body. Just remember: relaxing “looks” differently to everyone. Some relax by watching a movie, while others relax by taking a brisk walk with friends. Relaxing reduces inflammation in your body so do what you need to do to relax. In addition, do your best to cut out key stressors from your life. Stress negatively affects the body and aids in inflammation. If you can cut out stress, do so.

Inflammation will affect everyone at some point in their lives, but it can be managed with some practical tips. Practice these guidelines to manage your inflammation on your own.

Written by Nan Kathryn Fuchs, PhD