Inflammation Detox: Can You Snooze Your Way To Better Health?

Despite the huge strides the wellness industry has made over the last decade, the significance of sleep on our health is still frequently downplayed. While we acknowledge its benefits a lot more than we did, it’s often overshadowed by our emphasis on diet and exercise, presuming them to be more impactful on our well-being. However, emerging research is underscoring the vital role of sleep in regulating inflammation, a key factor in maintaining overall health.

Here’s the deal: Apparently a bunch of us out there aren’t getting the quality sleep we need, with nearly half of Brits admitting to lousy sleep habits. And guess what? This lack of shut-eye doesn’t just leave us feeling groggy; it also cranks up the inflammation levels in our bodies.

And speaking of inflammation, when it sticks around for the long haul, it can cause all sorts of trouble, from persistent health grumbles to major disease and illness. Experts believe it to be the root cause of a lot of issues. But even though we know this, a whopping 72% of people aren’t doing much to tackle inflammation head-on, which just keeps the cycle of feeling blah going.

Here’s the kicker: chronic inflammation isn’t just about feeling tired or achy; it can mess with our overall health and happiness in sneaky ways. So, while the symptoms might seem all over the place and not connected, they’re actually linked by one common culprit: inflammation throwing our bodies off balance without us even realising it.

Here are some things to look out for if you think you might be suffering from chronic inflammation…

Frequent Illnesses: Individuals experiencing chronic inflammation may find themselves falling ill more frequently than usual. This susceptibility to infections and illnesses reflects the compromised state of the immune system, which struggles to mount an effective defence against pathogens.

Hormonal Imbalances: For women, chronic inflammation can disrupt hormonal balance, leading to irregular menstrual cycles, exacerbated premenstrual symptoms and fertility issues. These hormonal fluctuations, driven by inflammation, can significantly impact reproductive health and overall quality of life.

Skin Issues: Chronic inflammation often manifests visibly through skin issues such as acne, eczema or psoriasis. These inflammatory skin conditions, characterised by redness, irritation and breakouts, underscore the systemic nature of inflammation and its outward effects on physical appearance.

Digestive Disturbances: Inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract can manifest as digestive issues, including bloating, constipation or diarrhoea. These symptoms may be indicative of underlying inflammation affecting gut health, exacerbating discomfort and impacting nutrient absorption.

Mood Swings and Cognitive Decline: Chronic inflammation can also influence mental health, contributing to mood swings, irritability and cognitive decline. Brain fog, memory problems and difficulty concentrating may arise as inflammation disrupts neural pathways and neurotransmitter function.

While lifestyle choices and diet play significant roles in inflammation, the impact of sleep cannot be overstated. But before you start piling on those lie-ins, know that studies indicate that oversleeping, exceeding 10 hours per night, can actually exacerbate inflammation, disrupting the body’s delicate balance. Who’d have thought?

To combat inflammation effectively, it’s crucial to prioritise quality sleep. Dr. Miriam Ferrer emphasises the importance of maintaining a healthy sleep routine, alongside dietary adjustments and stress management strategies. Aligning with the body’s natural circadian rhythm, characterised by consistent sleep patterns, helps regulate inflammation levels and promotes overall well-being.

Supplements like turmeric and other lifestyle adjustments recommended by experts such as Aidan Goggins offer additional support in the fight against inflammation. From adding lots of spices to your diet, reducing stress and eliminating HPF (highly processed foods), these practical tips complement the overarching goal of promoting restorative sleep and reducing inflammation burden.

By recognising the profound impact of sleep on inflammation and adopting proactive measures to enhance sleep quality, individuals can take significant strides towards better health outcomes.