! Do you have increased body fat?
! Do you perform weekly anaerobic exercise, such as
weight-lifting, hard training or competition?
! Do you perform regular repetitive activity (jogging,
cycling, walking, typing, etc.)?
Even if you check only one or two of the above items, it indicates
an increased chance of having chronic inflammation.
A simple blood test can confirm the presence of inflammation.
The C-reactive protein (CRP) test is the most accurate screen for
inflammation and can detect very low levels. This test can also predict
future risk of coronary heart disease and stroke even in otherwise
healthy individuals. The best suggestion is to have a CRP performed
regularly, when other blood tests are ordered. If the result is not nor-
mal, retest every six months until it’s normal. CRP levels should be
lower than 1.0 mg/L, which is the lowest risk of developing cardio-
vascular disease. Between 1.0 and 3.0 mg/L, a person has average risk
and CRP levels higher than 3.0 mg/L are associated with a high risk.
Other blood tests include the erythrocyte sedimentation rate
(ESR). This common blood test for inflammation can be performed
when blood is taken for other tests, or with a finger prick. A complete
blood count measures white blood cells and may also indicate inflam-
mation. Compare your results to the reference ranges given by the lab.
Diet and Inflammation
Many of the chemicals involved in both inflammation and anti-
inflammation are heavily influenced by your diet. This was discussed
in Chapter 10 and is reviewed here because of its importance. The
four items below can have a dramatic effect on reducing unwanted
inflammation.
- Balance your intake of dietary fats as discussed in
Chapter 10. To accomplish this it may be necessary to
supplement your diet with EPA from fish oil. - Make sure you have all the nutrients necessary for main-
taining balanced fats, including vitamins B6, E, C and
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