Lowered immunity. Indicated by frequent infections,
including colds and flu, and yeast and fungal infections
such as Candida. Asthma, allergies and other issues also
may be due to low immunity and chronic inflammation.
Hormonal imbalance.This can include many aspects of
the hormonal system, especially the adrenal stress hor-
mones, reducing your ability to cope with stress. Sex hor-
mones — estrogen, progesterone and testosterone — can
also be adversely affected, resulting in diminished sex
drive, reproductive function and muscle and bone health.
Reduced thyroid function can also result due to inhibi-
tion of thyroid-stimulating hormone.
Nervous-system imbalance. This includes increased
activity of the sympathetic nervous system, potentially
leading to increased tension, rising blood pressure, dis-
turbed blood sugar, anxiety or depression, or other
problems.
Digestive distress.Among the problems that can result
are poor digestion, gas formation, heartburn and various
inflammatory conditions such as colitis and ileitis. Poor
absorption of nutrients can be another result, creating an
entire series of potential problems throughout the body.
Chronic pain.Inflammation produces pain-stimulating
chemicals throughout the body. This also results in a
reduced pain threshold.
Cataracts.Another common condition that develops
with age is cataracts, and inflammation plays a major role
in the development of this eye disease. Chronic inflam-
mation has been shown to predispose healthy individu-
als to future risk of age-related cataracts.
Gingivitis and periodontal disease.These oral condi-
tions are also associated with inflammation, and may be
a silent cause of chronic bodywide inflammation.
