Sever depression is linked to inflammation of the brain

Inflammation is a normal process which protects against injury and infection and it typically shuts down after the body is healed. However, problem occurs when inflammation becomes chronic and doesn’t know how or when to stop.

Unlike inflammation of arthritis or an injury, brain inflammation is difficult to diagnose because it doesn’t cause pain

Symptoms of Chronic Brain Inflammation

Acute inflammation is caused by pathogens or injury, while chronic inflammation is primarily a result of bad lifestyle habits which fuel the inflammation response.  Chronic inflammation is associated with various problems, from allergies, asthma, colitis, sinusitis, and dermatitis to arthritis and chronic infections.

This can cause symptoms like lack of mental clarity, depression, memory loss, brain fog, slow mental processing, ADHD, and neurological diseases like Alzheimer`s and stroke.

Chronic Inflammation: A Surprising Cause of Depression

The widely held theory regarding depression  is that it is caused by low levels of serotonin and dopamine. So, the treatment involves use of antidepressants, based on this brain chemical model of the disease.

Another theory suggests that brain inflammation is the cause of depression, and the model is known as “cytokine model of depression.”

Cytokines are immune system messengers, some of which reduce inflammation while others fuel it.  Inflammatory cytokines change brain function and cause problems like impaired memory, lethargy, memory loss, bipolar disorder, increased risk of suicide, inability to focus, and more.

Health and lifestyle factors that increase the risk of stimulating the body produce brain inflammation include  head trauma, diabetes, asthma, heart disease, chronic stress, lack of exercise, high carbohydrate diet, exposure to environmental toxins, substance abuse, digestive disorders, gluten, and vitamin B deficiency.

Natural Ways to Control Brain Inflammation

1. Give Your Brain an Oil Change

Cut back on omega-6 fatty acids found in vegetable oils like canola, safflower, soy, and corn oil.  Replace them with organic coconut oil and extra virgin olive oil.

2. Eliminate Processed Carbohydrates That Contain Sugar and Wheat

The consumption of white sugar increases brain inflammation, slows thinking, and causes damage to brain cells. Chronic high blood glucose levels are associated with Alzheimer`s.

Use honey in the place of sugar, as it is an antiviral, antiseptic, antibiotic, and anti-inflammatory agent.  Wheat products are also detrimental to the brain, so eliminate them from your diet or at least limit their consumption.

3. Eat Anti-Inflammatory Flavonols

Flavonols are anti-inflammatory compounds which are found in foods and drinks like berries, chocolate, wine, beer, tea, and coffee.  Red wine is particularly beneficial, as it protects against diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.

4. Take Anti-Inflammatory Supplements

Some of the best anti-inflammatory supplements include:

• Fish oil
• Krill oil
• Curcumin
• Acetyl l-carnitine
• Vinpocetine

Other Anti-Inflammatory Lifestyle Adjustments

• Getting adequate sleep
• Getting at least half an hour of exercise daily
• Reducing stress