Inflammation is the body’s inherent response mechanism, crucial for our survival as it helps to fend off hostile microbes and mend damaged tissue. However, not all inflammation is beneficial. While acute inflammation arises as a rapid response to injury or infection, presenting symptoms such as redness, warmth, swelling, and pain, chronic inflammation is less obvious and more insidious. Chronic inflammation can persist without an apparent cause, contributing to various health conditions including diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.

To manage inflammation, one can adopt an anti-inflammatory diet, incorporating foods like tomatoes, olive oil, green leafy vegetables, nuts, and fatty fish, which are known to fight inflammation. Understanding the distinction between acute and chronic inflammation is vital, as chronic inflammation has been associated with numerous chronic diseases and is influenced by factors like obesity, smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle.

For more detailed information on the nature of inflammation and its effects on health, explore the resources provided by Harvard Health. They offer a comprehensive guide on why inflammation can be dangerous, as well as insights on foods that fight inflammation. To understand more about acute and chronic inflammation, click here, and for an in-depth look at chronic inflammation, refer to this article. Additionally, you can read about the broader topic of inflammation on Harvard Health’s inflammation page.