Who would have thought that the difference in sexes would play a role in our bodies inflammatory response?
A woman’s immune system tends to be more reactive to changes in estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, all of which influence immune activation and inflammation because a womans immune system must be capable of supporting new life during pregnancy. This means that a woman’s immune system is potentially more sensitive to things that she is exposed to in her surrounding environment than males – ouch! Toxins, chemicals, chronic infections, and injuries can all trigger an immune alarm response, leading to inflammation.
So how do you know you have inflammation? Here are some subtle signs that may suggest you could be inflamed even if you don’t realize it.
- Irregular menstrual periods
- A particularly difficult time transitioning to menopause
- Frequent headaches
- Depression or depressive feelings
- Mood swings
- Anxiety
- Joint pain
- Sleep disturbances
- Skin rashes
If you’ve noticed any of these symptoms, don’t be alarmed. The good news is that there are lifestyle changes that women can make to ease inflammation and the increased health risks that come with it. Food for example, has a powerful impact on the body’s inflammatory pathways, particularly for women.
A diet built around fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish (particularly ones high in omega-3 fatty acids), extra-virgin olive oil, beans, and nuts are packed with phytochemicals—active compounds found in plants that help your immune system have an appropriate response to toxins, infection, injury, and other causes of inflammation.
Try to steer clear of foods such as fried foods, sugary foods, ultra-processed foods, and low-fiber foods will also help balance and restore your immune function.
Till next time!
