Inflammaging

CONCERN

Inflammaging is the term used to describe low-level, ongoing inflammation that builds up in the body as we age. Unlike short-term inflammation that helps us heal from illness or injury, inflammaging is long-lasting and often invisible, gradually affecting how the body functions. It is now understood to play a major role in how we age and is linked to common age-related conditions. 

This kind of inflammation happens for many reasons. Over time, cells can become damaged or less efficient, and the immune system may become overactive, even when there’s no infection. Factors like stress, a poor diet, low activity levels, exposure to pollution, and long-term infections can also contribute to this chronic inflammation. 

As the immune system ages, a process called immunosenescence, it becomes less balanced. This can lead to slower healing and higher levels of inflammation in the body, increasing the risk of issues like heart disease, insulin resistance, and memory problems. 

Gut health is closely connected to inflammation. The gut microbiome, which is made up of trillions of helpful bacteria, helps support the immune system, digestion, and the gut lining. As we get older, the diversity of these bacteria often declines, and the gut barrier can become weaker. This may allow small particles from the gut to enter the bloodstream, triggering inflammation. Supporting gut health through a balanced diet, fibre, and specific supplements can help keep this in check. 

Inflammaging is also linked to rising levels of molecules in the body called cytokines, as well as increased oxidative stress and reduced energy production in cells. All of these can speed up ageing and reduce the body’s ability to repair itself. 

There are many lifestyle changes that may help reduce this type of inflammation. A diet rich in plants, healthy fats, and antioxidants can support the body’s natural defences. Regular exercise, good sleep, and managing stress also play an important role. Supporting gut health with probiotics or fermented foods may further help reduce inflammation. 

In addition to these strategies, emerging research supports other approaches. Red light therapy may help reduce inflammation and support cell repair. Cold exposure, such as cryotherapy, has been shown to lower certain inflammatory markers. Supplements such as NAD⁺ precursors and C15:0 fatty acid are also being studied for their potential to support healthy ageing and lower inflammation in the body. 

Testing tools like biological age analysis and gut microbiome assessments can offer helpful insights into your current health status. These results may support a more personalised wellness plan and help track the effects of lifestyle changes over time. 

Sources:

Franceschi C, et al. Inflammaging and ‘Garb-aging’. Trends Endocrinol Metab. 2017;28(3):199–212. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27789101/  
Fulop T, et al. The integration of inflammaging in age-related diseases. Seminars in Immunology, Volume 40, 2018, Pages 17-35. Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1044532318300228  

Gosh T, et al. The gut microbiome as a modulator of healthy ageing. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2022 Sep;19(9):565-584. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35468952/  

Hamblin MR. Mechanisms and applications of the anti-inflammatory effects of photobiomodulation. AIMS Biophysics. 2017;4(3):337–361. Available at: https://www.aimspress.com/article/10.3934/biophy.2017.3.337  

Venn-Watson S * Schork N. Pentadecanoic Acid (C15:0), an Essential Fatty Acid, Shares Clinically Relevant Cell-Based Activities with Leading Longevity-Enhancing Compounds. Nutrients. . 2023 Oct 30;15(21):4607. doi: 10.3390/nu15214607 

Yaku K et al. NAD metabolism: Implications in aging and longevity. Ageing Res Rev. 2018;47:1–17. Available at: NAD metabolism: Implications in aging and longevity – PubMed 

Disclaimer: 
This content is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individual results may vary. Please consult a qualified professional before making healthcare or treatment decisions.