Chronic Inflammation: The Sneaky Culprit Behind Your Low Energy and Digestive Woes
Do you spend way too much time in the bathroom, either racing there because of diarrhea or sitting there wondering if your digestive system has forgotten how to function? Or maybe you’re stuck in the middle, feeling bloated and uncomfortable, wishing your gut would just cooperate for once. And on top of that, does your energy feel like it’s on a rollercoaster—some days you’re dragging yourself out of bed, other days you’re crashing by the afternoon?
If this sounds familiar, chronic inflammation might be the uninvited guest causing all this digestive drama and low-energy chaos. Let's unpack how this sneaky culprit is likely at the root of both your stomach struggles and energy dips—and what you can do about it.
So, What Exactly is Inflammation?
Inflammation is your body’s way of saying, “Hey, something’s off here! I need to fix it!” It’s like your body’s built-in security system, activated when you’re sick or injured. That’s the good kind—acute inflammation.
But then there’s the bad, unwanted houseguest: chronic inflammation. It stays way too long, doesn’t bring snacks, and makes a mess of your health.
This chronic inflammation can lead to some seriously annoying (and exhausting) symptoms like anxiety, bloating, digestive problems, skin breakouts, migraines, and—yes—fatigue. You’re already tired, but now you’re really tired. It’s a vicious cycle.
Chronic Inflammation and Why Your Energy is Always on “E”
Let’s talk about energy—or, should I say, the lack of it.
When chronic inflammation enters the scene, it’s like a kid who refuses to leave the party. It keeps your immune system on high alert all the time, using up energy like there’s no tomorrow. As a result, your mitochondria (those little cellular powerhouses) don’t get to do their job properly, leaving you sluggish and drained.
Research has shown that chronic inflammation disrupts metabolic function which is the series of processes your body uses to convert food into energy. This includes breaking down the nutrients from the food you eat (like carbohydrates, fats, and proteins) and using that energy to fuel everything from basic cellular functions to more complex activities like exercise and thinking.
If your metabolic function is not good from chronic inflammation then you will feel tired, no matter how much sleep you get.
Digestive Drama: Bloating, Gas, and All That Jazz
Now, let’s talk about digestion—the part of your body that’s probably staging a protest with all the bloating and gas. Chronic inflammation in your gut is like having an unruly roommate who leaves dirty dishes everywhere. This inflammation can mess with your digestive system, leading to bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and general discomfort.
Foods like sugar, processed carbs, and trans fats trigger inflammation in your gut, making everything worse. So, if you’re wondering why that pizza is making you feel like a balloon, it’s because chronic inflammation is on the rampage in your digestive system.
And here’s the kicker: when your gut’s inflamed, it sends signals to your brain. That gut-brain connection can leave you feeling mentally foggy, irritable, and—yup—tired.
The result? You get that post-lunch slump before you even hit the afternoon meeting.
Types of Chronic Inflammation: The Usual Suspects
Inflammation comes in all shapes and sizes, but these are the usual troublemakers:
Muscle and Joint Inflammation: Those aches and pains that make you feel like you’re 80 instead of 30? Yeah, that’s chronic inflammation. Your gut might even be to blame, especially if you’ve got IBS, gut dysbiosis, or food sensitivities.
Hormonal and Thyroid Inflammation: If your hormones are out of whack and your thyroid’s being a drama queen, chronic inflammation could be the culprit. It can lead to fatigue, weight gain, and digestive distress.
Sugar-Induced Inflammation: That sweet tooth of yours? It’s not doing you any favors. Sugar feeds inflammation, which then feeds your fatigue and digestive troubles. It’s like a vicious cycle of sugar, inflammation, and exhaustion.
Stress-Induced Inflammation: Stress might be the real villain here. If you’re feeling constantly overwhelmed, your body stays in a state of heightened inflammation. You might not even know it’s happening, but your body sure does.
How to Kick Chronic Inflammation to the Curb
Good news: chronic inflammation doesn’t have to be your lifelong companion. It might be stubborn, but it can be managed and 100% in your control.
Here are some tried-and-true ways to take back control:
Mindset is Key
First things first: stop stressing. I know, easier said than done, right? But seriously, if you’re constantly worrying, you’re making inflammation worse. Try mindfulness, deep breathing, or just taking a few minutes to laugh at a silly video. Your body will thank you.Detoxify Your Home
Your home should be a sanctuary, not a chemical warzone. If you’ve got harsh cleaning products and beauty supplies, you might be adding to your inflammation. Switch to natural alternatives, and watch your body start to feel better.Supercharge Your Immune System
Your immune system is your best friend in the fight against inflammation. Feed it right with nutrient-dense foods—think leafy greens, fatty fish, and healthy fats. And, of course, ditch the processed foods that are like an all-you-can-eat buffet for inflammation.Move It, Move It
Exercise isn’t just about getting fit; it’s about reducing inflammation. It’s like giving your immune system a high-five! Whether it’s a walk, a yoga class, or a good old-fashioned dance party in your living room, movement helps clear out inflammation and boosts your energy.Feed Your Body Right
Your diet is everything when it comes to controlling inflammation. Avoid the foods that make things worse (looking at you, sugar and processed carbs) and load up on anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric, berries, and omega-3-rich foods. Your gut and energy levels will thank you.
Wrapping It Up: Take Charge of Your Health
Chronic inflammation is like that annoying friend who overstays their welcome. It sneaks up on you, saps your energy, and messes with your digestive system.
But here’s the good news: you don’t have to live with it forever.
By making small changes to your mindset, diet, and lifestyle, you can kick inflammation to the curb and start feeling like yourself again.
So, if you’re tired of being tired (and bloated, and cranky, and… you get the idea), take action today! Your body—and your energy levels—will thank you.
Ready to tackle inflammation and take back your energy? Let’s do this!
If you're tired of feeling drained and frustrated by digestive issues, I help my clients overcome these challenges by addressing the chronic inflammation going on in their bodies, helping them regain steady energy and feel like themselves again!
References:
Agirman, G., Yu, K.B., & Hsiao, E.Y. (2021). Signaling inflammation across the gut-brain axis. Science, 374, 1087 - 1092.
Ricordi, C., Garcia-Contreras, M., & Farnetti, S. (2015). Diet and Inflammation: Possible Effects on Immunity, Chronic Diseases, and Life Span. Journal of the American College of Nutrition, 34, 10 - 13.
