NAVIGATE

Kris Carr

Wellness

How to Reduce Inflammation in 5 Simple Steps

Hi Gorgeous,

Trying to decode the signals our bodies send us can feel like a giant puzzle sometimes. Why do we feel great some days and crappy on others? And what do those nagging symptoms really mean?

I know how frustrating this kind of uncertainty can be. You want (and deserve!) to feel great. And you can. It all starts with connecting the dots between your lifestyle choices—the foods you eat, how much sleep and exercise you get, the stressors you face—and your overall well-being.

Because the truth is, our daily habits can nourish us, but they can also trick our bodies into thinking they’re under attack. This sends our immune systems into total chaos—the root of chronic inflammation. That’s exactly what I want to talk with you about today!

Over the past decade, I’ve renovated everything from my grocery cart to my makeup bag to my mind in an effort to upgrade my immune system. And as I moved from a stressful life full of fast food, toxins and bad boyfriends, to a more balanced existence filled with plant-based nourishment, inner growth and conscious living, I started experiencing the perks—my chronic inflammation decreased, and my body started working with me to heal and rebuild.

Are you ready to start connecting the dots in your own life?

Before we learn about how to reduce inflammation, let’s talk about the difference between acute and chronic inflammation, and the different roles they play in our health.

What is inflammation?

Acute inflammation is your body’s natural and helpful immune response to tissue damage. For example, when you fall off your bike, the cut swells, reddens and feels…inflamed! These are all signs that your immune system is busy at work sending white blood cells to the site of your injury to repair the tissue. In this situation, inflammation is our friend—we couldn’t live without it.

Chronic inflammation is your body’s confused and damaging immune response to a barrage of environmental, physical and mental invaders. What you eat and drink, the thoughts you think, toxins, smoking, booze and even being a couch-potato can all trigger a fiery cascade of inflammation throughout your body.

When your body hits inflammatory overload, your defense system gets so overwhelmed and confused that it literally doesn’t know the difference between the invader and you. As a result, your well-meaning immune system turns on itself, destroying healthy cells, tissue, and everything else in its wake. It’s like when Al Pacino played Tony Montana in Scarface. He mows down everything in sight, yelling, “Say hello to my little friend!”

The dangers of chronic inflammation.

Over time, chronic inflammation wears out your immune system, which may lead to autoimmune diseases and other health issues, including cancer, asthma, heart disease, allergies, irritable bowel syndrome, arthritis, osteoporosis and even (gasp!) appearing older than your years.

Unfortunately, these challenges are often only treated with drugs and surgery. These may provide temporary relief from the symptoms, but don’t get to the root of the problem. In addition, these drugs (and their side effects) sometimes only add to your health problems.

Could it be that many of the pills in your cabinet are just band-aids and that the key to health lies in your daily diet and lifestyle choices? That’s certainly what I’ve found to be true.

But I’ve got good news! There are plenty of simple practices you can add to your day that will fight chronic inflammation. Here’s how to reduce inflammation in 5 easy steps.

How to kick butt & reduce inflammation.

1. Eat more whole, plant-based, nutrient-dense foods.

Certain foods can trigger an inflammatory response including processed foods that are high in refined sugar, flour and trans fats, fried foods, and animal products. The easiest way to clean up your diet is to add before you subtract. Crowd out the foods that cause inflammation by eating a beautiful cornucopia of whole, plant-based foods. 

Build your next meal around anti-inflammatory powerhouses like dark leafy greens, tomatoes, nuts, berries (cherries in particular), olive oil and flax oil, hemp seeds, turmeric (or more specifically, curcumin, a naturally occurring chemical with anti-inflammatory properties), green tea, and ginger.

Eating these foods on a regular basis will flood your body with the vitamins, minerals, cancer-fighting phytochemicals, antioxidants, fiber and other goodies it needs to reduce inflammation. Here are a few of my favorite recipes to tap into those anti-inflammatory effects:

There’s more where that came from—my cookbooks, Crazy Sexy Kitchen and Crazy Sexy Juice, are both packed with delicious anti-inflammatory recipes!

Oh, and don’t forget to stay hydrated. Proper hydration helps decrease inflammation and can even prevent it from happening in the first place, so drink up, buttercup!

2. Get down with your gut!

Your gut holds approximately 60–70 percent of your immune system, so it’s a great place to start if you want to reduce inflammation. If your gut is in bad shape, your immune system might be in some serious trouble.

One easy way to start improving your gut health is by adding a high-quality probiotic to your daily routine. The FloraMend Prime Probiotic from Thorne Research, Ultimate Flora from Renew Life and Jarro-Dophilus EPS from Jarro Formulas are some of my personal faves. And if you want more tips and resources to help you take care of your gut health, check out my post here!

If you’re experiencing prolonged bloating, gas or other digestive discomforts, taking digestive enzymes with meals can help you get more nutrition out of your food, as well as improving digestion and boosting your immune system. Check out my blog here for more info on digestive enzymes, prebiotics and probiotics!

Another possible cause of inflammatory symptoms is leaky gut syndrome. This condition occurs when your intestinal lining is damaged, allowing bacteria, undigested food and other toxins to literally “leak” into your bloodstream. This kind of leak triggers an autoimmune response with a host of painful inflammatory symptoms. If you think you may have a leaky gut, ask your doc to help you get a test done!

3. Find an integrative MD you trust.

Finding the right doctor is a critical part of nipping chronic inflammation in the bud. A good integrative MD takes a holistic approach by looking at your habits and the way you lead your life. Then you can work together to identify and address possible chronic inflammation triggers. Here are two in particular that your doctor is on the lookout for:

Food sensitivities: Gluten, soy, dairy, eggs and yeast are just a few of the common problem foods that might be wreaking havoc on your immune system every time you sit down for a meal.

If you think you might have a sensitivity or allergy, start paying close attention to what you’re eating and how it makes you feel. If your symptoms persist, fill your doc in on what you notice— they may suggest a blood test or elimination diet. You can find more info about food allergies and sensitivities here.

Chronic infection: Bacteria, viruses, yeast, parasites—oh my! These guys could be hiding out in your body under the radar and dragging your immune system down. If chronic infection is a suspect in your inflammation mystery, your doc may ask for blood work and/or a stool sample to analyze. Yes, your poop has a lot to say about what’s going on inside, so listen up!

And if doctors make you nervous, here are some helpful tips to face that fear and get the care you deserve. You’ve got this!

4. Get more rest and relaxation.

Your body works hard to repair and restore your glorious cells while you sleep. Most doctors recommend 7–8 hours of sleep per night. If you’re cutting corners in the snooze department, you’re cheating your immune system, which means it needs to kick into high gear in an effort to keep you well (hello, inflammation!).

Stress goes hand in hand with a lack of sleep and a laundry list of demands in our daily lives. Unfortunately, when you’re stressed out all the time, you’re also producing more of the hormone cortisol—inflammation’s BFF. You can reduce inflammation by reducing stress. Get more sleep, try yoga or meditation, take long walks, use less technology, or take a much-needed vacation. You know I love to take every opportunity I can to remind you to take a chill pill!

5. Reduce toxins in your food, home and personal care products.

Your body’s alarm system goes off when you absorb toxic chemicals and pesticides through your digestive tract and skin—inflammation station, here we come! Luckily, there are some small, simple changes you can make to start protecting yourself right away. And please don’t feel like you’ve gotta throw out everything in your house and start from scratch—each and every baby step goes a long way.

First, check out EWG’s Clean Fifteen/Dirty Dozen charts before your next trip to the grocery store. It will help you prioritize which produce to buy organic (and when it’s OK to go with conventional). Those lists change yearly, so be sure to check back often. EWG also has you covered with their Skin-Deep database of non-toxic personal care products. Finally, I put together this resource to help you steer clear of yucky chemicals in your household cleaning products.

Remember, small steps lead to big change! That’s especially true when it comes to fighting chronic inflammation. Start connecting the dots to better health by trying one of these suggestions and see how you feel.

I bet you’ll start to notice a difference and want to build from there! Now, I’m about to go sip on my leafy greens, how about you?

Your turn: Do you struggle with chronic inflammation? Which one of these tips will you try? Or, if you have inflammation fighting tips of your own, tell me all about them!

Peace & immunity,

 
Add a comment
  1. Natasha says:

    Hi Kris!
    I love to read all your articles! I have a book of your juicing books at home now. I’d love to look into your cookbook!
    Inflammation has been a huge problem for me causing all sorts of havoc on my life. I struggle from fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, central sensitization syndrome to just name a few and these cause all sorts of symptoms besides.
    I seem to get into a rut of where I should be eating better, exercise more etc but I go through phases of telling myself I can’t do it right now.
    I’m to the point though where something has got to change or I’ll be stuck in this rut for far too long and I don’t want to feel the way I do any more.
    I’m ready to start and make changes. I’ve had leaky gut before and had to start with an elimination diet and add things in slowly to heal. I want to say I am going to start by tracking my food intake and trying to eliminate those common food items that cause problems.
    I appreciate you writing all of these articles! You are such am inspiring person.

  2. Nuzhat says:

    How I can detoxify my blood? Stomach,liver ,heart ,brain, overy intestine etc from bacteria, toxins, pathogens ,pesticides and other harmfull substances to cure overian cancer

  3. Florian says:

    Hi Kris,

    I sent you an email but unsure if it will get in your inbox. So here I am.
    How did you get over the `fear` when you were diagnosed and start working objectively towards getting healthy.
    Is turkey a good item in the recipe. (I have not yet read all your recipes as I just got started checking out your blogs and website).

  4. graviola says:

    Awesome advices Kris, thanks! I improved my diet in last few years by consuming more nuts, garlic, graviola, green tea(my favourite drink nowadays) and fresh vegetables to get more vitamins and antioxidants in my body. Also I walk way more than I used to.

  5. Peoples can Avoids foods that are high in saturated fats and trans fats, as well as foods. A Mediterranean-style diet olive oil, fruits and vegetables, nuts, beans also helps to maintain a healthy body weight. Those peoples who exercise regularly are more likely to heal faster from injuries and less likely to develop chronic inflammation. Great | Thanks for sharing this informative blog

  6. 마사지 says:

    Aw, this was a very good post. Taking the time and actual effort to generate a
    great article? but what can I say? I hesitate a lot
    and never manage to get nearly anything done.

  7. I was surprised to hear that inflammation is the cause of most diseases. The first thing to do to eliminate chronic inflammation is to change your eating habits. Many popular foods make inflammation worse (if you already have chronic inflammation) so you need to know not only what you should be eating but also what to avoid eating.

    If you’re adding turmeric to your diet, are you doing it correctly? It’s difficult for the body to absorb turmeric; you might only get about 5% of it actually being absorbed – the rest goes to waste. In order to get the most out of your turmeric, make sure your meal also contains some black pepper. Black pepper contains a substance called piperine, which increases absorption of curcumin, the active component in turmeric, enormously. Alternatively, there’s a liposomal turmeric supplement that’s absorbed directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the stomach.

  8. Hazel says:

    I am a Stage 3, triple negative breast cancer survivor (3 months!) and I’ve learned all about chronic inflammation but unfortunately I already have an auto-immune disorder, lymphocytic colitis. Foods that you recommend like tomatoes, raw veggies, raw fruit, green smoothies, green juices, etc aggravate my colitis. It severely limits my diet and is very worrisome.

  9. Tessa Hudson says:

    T Y for all of this helpful information.I am 66 yrs young and in pretty good health,but would like to improve. This is a more practical way of doing so.

  10. Hey Kate ,CBD oil helps to reduce inflammation in the body which helps to reduce pain from arthritis. it also acts as a great supplement. Many arthritis patients have been discussing CBD oil as the CBD proves to be a miracle for them.

  11. Sal says:

    Hi there,
    Just wanted to share about 4 months ago I received my blood test crp and my ana . Which are your inflammation markers. My tests came back normal. I put myself on a vegan diet, also I contribute it to being faithful every morning on an empty stomach I would have a 20 oz glass of room temperature water with a half squeezed lemon, 1/2 teaspoon of organic ginger juice and a half a red grapefruit or orange a bit of salt. Every morning. My vegan diet was a lot of juicing greens, 3 Green drinks with Dr Alexander’s orgain superfoods 1 scoop once a day . My
    conventional neurologist and
    primary care drs were amazed. I feel great. I helped my gut along also I had to get rid of the inflammation and love being not in pain not stiff nor cranky. I was diagnosed with papillary thyroid cancer. In which I have been maintaining it with a lot of studying. Learning all about mutated cells, thyroid, a lot of courses on line. Also with the help of a naturalpathic dr. For the thyroid. He stated getting rid of the inflammation was a great step to a successful healing and a healthier me.

  12. Jenny says:

    Question: I thought tomatoes were on the list of inflammatory foods/nightshade vegetables that should be avoided when fighting inflammation? Understandable on the other hand they are filled with many nutrients. There is a lot of conflicting information when it comes to whether or not to eat them when combating inflammation. What made you choose them to be on your list ?

    • Jen Reilly, RD says:

      Hi Jenny! I’m the nutrition director here with Kris, so I’ll jump in. Tomatoes are not necessarily inflammatory. However, for people sensitive to nightshade foods, they can trigger joint pain and other symptoms of inflammation. Tomatoes are loaded with nutrition and shouldn’t be avoided unless you have a sensitivity. Hope that helps! – xo Jen

  13. Very nice blog. Useful home remedies to cure from inflammation. Cureveda also provides best ayurvedic medicine for inflammation. Try this medicines and get relief from inflammation.

  14. Nadine Kocum says:

    Hi Kris. I am very interested in get an Digestive Enzyme supplement because I have 2 ulcers and GERD. I get an upset stomach most of the time when I eat. Of the three that you mentioned above, what are the differences, which one do most people take and which one do you take? How do you know which one to choose? TIA Nadine

  15. Nice! thanks for sharing this informative article. Cant wait to hear more from you. Great tips. 🙂

  16. Tina McCoy says:

    Thank You so much Kris Carr for sharing this valuable information. Up to August 2017, I didn’t know about inflammation in the body. Every time I felt ill, discomfort, pain in my body, mainly in my back and hip, my MD gave me anti-inflammation medication such as Prednisone, heavy duty Tylenol, and other Pharma medication I can’t even pronounce. Though they help temporarily to reduce my pain, they also caused me complication in my gastro intestinal. Meanwhile, I’ve also sought the help of a Chiropractor for my chronic back pain, and he administered acupuncture to reduce my pain. I shared with my Chiropractor about anti-inflammation drugs my MD prescribed to alleviate the pain in my back. He suggested a natural approach and offered me Boswella Extract (Herbal Secrets), a plant-based anti-inflammation supplement, which took away my back pain. Now, I can do my morning walk, yoga, qigong and Taichi practice to keep my muscles, tendons and joints healthy. I am so happy and grateful that our path crossed here. You are the angel God sent to me to help me heal my body. Thank You for being you and for your work to help many live a healthy life. Namaste.

  17. Teresa says:

    Dermalmd serum is one of the awesome way to keeping the inflammation down on my face. My face stays dry and I am sensitive to different foods that cause me to break out and dermalmd helps a lot to make the appearance less in the short run and to also help clear up my face in the long run. The little bit that ends up on my hands from putting it on my face makes them super soft.

  18. Madelein says:

    Dear Kris, since I was diagnosed with breast cancer in March, you have thrown a lifeline to me with your website. Thanks Gorgeous! I am now drinking my green juice every day, my turmeric milk in the evenings and I have changed to a pescatarian diet. I lost 10 kg very easily and am keeping it off without any effort. I was taking medication daily for my very bad hayfever and since cutting out red meat and milk, my hayfever is gone! I always thought that my allergies were caused by pollen and other floaters in the air, not realising that meat and diary could be the major culprits. I try to eat food as close to its natural form possible and steer clear of anything processed. Changing my lifestyle gives me a measure of control and uplifts my spirit. The strangest thing, I now feel proud when I shop for all my healthy food and proud when I look at my rainbow plate every day. Sending you virtual hugs from sunny South Africa!

  19. Helpful post. Thanks for sharing.
    Keep up the good work!

  20. Gene Carter says:

    I had fibromyalgia, and it was painful on some days. I took methocarbamol to relieve the pain. Sometimes it helps and other days it doesn’t. I had it for almost 16 years, there was no cure. So I had to live with it the best that I could. The symptoms I had were Muscle Pains, mood swings, and difficulty falling asleep.There has been little if any progress in finding a cure or reliable treatment. April this year my brother In law who’s an M.D suggested I started on Natural Herbal Gardens Fibromyalgia Herbal formula which eased my anxiety a bit,We ordered their Fibro herbal treatment after reading alot of positive reviews, i started on natural alternative Fibromyalgia DISEASE treatment from Natural Herbal Gardens the treatment worked very effectively, i am happy to report with the help of Natural Herbal Garden natural herbs my severe symptoms simply vanished, i feel better now, this alternative fibromyalgia disease treatment is a breakthrough.Visit Natural Herbal Gardens official website This Herbal Protocol is Incredible, I have never been this Healthier!!

  21. Otter says:

    I have severe osteoarthritis. It is so bad in my hands that it was once misdiagnosed as rheumatoid arthritis. I know when I eat clean it hurts less. I also found that I have a sensitivity to plants in the Nightshade family (yep, tell the Italian/Irish woman, no more potatoes or tomatoes!)
    Tumeric helps a lot. My biggest battle is sugar. Thought I kicked it – several times. Trying to be gentle with myself.
    Thanks for all the info. Love, love, love your cookbook, Kris!!

    • kris says:

      It sounds like you’ve got a great mindset. You’re right that it’s important to be gentle with yourself. I know that’s not always easy, but remember that nourishing yourself is a process (made up of lots of little choices!)—every step in the right direction counts, and the missteps are learning opportunities. xo!

  22. Bonnie Stolarczyk says:

    I have found that gluten does not agree with me. It causes noticeable mental issues. Can you suggest good subscriptions for the gluten in your recipes?

    • kris says:

      Hey Bonnie! It all depends on the recipe. There are lots of great gluten free breads and pasta options out there. And if you’re baking, you could try oat flour, chickpea flour, etc. There are also tons of gluten free options in the recipes section of my site. Happy cooking! xo, kc

  23. Anna says:

    I’m just starting out on this journey but I’m already discouraged.
    The problem is this: I’m a shift worker and my work schedule definitely plays a role in my unhealthy life and habits.
    But I just can’t see a way to do some these things considering my hectic schedule, especially the rest, relax & reduce stress part.
    What do you recommend for shift workers?

    • kris says:

      I’m sorry to hear you’re feeling discouraged, Anna! I can understand how your schedule might make things tough, especially when you’re trying new and unfamiliar things. I encourage you to stick with it and notice the small changes you’re making (give yourself a hug or a pat on the back for every little bit—it all counts!).

      I know that the resting and reducing stress part can be particularly challenging. You could try some simple deep breathing when you have a short break at work—I know that always centers me when I’m having a tough day. I also have my Self-Care for Busy People meditation album (https://kriscarr.com/buy-selfcare-meditationalbum/) which sounds like it might be right up your alley! All of the tracks short and sweet, and designed to help people just like you unwind.

      I’ve written a lot about stress reduction, so I suggest searching the site for “stress” and hopefully you’ll find something that resonates with you. I hope this helps and sending you big hugs! xo, kc

    • Jen Reilly, RD says:

      Hi Anna! I’m the nutrition director here so I’ll add my two cents too! Shift work can really mess with your metabolism and sleep, which means it’s that much more important to choose healthy foods to keep your body energized and feeling good. If you can, take an hour or two on your non-work days to prep ingredients for making healthy eating easier: Make a couple one-pot meals like a veggie lasagna or a bean chili, trail mix for snacking, healthy muffins, and chop veggies for meals and snacks, and make “smoothie bags” for quick smoothies before or after work. It will also be really important not to skip meals as that often leads to not-the-best food choices and overeating! As Kris said, rest and stress reduction are biggies too. Hope this helps! xo

  24. Chelsea says:

    Thanks for the breakdown and practical tips for moving forward. Inflammation is such an issue, it’s time we talk more about it!

  25. Becky says:

    What about Apple cider vinegar? I take it for acid reflux. Does it adversely affect gut health?

    • Jen Reilly, RD says:

      Hey Becky! I’m the nutrition director here at Crazy Sexy Wellness, so I’ll chime in for Kris. Apple cider vinegar can actually be really helpful for gut health because it can improve digestion and nutrient absorption, and it also acts as a prebiotic. Prebiotics feed probiotics which are essential for a healthy gut. Hope that helps! xo – Jen

  26. Cheryl says:

    Hi Kris,
    Thank you so much for this article. I don’t know how to tell if I have inflammation, but I’m trying to follow a vegetable diet anyhow to see if I notice any difference. I still do some unhealthy things like drink pasteurized cows milk, take refined sugar in my coffee and eat eggs. I am first adding the healthy things before I start to give up things. Thank you for your emails and free stuff, especially your videos. I really admire you and wish you all the Love and happiness in the worldd

  27. Thank you for your great post. My oldest daughter has this very issue due to her allergies so we know best how hard it is to get through life with chronic inflammation. It is a daily struggle.

  28. Angela Brown says:

    I’m feeling healthier than I felt before I was diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis at the age of thirteen . Now I’m fifty three and I’m looking like a teenager again”HALLELUJAH !!!

  29. Tom says:

    Thanks so much for this information. I have been dealing with Neuroinflammation on and off since October and I have visited several docs but they can’t tell me what is causing it. One of my friends told me about RS4supplements.com and PeaPlex is very helpful therefore.

  30. Lily says:

    I have been suffering from Inflammations for the last 3 years and I was totally unfit. One of my friends told me about RS4supplements.com and PeaPlex is very helpful therefore.

  31. David Seaman says:

    This post is really insightful.. Inflammations can also cause chronic diseases. An inflammation is not always a helpful response of the body.
    DeFlaming is about reducing inflammation. This is a very relevant lifestyle consideration as almost all chronic aches, pains, and diseases are caused by chronic inflammation. Not well known is that poor nutrition, a lack of sleep, a lack of exercise, and stress all lead to chronic inflammation and eventually, this leads to the expression of chronic disease.

  32. Susan Stukes says:

    Nice post.I found it so helpful and useful.I never wonder for natural ways to reduce chronic inflammation.

  33. Susan Stukes says:

    Thanks for sharing this useful article with us..great job for awaring people..Such a wonderful kindness.

  34. Margo says:

    Many scientists are pushing a theory that focuses on the increased incidence of allergies in current populations. According to these scientists, excessive cleanliness leads to bacterial imbalances and an over-active immune system.

    Taking probiotics can help restore the bacterial balance.

    The good news is that sufficient clinical evidence is there to suggest that probiotics could be used for the treatment of allergies.

  35. Trimiracle says:

    Hello
    I am with a small local company, Trimiracle, which is a daily natural supplement developed to naturally fight inflammation. It is combination of turmeric, ginger, and black pepper. When combined, the three ingredients can change your life. Our goal as a company is for everyone to be able to enjoy the day without the pain from inflammation slowing them down or holding them back. Please visit our website Trimiracle.com and let us help you take control of your life again.

  36. Christina says:

    I use Dermalmd Acne Serum in the am and before bed. I can feel it working and it really reduces the redness and inflammation. I use it under make up and on its own to cover up blemishes. It’s great to be able to cover them up whilst treating them at the same time. Highly recommended by my teenage son as well!

  37. Ribka says:

    Foderma Serum is one of the best way to reduce inflammation naturally.

  38. You are so spot on about repairing your gut health. It’s amazing the vast majority of the general population isn’t suffering from lupus.

    Managing chronic inflammation has improved my life considerably. The CRP (C-reactive protein test) you mentioned is an absolute must!! Thank you for sharing your insight and expertise!!?

  39. Laila says:

    Hi my name is laila ….. I have resently found out i have rheumatoid arthritis an i have alot of inflamation issuse is there any way to control my problem through nutrition

  40. Charlotte says:

    Hi Kris, I’ve been vegan for 11 years now, and although I didn’t do it primarily for health reasons I now know how much better a plant-based diet is for us than the traditional omnivorous diet… But a lot of my friends still think meat is healthy, and I’m not very good at listing the reasons why it’s not… Do you have an article or list of all the main reasons why we should avoid meat in our diets? (And, if not, it would be awesome if you could cover it in a future post!) I know you touch on it under separate posts, but it would be great to have all the reasons listed together in one place… Thanks so much for all your awesomeness by the way 🙂 xx

  41. Brenda Fitch says:

    Dear Kris,
    I paid $15.00 for a program you offered this summer. I think it was on meditation. I am not sure how to access it?
    Could you please help me on this matter?
    Thanks,
    Brenda

  42. Marshall says:

    Another great post about inflammation. Diet really is key…especially controlling sugar, some dairy and some grains 🙂

  43. Adrien says:

    I would like to reduce the fat from my stomach. I go to two exercises classes a week as well as
    the exercises I do at my home

  44. Melissa says:

    Today I found this website and article. what is fun is that i am already doing so many of these things and need to adjust more. Suffering from hypothyroid and recently diagnosed with Psoriatic Arthritis, there are days where i feel like C3PO walking around! haha I will let you know of my progress.. as a yoga instructor… i need to get rid of this pain and stiffness in my joints!

  45. Christi Nelson says:

    Hi Kris,

    Do you have a list of recommended integrative MDs? I’m in the San Francisco Bay Area (Castro Valley to be exact).

  46. Fiona Williams says:

    Amazing article Kris!! For all Canadians who are looking for non-toxic body and beauty products check out Rocky Mountain Soaps and their toxin free program. They are my favourite for soaps, shampoos, conditioners and moisturizers.
    Also some tips for cleaning, I use baking soda for my bathtub and sinks and also vinegar to clean my windows… bye bye ammonia and heavens know what else! 🙂
    Love your work Kris and all the helpful comments from fellow readers 🙂

  47. Leah says:

    What an awesome article! I’ve been experiencing daily head pressure & migraines for two & a half years, trying every medication & treatment in the book to no avail. It’s time to really focus on curbing inflammation-thanks for the great tips! I’m curious if any of your followers have experienced the same symptoms & have gotten relief. Thanks Kris!

  48. Claudia says:

    Thank you Kris for this very timely article. I just discovered I have cysts the size of walnuts behind my knees. I know it’s excess fluid/inflammation. They are very painful. I have been battling knee arthritis in both knees and have gone dairy and meat free for over a year now, but I’m still having a lot of problems, hence the cysts. I’ve seen several doctors but all they want to do is surgery and replace my knees. I’m only 45! I need to find another way. I am going to follow your guidance You have laid out here ALL of it. This message feels like you wrote it just for me. You are a living example of my hope and faith in healing oneself. I Thank you for giving me hope that there can be a natural way to heal. Thank you for being the messenger of light and love.

  49. José says:

    I love this post – it’s SO relevant to me right now (and clearly many others). I already follow a dairy, gluten & refined sugar free diet to keep gut inflammation under control but recently I’ve needed re-address this and get really honest with myself about what I eat, particularly those hidden sugars! Thanks for writing this now Kris! xo

  50. Ann Jarvis says:

    Hi Kris! I love this article and I love your contributions to holistic health and healing! I know inflammation well 🙂 I had severe Crohn’s Disease for over 20 years (diagnosed at 7 years old) and had tried every diet on the planet! For years, I cleaned up my emotional clutter and my health sky-rocketed. I felt incredibly unburdened and free. After I had my daughter, 5 years ago, I could feel the old familiar fatigue and sore joints kicking in…inflammation was back. I took a leap and tried out a veggie-heavy Paleo diet. I realize that you don’t eat meat and understand the incredible value in that for so many people. But I think it’s important to highlight that we are all metabolically unique. I’ve never felt better since adopting this way of eating. Grains, gluten and refined sugar can be such an incredible problem for people with inflammatory conditions. Thanks again for another great post!

  51. Nayna says:

    Thanks for the great article. Your friendly energy is so refreshing and inspiring 🙂 Congrats on all your success, with your health and career! XOXO

  52. Mary says:

    I still don’t get it though — how do you KNOW if you have inflammation?! Is it like if you wake up in the morning and you have a puffy face some days..?

  53. mimi matheson says:

    so good to know you are there with this inflammation news …I have not been well since leaving hospital several years ago with C-diff from round the clock antibiotics for ten days……so now with other health problems I will appreciate any news you can give me to flush out this inflammed body….I do not have funds to get repairs now so be kind and help please…..thank you

  54. Allison says:

    Kris, thank you for your post. I have had minor health concerns due to inflammation and higher cortisol. It is amazing when you start digging how you realize the bodily connections. I have become increasingly aware of all of the toxins in our personal products and have slowly been making changes. What have you heard about dairy and inflammation? This is my new concern… Thanks again for your wonderful post!

  55. Natalie says:

    Hi! I just wondered, will a CPR test be able to test for any inflammation regardless of where it is? I suspect inflammation for my eyes, I deal with dry eyes at the age of 19 started at the tail end of 17. I take fish oil and other tablets to keep it at bay, but struggle as they are still red/dry. Normal diet yet I try to eat more healither things, cut out alcohol/caffeine. I’m going back to get a check up, and doing acupuncture. I’m at college 2/ and a half days a week, and go out at the weekend to town. I’m just not sure if this test will help, maybe… Everytime I get results it comes back in a clear zone. Could you recommend a good choice for me? I’m just lost recently, quite stressed but I do sleep whenever I can. Never checked my gut, but the last time I got a blood test for over-all it was it was good, yet when I got another one it showed higher levels of white blood cells. Sorry If it’s vague!

  56. Beverly says:

    This post is very helpful. I have your books and following your juicing. I have celieac

    This is very helpful thank you

  57. Christine Buen says:

    I need help with my IIN course and don’t know who to contact. I relapsed and was extremely sick for a long while and I’m back on my feet and need to take a test I missed. Can you help?

  58. Suzanne Guihot says:

    Hi Khris, your information is inspirational.I am 42 and have had a weight problem all my life,yo yo dieting I feel very unhealthy and depressed.I lost my mother to uterus cancer four months ago and scared that I’m heading down the same path.Your information is over whelming and a lot to absorb.But this sounds like the wake up call I need!

    I will leave a clean copy in the comments

  59. Tarnji Navie says:

    Hi and thanks for the info. I have been put on a FODMAP diet for IBS do you know much about it? I’m still learning 🙂

  60. Linda says:

    Hi Kris, Everything you mentioned above is what other people are saying. I have made the dietary changes – drink kefir milk, water and kombucha daily, have cut out processed foods, take oral chelation, chlorella, antioxidants, omega 3 & 9, have cut out chicken and the nightshade family as well as sugar. The only dairy I have is cheese and kefir milk. I bake my own bread with kefir milk and organic, stoneground flour. I have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis. The pains in my hands are the worst but I only take pain killers when it gets unbearable. By the way, the above changes have certainly healed my sinuses and reduced my migraines down to maybe one a month so something is working. Maybe I should just be more patient. I unfortunately can’t eliminate the stress at this stage of my life but try to manage it daily. Any more suggestions or advice you can offer? Many thanks.

  61. louise Enderlin says:

    I want to get rid of this jaw pain in my face I crack every time I eat any thing! SO much pain it is does not get any better with time. I would hope that this will help me for now since the doctor just wants to take blood tests. I cannot image if I could do this on my own??? Thank you again for this
    louise

  62. Neal says:

    Kris you are an uplifting, motivating friend! I’m 54 and have put myself at the back of the train making sure everyone else is taken care of (I raised my 2 daughters and am now raising two of my 4 grandchildren). I’m a cop and my body has been giving me signs for years now (I’m also retired Navy and that took a certain toll on my bod), after 2 partial knee replacements, back issues, and loss of part of my left lung (due to cryptococcal pneumonia). I have never eaten great, but I used to work out all the time, aerobics and lifting weights, and now you’d wonder if I ever exercised at all.

    I’m going to start these changes that you have given me. I’ve been wanting to do this for a long time, but haven’t made the time or effort to do this for myself, but as I’ve picked up in your articles, it’s not just me I’m doing this for. I need to make sure I’m here, healthy and happy, for my grand kids, particularly the two I’m raising.

    So I will be following you and listening closely for your knowledge, tips, and motivation.

    Thank you for all you’ve done and sharing your resiliency with us! You are amazing!

  63. Deanna says:

    Hi Kris,
    Right this very moment I am struggling with hives that now cover about 3/4 of my body. Went to see my dermatologist and we have to get this figured out. Yes I am also under a ton of stress…
    This has a come to head and I just can’t imagine that I stumbled on to you by accident…
    I am going to really give this a try!!!

    Thank you 🙂

  64. Sonji says:

    This was very helpful!

  65. TINA says:

    I LOVE YOU MS. CARR, AND I LOVE YOUR TESTIMONY AND ALSO YOUR CONTRIBUTION TO THE DOCUMENTARY-HUNGRY FOR CHANGE-.

    MY MAIN CONCERN WITH MY HEALTH IS CHRONIC SWEATS AND HOT FLASHES… AND I MEAN CHRONICALLY SEVERE, TO SAY THE LEAST. IT ONLY HAPPENS WHEN I HAVE TO ELIMINATE WASTE FROM MY BODY… URINE AND/OR BOWELS. ONCE THE ELIMINATION HAS PASSED THE FLASHES DIMINISH OR DECREASE AT LEAST. DO YOU KNOW OF ANY CASES OR TESTIMONIES THAT INCLUDE THIS PROBLEM AND/ OR ITS REMEDY?????????????????????????????????????

    SINCERELY,
    FROM MY HEART TO YOURS,
    TINA

  66. I just recently experience bateria in my stomach although it’s just a little I was scared to death have under went so many test and they all came back negative although my doctor said it’s something dormant in my body they don’t have a clue what their up against.

  67. Linda says:

    Dear Kris.
    I love the information you are giving out. I myself am healing from H.Pylori and leaky gut, My NHS doctors do not believe in leaky gut or candida but I had tests completed with Genova diagnostics and it is great to be able to get extra advice on line… My mother has secondary lung and pancreatic cancer. I took her off cow’s milk, and changed to almond milk, I encouraged her to juice up 4 veg and 1 fruit every morning and within 3 days her insulin levels had come down 6 points. In just over a week we she is between 6- 8 points lower. She looks amazing. Thank you for sharing your zest for life and information

    Warmest wishes to you Linda

  68. Great information in a great article!

  69. Jo says:

    it is tough to do without support, when already exhausted.

  70. Diane says:

    Hi kris,

    Your book is giving me hope to fight my newly dignosed cancer with a sexy firey attitude. I am 51, just Dx with breast ca. It is a stage I I but a very aggressive high grade tumor. Barely a month past lumpectomy, sent node biopsy and port placed my 1st round chemo was last thurs! Sat was rough….nausea, no appetite or strength to make green shakes . I did wake up to make lemon water with special Alkaline h20… It must not have liked my body ph…it quickly found its way to my puke bucket. I have always been an exerciser but a diet soda and processed food junkie!

    Your book, inspiration and savvy attitude inspire me. I am really trying to change my life and use this as opportunity to be healthier than ever. I am going to combine your way of life with the traditional 7 months chemo and 6 weeks(30 RXT treatments ) to follow. You will make me feel sexy even bald!

    Ok, question: on days with no appetite , lemon water and green shake the last thing appealing due to nausea… Oh and ginger root and tea causes me to gag…. Any tips to stay away from acidic foods…sat the only thing finally stayed down was Gatorade….I know that is full of sugar probably feeding those microscopic ca cells .

    Thanks for your story. Grateful for any tips!

  71. Jennie Dutton says:

    I am stage 4 metastisized breast cancer in both my lungs. That means I had a double mastectomy, chemo, and radiation the first round. Four years later, I was diagnosed with the same cancer, but in both lungs. We are doing a hormonal therapy first. We found it early and and the amount of disease is minimal. However, the words incurable and inoperable are part of my diagnosis. Statistically, I’ll be lucky to live 5 years. I am hoping diet and medicine can get me more time.

  72. Robinia Olson says:

    Hello,

    I always get confused as to what to do. I am trying to eat a plant based diet but I have some issues. I am pre diabetic. I have several food allergies that I know of. Dairy, egg whites, green beans, carrots, . I use soy milk for cereal and smoothies because I can tolerate it better than anything else. I already by choice do not eat beef, or pork or any shell fish.
    I have psoriasis…and when I eat foods that I have an allergy to my psoriasis welts up and I feel horrible. I believe in more natural remedies. But it is hard to find someone in my area that I trust who could help me.
    The main thing I notice when I eat all plant base is that I feel tired. I feel like when I eat a little meat I have more energy. I would love to find a GOOD practitioner in my area. I am in Long Beach, California. Could you recommend someone.

  73. Rosi Perkins says:

    Kris,
    I am so excited that my friend Hailey connected me to you. It’s like the dots are starting to connect. I was just recently diagnosed with RA and am trying to focus more natural way. This idea of a functional MD is something I want to look into. I keep hearing about leaky gut and being that my SED rate is incredibly elevated I think it really does come back to my gut. I have removed sugar, dairy and now gluten to see what is up.
    I really want to start cleaning out more and think I need a really good cleanse to rid more toxins. Any suggestions and how to find a functional MD too.

  74. Jill Seiter says:

    Thanks so much for all the great health information. I’m passing things on to my lovely daughters to help them be healthier as well. My oldest daughter has lots of IBS problems and at age 25 is not mensturating. I sent her the link on allergy testing. I’m wondering if celiac may be the cause.

    I personally intend to work on reducing my chemical intake even more this week. I plan to implement a single change in that area each day for 7 days and then I’ll move on to another area on the list to reduce inflammation.

    I am so excited to get started on improving my health! I feel like “Sue Heck” from the TV series “The Middle”. I’m going to declare this the year of Jill!! Kinda like a New Year’s resolution ( I started my own version of a weight loss program) in January and have lost 10 lbs so far. This is my time. It’s my turn to focus on me! My health is important. I am a Mom and a caregiver (husband has cancer) and I often come in second, third or fourth in line where health is concened. It’s time to focus more on me! Thanks for the help Kris!

  75. Teresa says:

    Great information! I had a feeling I had a chance of facing a chronic inflammation problem after treating SIBO. Started in my calf, mri even showed inflammation in my calf. Now inflammation is from head to toe, with excruciating pain, that doesn’t go away. I’ve been on a clean diet for a year and it seems my body is just turning on its self. I have an RA appointment soon. In the mean time I do get spouts of relief adding suppliments to my diet. D3, B, C, E, omega 3, magnesium taurate and Epson salts baths. Even with this pain I still.use my eliptacle 2 minutes every 1 or 2 through the day. Moving is very important. I am on the probiotic you suggested for a year now. For leaky gut L-Glutenmine helps to build the intestinal flora, bone broth, I make my.own ginger root, turmeric and green tea. Enzymes are important digestive and systemic they have alot of anti inflammation properties and with leaky gut it helps digest food. Eat clean. I take greens daily as well. I’m sensitive to gluten, dairy and sugar my pain gets worse if I try and cheat. I need further testing to rule out auto immune diseases but until my appointment time arrives the things I’m doing do help. Thanks for the info.

  76. MG says:

    Hi Kris,

    I accidently came across your youtube with marie Forleo and I must say, how much I fell in love with you and your work after watching that video. Thank you for making the difference in this world by your marvelous work.

    I’ve been have been suffering from vit D deficiency for about a four-five years which gives pain in every joint of my body and nothing seems to work for me. Unfortunately, I have to rely on vit D capsules every day which make me feel dependent and unhappy.

    I’ll explore your website and emails and youtubes to try my luck with natural food with medicinal properties.

    Thank you oncce again for making the difference.

  77. Bruce Warner says:

    My daughter-in-law has recommended that I read your blog as I have joint pain each morning. I thought at age 69, it was just old age. I look forward to reading.

  78. Nathan says:

    Great article. I have noticed some new nutritional supplements that claim to help with chronic inflammation. One is called Soleaus and is derived from olive trees. It is supposed to attack chronic inflammation and help you lose weight. The website is http://www.soleaus.com – what do you think?

  79. Leesa says:

    Wow, that’s what I was looking for, what a material!
    exizting here att this blog, thanks admin of this web site.

  80. Hello there! I simply wwould like to give you a huge thumbs up for the great info you have right here on this post.
    I will be coming back too your blog ffor more soon.

  81. Pat Reed says:

    Suffering with arthritis in my back. I’ve had two hips, two knees replaced. Need help, now my back is giving me trouble what would you recommend in supplements and food

  82. Vicki says:

    Thank you Kris so much for your willingness to share.
    The starter kit information does resonate.
    I viewed the video of what you eat (smile) and excited about
    getting the recipe book.

  83. LadyDianne says:

    Thank you so much for the recipes. I had a struggle with kidney stones so now I am changing my eating habits and came across your website. You have some great advice and a powerful testimony. Thank you for your book .

  84. Cathy says:

    I have radiation enteritis which I have battled for 3 years. I was doing pretty good after my Dr put me in 7 days of veggie broth to get my intestines time to heal. But after working 3 hours in garden I have sore joints and gained 3 lbs. Why does hard exercise affect inflamation so much!

  85. Fontaine says:

    I have chronic inflammation due to parasites. Believe it or not, after three years of fighting this battle and woking with a Functional Medicine Doctor, a high quality Cod Liver Oil from Standard Process in large doses, is what finally did the trick. I followed a plant based diet for two years which aslo helped tons, but turmeric and ginger didn’t touch my inflammation. Apparently omega 3’s are the best anti-inflammatory out there. And yes I cut out all gluten and sugar. 🙂

  86. Yvonne says:

    This article is so good! I too suffered from all kinds of ailments including depression and IBS! I started adding more whole food fruits and veggies to my diet by adding Juice Plus (encapsulated fruits and veggies). And have been for 12 years now!. JP+ is backed by clinical studies, including one on systemic inflammation. I feel fantastic, and I crave fruits and veggies! Thank God, because in reality we can never get enough of this good food in our bodies! This company even gives Juice Plus to kids for free when accompanied by an adult. So Grateful! Check out my website for more info-

  87. Celine Huggins says:

    What a great article, I can think of many fitness friends who should read this . Cx

  88. Ann says:

    I agree with all of the sentiments here! I had Crohn’s Disease for years, an autoimmune disease that affects the digestive system. After multiple surgeries and gulping down tons of horrid medication, I choose to take my health into my own hands. I began working with an energy healer who helped me to literally ‘drain’ my body of old traumas and baggage. I also began eating an organic, Paleo diet. My gut has responded beautifully to this way of eating. We choose only grass-fed meat and include fresh juices in our diet everyday. I also consume a mug of bone broth every day because it’s incredibly nourishing and hydrating. I do yoga most mornings of the week. I’m happy, healthy and continue to evolve to release the physical and emotional ‘offenders’ to my body. Disease is such a blessing! It taught me more than anything I could have imagined!

  89. Jenn says:

    I agree with you 100% I believe people are unaware and it is so important to educate them. As an RN with a holistic certification I am on a similar path. Thank you for all you do. Jenn

  90. Leese Connery says:

    Thank you for this post. Nearly a year ago I was diagnosed with fatty liver disease. I have been sober almost 20 years. Tests proved no hepatitis of any kind. Most ne was caused by fried foods, fatty foods, fast foods, gluten, sugar, caffeine, hormones in meats, preservatives…the list goes on. I gained 130 -pounds from taking Lyrica

    several years ago.
    The day before I went to see my new doctor I had no symptoms. The day of the appointment my belly swelled lookng luke I was 8 months pregnant.. I had severe pain n my abdomin and left side.
    Thank God almost 14 montjs earlier I had started to change my diet. I had lost 118pounds and I.was still in pain. I started juicing.. Total weight loss 130 pounds. Gluten free, caffeine free, bread chang d all adpects of my life. I was also diagnosed with fibromyalgia over 18 years ago. Each day is a new beginning…

  91. Jane Incao says:

    I agree with everything! I have been working on getting my gut healthy and have eliminated all (sugar, processed foods, gluten, caffeine, alcohol) but a drop of dairy—whose days are numbered. LOL. Another great way to reduce inflammation is to sleep while grounded to the earth. Have you heard of Earthing.com. It’s pretty great! I have been doing it for years and I sleep deeper. Anyone who doesn’t dream in my opinion is not sleeping deep and that’s not good. Earthing with a grounded beauty pillowcase will get you dreaming again! LOL

  92. Tera Lumeyer says:

    I loved this article Kris and a lot of other stuff of yours. I get you in my email so I’m listening all the time and learning. The hardest thing is trying to eat right for me. It’s challenging but thanks to you it’s made more simple!

  93. Ava says:

    REALLLY?! HERE?!

  94. sandra medina says:

    hello Chris! i’ve been following you recently, my sister forwarded me one of your blogs.

    Im a starter in many things, but listening to my body is the key, and also, a good catch of trustful information is simply a relief!

    I didnt know about yeast at all. Is it exactly the same if I eat it raw, activaded seeds I mean?

    hello!

  95. JG says:

    I just had my physical and everything was normal exept inflammation. It was at 25 and the range is supposed to be 0-15. I’ve been having lots digestive issues since last August and was also tested positive for SIBO. I’m wondering if I should complete an extensive food allergy test to figure out what’s causing the inflammation. Any thoughts I advice would b greatly appreciated.

  96. Very good article. I’m going through a few of these issues as well..

  97. It’s enormous that you are getting thoughts from this post as well
    as from our dialogue made at this time.

  98. Jim Alford says:

    Hi Kris and all the nice people that write in to Kris,
    (A lot of women writing in, that’s great, I love women!)
    Kris,
    We all love the beautiful positive energy you exude.
    Doesn’t hurt that you are so likable.
    I want to Thank You for all the free information and tips you are giving us to improve our lives.
    I want to come see you speak.
    Will you be touring this year 2015?
    Thanks
    Jim from Cincinnati

    Cheers

  99. Ray says:

    This information is so important to total wellness. Personally I have found that practicing the 10 Essentials for wellness as taught by Michael Ellison of TriVita along with Nopalea to be the best method of reducing inflammation. It worked so well for my wife who was diagnosed with MS that we have since helped 10’s of thousands of people use their products and systems. http://Www.TriVita.com/13194670

  100. San says:

    Thank you so much for all of your hard work and sharing it with the world!! Myself and my family are having many ailments and this is a great place to start!

  101. Coco Indigo Rose says:

    Always good to be reminded. Even though I studied nutrition for 3 years I have CFS so apparently brain telling body it is stressed 24/7. Sometimes staying in balance overwhelming but breaking it down and focusing on decreasing stress makes everything more manageable for me. The follow on effect is I naturally do all the other things recommended on here. Appreciated the fun way it is written and easily accessible to even the lay person. Much Love, Light & Peace Coco x

  102. Parvesh Jagga says:

    Your article is awesome, can u guide me , who can help me plan gluten free diet ?

  103. Sean says:

    Terrible article, just terrible! No mention of grains being the biggest contributor to inflammation. And animal, animal what peer reviewed research says that animal product is bad? Cut the grain/sugar and inflammation drops dramatically.

  104. Lesla says:

    This is the best article I have read on the subject. Short, and full of helpful information. However, the testing you mention can’t be done unless you have a doctor that uses those labs. Most MD’s won’t do that and we don’t really have many options where I live. I do know a doctor that would be willing to look at the results for me, but I hate to ask someone to set up an account with a lab. Not sure how willing he would be.

  105. Jo says:

    Great stuff!!!!! Thanks for pulling all this together. Really driving home the changes I’ve made.

  106. tori says:

    My husband has costochondritis what can we do to treat it, it ducks seeing him suffer it’s almost been 2 years and his chest still gets inflamed.

  107. Coleen Miori says:

    You don’t mention chronic inflammation triggered by chemotherapy. I drink green tea with an added
    infusion of fresh ginger. It helps some in managing pain.

  108. Paige says:

    This is an AWESOME article…….GREAT information, easily accessed…..folks should have NO EXCUSES. Thank you!!!!

  109. Julie deisenroth says:

    Trying to make changes while working 2 jobs! Waiting for retirement to have the time it takes to implement so many changes. Organic food is an hour away, I am alone in wanting to do things different, so sad to see so many sick people in my life. I am on treadmill i cannot get off of just now.

  110. I have chronic eczema. I consider that inflammation. It’s always in the same spot above my ankles on both legs. I keep a mostly plant based diet. Daily wheatgrass shots and green juice, low sugar, no processed foods. I still do coffee and red wine. I can’t give it up. Is there a mantra for discipline? Do you think that could be the cause of it?
    I love your work, energy and message for the world. Thank you for all you to Kris!

  111. maura says:

    We , (regular person) cannot order any test from the links in this article. I believe that should be stated.

  112. annie. oneill says:

    Hi Kris, can you or anyone give me some advise on hives. I have have had them for about 10 months. The specialist told me if you have them longer than six weeks it is then not an allergy. But is then known as chronic uticara and is an autoimmune condition. Six weeks or less it is considered acute uticaria or an allergy. Have been told to just take antihistamines every day. Or try steroids. Any clues?

  113. Katie says:

    This is awesome! I’ve totally been dealing with chronic inflammation and have finally done all the blood work to see my CRP & food sensitives/candida/etc. and now am on supplements and a major diet change. I’m only 21, so being healthy in college was a challenge at first, but now the results are so incredible that it makes turning down the alcohol and junk food easy 🙂

  114. nancy zucker says:

    Hi Kris! I met you at the first Urban Zen training (where I got my 500 hr UZIT certificate:)) and met your mom too! Anyway, you have come such a long way and I love keeping up with your books, videos to hear how well you are doing.
    I need a referral for a NYC professional with East/West knowledge, I guess like a homeopath or someone that can do an overall check up. I have an internist but she is really West and lives in Westchester where I moved away from. I now live on the UWS:)
    My legs feel achy and sometimes at night I think I could have RLS. I am a happy, healthy, 58 year old, teaching yoga (not as much as I like since I moved back to NYC, maybe you have some ideas), working as a business owner/recruiter, not working too hard, nevertheless not out hiking as much as I’d like either!
    SO, who can you suggest for me to start with?
    Thanks and keep going with your sexy this and that!!!
    Namaste,
    Nancy
    914 450 0519

  115. Mia says:

    Kris : PLEASE HELP: My son had a Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy one year ago: The surgeon removed 85% of his stomach so that he could lose weight…my feeling is that he removed TOO MUCH: He has been SUFFERING with Severe and Intractable PAIN: Numbness in his legs,feet,hands: Nothing seems to help: he has a hard time eating-losing 160 pounds and he looks VERY SICK> The biopsy of his legs indicate that he is suffering from Small Fiber Neuropathy: The oral vitamins are not getting processed into his small stomach and he is losing feeling in his body…he is only 28 yrs old… please help…..thanks…..

  116. Dianna says:

    Thank you for this great article. I needed to remind myself. Your writing style and passion are great companions!

  117. Iris says:

    Very helpful indeed, dear Kris, I was diagnosed with breast cancer last year, Luckily, after the first shock of course, it was a grade 1 stage cancer with E+ – relatively easy to treat.
    BUT, of course, I wanted to know the root cause. And guess what, I had a 10 year carreer of allergic issues and stress, chronic Inflammation over 10 years so to say.
    After the Diagnose I started to reduce stress and eat more vegetables (although I led a healty life already, there is always improvment). In a short, I love your books and positive engergy to say YES to life

  118. Robert says:

    Love it. The perfect list.

  119. Renee Korszoloski says:

    Thanks Kris! I’ve been dealing with a cancerous brain tumor for the last almost three years….two resection surgeries later….but just finding the time to really read your posts and finding extremely helpful…along with your green juices, which I’ve been doing for quite some time. My biggest challenge right now is dealing with stress and trying to cope with this diagnosis…again….and have decided to see a therapist. I do have your book, Crazy Sexy Diet, and will now read the entire book 😉

  120. Kristin LaValley says:

    Holy Hell, YES! I have major inflammatory issues. I’m over it! Thank you for your courage and strength. I have been reading your posts, blogs, emails and omg~ everything for over a year and THIS spoke to me in evey way! I suffer from many autoimmune disorders and inflammation issues. You have been my saving grace. This Facebook post from you is my saving grace. Thank you. I wish I could meet you~ I just want to hug you. You have value Kris Carr~ and are loved.
    Big hugs~ Muwah!

  121. Bella says:

    Dear Kris..if you happen to read,

    I am a young woman and I’m really stuck.

    When I came across your teachings I felt so empowered yet unfortunately I still remain really sick.

    It seems that I cannot enjoy lush healthy foods, mainly fruits and vegetables because it makes me immensely bloated and gives me a lot of pain. Foods that are raw and with the skins left on make it all the worse. I have to hide my body because I look like I am in the late stages of pregnancy..all because I am eating well. I am in constant discomfort and always fatigued. I also suffer with migraines.

    For reasons I do not understand, I seem to fair better on processed, white grains as they just don’t give me the same discomfort. But then there is no nutrition there and I want to eat to nuture myslef body and soul

    Investigations have shown ‘low level chronic inflammation’ in my gut but doctors in the UK won’t take this further and just want to give me a concoction of IBS meds. They say these low levels of inflation are normal.
    I’ve experienced a life of hard circumstances and I’m trying to make it better but I’m some what limited when my health is this way and food (well the good stuff) seems to make me sick.

    I’ll continue to try and do the right things and hope that answers are out there.

    With love, B xx

    • Ava says:

      I would continue the healthy lifestyle Kris suggests. Maybe add digestive enzymes when you eat. Sometimes you can take the digestive enzymes when you didn’t eat so they can ‘digest’ the stuff stuck on the intestinal walls and clean that up in between meals. They work wonders for me

  122. Heather Briese says:

    Great website, very helpful.

  123. Jorge says:

    Thank you a lot for your advices.

    I have psoriasis and I am trying a bit to improve my focus of life.

    Hugs =D

  124. Suzan says:

    Hi Kris,

    it’s regular excercise that I am struggling with. I know when I come to transform that pattern I will be a new person and I am so looking forward to and longing for that. This article brought me closer to this transformation because the word “couch potato” slapped me right in the face. I enjoy excercise so much and I am very active but when I chill out I chill out too long and get into a rut. I am taking that “slap” and welcome the clarity. Looking forward to this new life that is on its way through this clarity. Thank you for sharing, it had a tremendous effect on me. Greetings from Hamburg, Germany your way and lots of love!!! Suzan

  125. Lori says:

    I have known about this information since 2009 and I am a clean eater. I check my pH regularly and I am in overall good health. However, just recently I have cheated a bit and have been experiencing some stomach issues. I know what it is and need to get back on track…so this was a good reminder. My pH is a bit acidic right now and I know that means I am magnet for disease so I need to fix it with food. I know what to do and am working on it. I want to have the IgG food Antibodies test, but my challenge is that I live in Tampa, Florida and I have been challenged to locate a integrative MD or naturopath in my area. If anyone reading this knows of a good integrative MD or a naturopath they can recommend…that would be so helpful. Thanks.

  126. Mary Sankus says:

    WOW! Thank U Kriss – great content – have taken the time to read this & the support articles you have written. My situation is that I am conscious about the food I eat – been working on myself to diminish the self-imposed stress – but it may be too late for me on the effects of chronic inflammation. It is painful to move. I just read “Sitting kills – Moving Heals” & fealing fear – I do make myself walk on the beach & d easy stretches – but the decline in mobility has me settling for a minimum wage job — I believe the Life Force Yearns for more. You have bravely resurged. I am 67 & live alone.

  127. Nicki says:

    Kris, you need a print option on all your blog and FB posts. I want to print this up and take it to bed with me to read.

    Nicki

  128. JO says:

    Interesting article. Just helped me consider what I’m eating and how it is effecting my body and my mood. Thank you.

  129. Muffie says:

    This resonates. In my mid-50s now, I’ve been in the ER 3 times in the past 3 weeks with new anaphylaxis responses to heaven-knows what. Am completely overwhelmed and reacting to *everything*. Have no idea what to eat. Known allergies to most seeds, nuts, and now suspect gluten. Looking for help 🙁

  130. jennifer sigafoose says:

    yes i like this article. i have cidp and back of legs calves have been hurting more. hands are hurting more. numbness. do u think and i will call neourologist magnesium 500 mg. thanks for any advice. rzjjt5@sbcglobal.net south bend indiana.

  131. Ann Gibbon says:

    Hi Kris- here is an alternative to Pro- biotics- Sauerkraut and other fermented foods! If you advocate natural ways to stay healthy you also want to include plain yoghurt! Enjoyed this article!

  132. Sarah says:

    Dear Chris,
    This message is THE message of how what goes in, comes out. I have followed your smoothie and diet plans for a few years with massive success. I have battled Crohn’s Disease for 10 years. For 9, I battled doctors that have no understanding of nutrition. I fought many with the sentence ” How can you say nutrition plays no role? When what comes out is a problem then what’s goes in must also be a problem. ” No doctor would agree. I saw this from a very simple view. Until I read your book. 5 years ago I was dieing. Every doctor said they had never seen a case like mine and they had no idea what to expect. I was 90 pounds, hair was gone and simply ugly. Then I read your book and saw your movie. Everything changed. I am blooming. A whopping 110 pounds, more hair than I know what to do with and simply glowing. My fiance is also a great fan. All health issues simply disappeared. So thank you, beautiful Chris. You saved yet another life. Or 2. We kiss you. And we attempt

  133. Kris, great article. I love your work reporting on the importance of reducing chronic inflammation in the body because inflammation is the root of so much disease and a blocker to well-being.

    One critical thing that I would add here is the importance of flossing and overall oral health — the mouth is often the root of inflammation and elevated CRP levels throughout the body.

    If you work to reduce inflammation in your body but neglect your mouth, you’ll never be able to outpace inflammation in the mouth.

    – Dr. B

    • Jessica says:

      Does anyone have tips for the detox period as far as the emotional aspect and physical symptoms that arise? I started a new job and do not have the option to take time off. How do you keep your motivation up to stick with these new lifestyle changes when the desire to revert back to old habits creeps in?

      Thank you!

  134. Beth Frasier says:

    Thanks for this article, great information!

  135. Kathy ford says:

    DX with ms and ulcerative colitis…no meds for quite some time, currently enduring a uc flare. Trying to avoid meds

  136. tricia picken says:

    Hi Kris,

    I have interstitial cystistitis and my bladder feels so inflamed. I think you’re awesome. can’t seem to get to the bottom of it. please help. tricia

  137. Chrissy says:

    Hi Kris,

    Thank you so much for this and all your other articles on here! It’s really helped my life improve with the chronic diseases I currently have.

    2 years ago, I stopped all gluten, fast food and processed foods. Also, I switched all of my cleaners, beauty products and soaps to natural materials. Last year, I stopped all soda (diet and regular) and added in a lot more veggies into my diet. I still eat meat for some lunches and dinners, but the veggie portion usually outweighs the meat portion. Managed to eat purely vegan for 4 days while on vacay. It’s sooooo yummy! I’m going to try to incorporate more vegan meals in the future.

    I’m currently working on cutting out all dairy on everything but cheese. The switch to almond milk, dairy free butter, almond yogurt and coconut ice cream was easy but some reason, the cheese switch is really hard on me. If anyone has any tips or recommendations for switching out the cheese, it would be greatly appreciated.

    Also, I’ve started yoga and weekly affirmations. Both are incredibly relaxing yet empowering at the same time.

    Good news though. After all of these changes, my asthma is a lot better! I average about 0 – 2 hits per day (usually due to running into smokers, blarg) and if I do get a flare up, I can manage to work through it without being glued to the couch. Also, I haven’t had an ER visit in over 2 years! Before, the ER nurses and doctors knew me by first name, lol.

    All of these changes are totally worth it. Thank you so much for your articles!

    Love and Light,
    Chrissy

  138. Silvia says:

    Thank you so much for this post and all your posts, indeed!

    I found it very helpful to understand why I am having multiple and recurrent signs of inflammation in my body. I have been always allergic since I was little, having different immune system manifestations over the past 35 years, skin dermatitis, rosacea, digestive issues, and pain in my legs due to inflammation of my ligaments. A recurrent mistake I have been doing is not having enough patience to let my body readjust and heal itself, I always end up at a regular doctors office and taking prescriptions to work on symptoms instead of the underlying cause. Even though my traditional doctors are good and nice people, my intuition and readings like this are encouraging me to seek an integrative medicine specialist.

    I really like the way you present information in your blog posts, books and videos. It is very clear, funny, laid terms. I am thankful I found you one day listening to Hay House Radio.

    Thank and God bless you.

    xo,
    Silvia

  139. Kim Frayne says:

    Thanks Kris…
    Always great to be reminded to steady on xo

  140. June McGouldrick says:

    Thank you so much for the information. I have recently been diagnosed with an allergy to Linalool and am desperate to find a way of living with this and becoming healthier.
    Regards
    June

  141. Sergio Valentin says:

    Great article here. Thanks.

  142. Mary says:

    Thanks for some insights!

  143. Sandra Grupp says:

    I was diagnosed with Celiac Spru in 2009. Although my house & diet are Gluten free, I still have food reactions. I seem to be playing food police all of the time. I found your information helpful. I will seek out your website and books.
    sandy

  144. Lindsey says:

    My husband has chronic inflamed epididymis (for the last 8 months). He has had an ultrasound and cat scan. They did find 2 cyst, but there is nothing really they can do. They gave him antibiotics to take for about a month, but they did not help. They just advised him to take advil and live with the pain. He does need to loose some weight and is stressed with work and a new baby (aren’t we all? 🙂 Has anyone had this problem? Any ideas for what could be causing this or what could help with the pain? Thanks!

    Lindsey

  145. SYLVIA PUENTE says:

    My son is 9 years and for over 1 year has been suffering from inflammation of the eyes. He sees an eye doctor, rheumatology and renal. They are not able to find the source of the inflamation. My son has been on steriods and pressure meds to help him but he has glacoma and catarats as side effects. I don’t know what to do any more i feel scared and dispret to help my baby.

    I ask anyone if you able to help us please do!!!
    Sylvia and Joey

  146. Hello Kris,
    I love your attitude and info on healthy living!

    I had chronic, heat-related edema for 24 years and I am 44. In the last year and a half, I went gluten-free. That showed some improvement with the inflammation. But, after a cleanse earlier in the year, I decided that I would move it up a notch by cutting out dairy, too, and reduce my coffee intake to see if I could attain an “edema free summer”. And, I only had about 2 days during this entire summer thus far of major inflammation compared to 6 out of 7 days of the week!

    However, my naturopath found this week that I am still having chronic inflammation through a blood test, but at least I have made an improvement from the ankles down! My candida imbalance has improved. And because it has she found unwanted bacteria hanging out in my blood. So, on we go getting closer to a healthier self.

    I have now decided to go vegan from pescetarianism and swap java for yerba mate’ to see if I can get greater health in the digestive arena.

    Thank you for all the wonderful guidance and for sharing all of your learning with us!

    ~ Lorelei

  147. Leland says:

    Howdy! I simply want to offer you a big thumbs up for the excellent information you have got right
    here on this post. I am returning to your web site for more soon.

  148. Sofia says:

    Hi Kris,

    Found your site a couply of weeks ago and follow you on FB and are reading more and more on your site and blog! Love it – your energy is a great push and help to keep me heading in the same direction : )

    I’m more and more in to juiceing and Rawfood, after being diagnosed with colitis ulcerosa and told I need to be on medecin for ever and what I eat doesn’t matter…… by the doctor!

    I just have one question after seing your Jucing – I tend to blend my with water is that ok or better do just dring the show? Does the oxygen “eat” the good enzyms? I don’t have a juicer jet but do them with my handmixer and put them through a sieve.

    Keep up the fun and positive work!

    Cheers
    Sofia

  149. And here are the top 10 Foods to Reduce Inflammation, according to the many studies.
    http://zesterdaily.com/cooking/top-10-foods-to-decrease-inflammation/

  150. Thank you for this well rounded article addressing many approaches to reducing inflammation!

  151. Jamie MIranda says:

    GREAT GREAT Article. It was full of useable and easy to understand information. THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!

  152. Hi Kiris,
    I loveeeeeee this! Great information. I have recently found out I have Candida and have really been focusing on my gut and immune system. I love you so much and thank you for all that you do.
    Tracy

  153. Debra Ryherd says:

    I know that I need to do this but I only do it for a few hours or a few days and then go back to my old ways. Why is it that I cannot make the changes I know I need?

  154. Lynette Myers says:

    Great article! Unfortunately, I don’t have access to a GP that can just do all these tests as the NHS in England is quite restricted in what they can do. I have started taking charge of my health problems, of which I have many! Every blood test they give me says inflammation and they don’t know where and don’t really investigate too much.

    I take so many meds. I have some Chronic illnesses. Restricted finances as well don’t help, but I am trying! I will read all about your recipes etc. and look forward to finding things that really help me.

    Thanks again!

  155. Sara says:

    I have erosions in my colon but the inflammation and pain has reduced since I started taking aloe vera. Amazing! I live in the tropics and here we often have a bacteria called Helicobacter pylori that attacks the stomach. Recently I was diagnosed with it but don’t want to take antibiotics to cure it. Any idea would be most welcome. I can’t take acids, lemon, apple cider or anything acidic because or the erosion in my colon. Thank you!

  156. Marski says:

    I am surprised that Kris didn’t mention being barefoot on the ground… Much research has been done and has demonstrated the great benefits of being barefoot on dirt, grass, sand or concrete. I have heard it said to be one of the most powerful ways to reduce inflammation. The negative ions that come off the earth are very healing. 🙂

  157. Jane Gerhardt says:

    I found adding milk kefir grains to my diet really helped. I bought a small amount online and make fresh kefir every day. It has helped my stomach tremendously!!

  158. Sue Van Raes says:

    Couldn’t have said it better myself, Kris. Every single one of your points is so critical to reducing inflammation. Thanks for posting!

  159. Susan Stevens says:

    Thanks Kris! I needed this!

  160. Amy says:

    Hi Kris. Great article. I was diagnosed with IBS and my dr believes it caused by bad bacteria in the gut so he wants to treat with a specific antibiotic for 3 weeks followed by a high fiber diet and daily probiotic. I’m a little apprehensive about taking an antibiotic. Any advice would be greatly appreciated

  161. Here are the Top 10 Foods to Decrease Inflammation, according to Dr. Jeanne Wallace, PhD in nutrition.

    http://zesterdaily.com/cooking/top-10-foods-to-decrease-inflammation/

  162. paul says:

    I just wanted to thank you for this article. I’ve had some health challenges for about the last year and a half, mainly myofascial pain and vertigo. There is no doubt what we put into our bodies and the way we live our lives have a much greater impact than most of us realize. I just started an elimination diet about ten days ago and the changes I have been feeling and observing have been positive. Number one, the blemishes on my skin from both acne and psoriasis are clearing up.

  163. STP Biotech says:

    Heya i’m for the first time here. I came across this board and I in finding It really helpful & it helped me out much. I’m hoping to provide something again and aid others such as you aided me.

  164. Hercy Hallenbeck says:

    Subject: Animal Meat: Do agree with you if your refer to Scavenger Animals and Fish, which add toxic matter to your body and contribute to inflammation.
    Otherwise: Organic Lamb, Goat, Beef and Poultry plus Fish add all of the essential Amino Acids (Plants do not), All amino acids must be present at the same time before they can be utilized as protein.

    People who consume Scavengers, Pork and the long list within the Fish, Beef and Bird family blind writers to become champions for vegetarians, while ignoring the benefits of healthy meat.

  165. Sheila Blake says:

    I appreciated fining this article since I am facing one health challenge after another this year and am realizing the connection with inflammation. I have a high stress job but am starting organic veggie smoothies and probiotics. I am wondering, what do you thinkg about the use of aspirin or other NSAID to kickstart my progress? I recently read another article that daily is associated reduced cancer risk. Thanks.
    Sheila

  166. Hi Kris,
    I would like to express gratitude and thank you so much for your inspirational journey as a cancer thriver. I, myself, am a thriver from borderline ovarian cancer and was introduced to your book shortly after my diagnosis. I have since followed your website as I finally found support I could related to. As you can imagine, not very many women are crazy sexy cancer survivors at the ripe old age of 30. I have just started taking my journey towards health and wellness as a result of watching ‘Hungry for Change’. I am grateful for everyday my feet hit the ground as I work towards better health and a holistic self. I congratulate you for having the courage to face this head on and helping others in their own discovery.

    Many thanks

  167. Jen says:

    I heard you speak at Hay House event in NYC so I bought crazy, sexy, diet and promptly put it aside. Then I broke it out 10 days ago, went to the farm stand and have been green juicing, gluton free, dairy free caffeine free and meat free for 10 days. I cheated this morning and had a coffee and felt like crap all day!! I am happy I did though, it reinforced what it feels like to feel well. I don’t think I really knew what that felt like before. Thanks!

  168. Helen O'Reilly says:

    This is great. I was following the diet but will be stocking up more on the natural prebiotic and probiotic list to give it a boost. Thank you. 🙂

  169. Bonnie says:

    I am 42 years old and I was diagnosed with with rhuematory arthritis, lupus and mixed connective tissue disease over the past 15 years. I have been on just about every medication out there. Sometimes they work for awhile then stop. And I move on to the next. I am in constant pain and very tired most of the time. After a trip to Mayo clinic left me without any real answers I decided to start juicing, eliminated meat and greatly reduced carbs. I am desperately trying to find ways to reduced the massive amounts of inflammation in my body.

    • Jenni says:

      I had always a lot of pain in my upper-back for unkown reasons. Some day i came across the tip to eat more plant-based, whole, nutrient-dense foods like you described above as point number 1. Doing so while working out and doing lots of exercises for my upper back has helped me to reduce the pain almost that it’s gone now. The pain might have come from living too much of the “couch potatoe” lifestyle, because when i started to exercise i felt soo much better and the pain was instantly reduced. Also, i am going to take advantage of your tip to rest and relax more, because i feel like i should get more sleep at night. Thanks!

    • Marski says:

      You may want to try having your bare feet touching dirt, sand, grass or concrete of 30 mins a day (more if you can) and see if you notice a difference. This is called ‘grounding’ or ‘earthing’ and is said to reduce inflammation. It is free and you have nothing to loose by trying it. 🙂 You can sit and read a book while doing this, you don’t have to be walking around barefoot.

  170. christine says:

    I thought you would like to know that while I was ungoing an operation for Stage I cancer, one of the nurses at the hospital recommended that I check our your book. I’m following her advise.

  171. Asenath says:

    Love letter from a crazy sexy fan in Utah…

    I love this! Especially when you talk about focusing on gut health and the simple steps to reducing inflammation.

    I have your first book, LOVE IT!!!!!!! Cannot say that enough.

    You inspire me girl. I love your recipes, your style and shee whiz, girl, you make me laugh each time I open it! 🙂 I will keep on fixing food the kris carr way… and do it a little more often thanks to this post!

  172. Nicole says:

    Thank you for this valuable information, I’m going to print it out for safe keeping.. I’ve been using ibuprofen to relieve inflammation, but I’d much rather focus on some more natural solutions to my problems. Thanks!

  173. Adriana Plocinski says:

    Kris, I love this article. I have been folloiwng you since your first documentary. I am 5 years cancer free! I followed your plant based diet and juicing after having twins with breast cancer. I eventually strayed and lost focus and commitment. I am happy to say some of that focus was swept away by having a third baby, post cancer and Tamoxifen (miracle #3)! I am now going to get back on the health wagon, with the goal of losing weight and healing inflammation. Question for you: have you heard of Isagenix? This company offers nutritional supplements in the form of both vitamins and shakes, for both meal replacement and better nutrition. The shakes are whey protein (gluten and soy free). They also offer a ton of other products, including Isagenix Greens. In one scoop, you get the recommended servings of vegetables, antioxidants, rice fiber and probiotics to support healthy digestion. Wondering if you know anything of this company and the products? Loking forward to another cycle of detoxing and feeling better! Thanks for the reminder and tips!

  174. Sam says:

    Hi Kriss,

    I was wondering if you have heard about the ALCAT test. It’s a test you can do with your blood that can tell you what you are sensitive to. Any feedback about this?
    Thanks!

    • Ava says:

      I took the Alcat test. My understanding is, they take the blood and see what things trigger the white blood cells to react to it. The different allergies will show up by what makes the white blood cells react to each introduced food. I had the small one done ($599.00) just for the foods, nuts, oils, dairy etc. The big test cost somewhere around $1000, but it checked food coloring etc. They list the foods you are not allergic to in green, like which meats your body likes, nuts, grains, vegetables, fruits. The yellow column will tell what you have a mild allergy to and the red column will list the severe allergies. They also give you a program to ‘let things back in’ after you’ve been off of them for awhile. I thought it was very informative and I have followed it loosely and had improvement.

  175. I completely can relate to this post….and agree with it.

    I started on an ANTIOXIDANT-rich diet….more ORGANIC fruits & veggies + groceries, FREE-RANGE chicken and beef, etc. AND STARTED DRINKING MONAVIE MX Juice as my supplement. I have never felt better. Fighting inflammation has been key to me feeling 100% better – from my sleeping habits, to my waistline, to my energy level……amazing transformation.

    THE KEY TO KEEPING AMERICANS HEALTHY IS IN OUR DIET! BOTTOM LINE!!!!!!

  176. Denise says:

    Thank you so much for the information. I am the process of recovering from surgery related to bulging disks and bones spurs along the spine in my neck. I am only in my 40’s and have advanced arthritis of the spine. Dietary options and supplements at this point are my best bet in slowing down the progression of this condition and reducing inflammation. I wished I had taken time to research the foods I ate years ago…it may have made a difference. Your tips confirm what I have been researching.

  177. Tonya Wallace says:

    I am suffering from chronic inflammation, my sister was just diagnosed with lupus disease which we know is an autoimmune issue, my mom has gout, my grandmother had arthritis and I have had aunts uncles and cousins with numerous kinds of cancer..so I know that I need to get my diet and health under control asap…
    I just want to say I am so glad I found your website it has been very helpful in my journey to becoming an icon of health for my family
    Thank you for this article
    Tonya Wallace. . . . AKA Skinnygirl2013

  178. Hi, great article on something I’m trying to learn more about. Thanks so much for doing a post about this!!
    I already know I have thyroid issues and adrenal fatigue. I suspect I have inflamamation and food allergies too, and am trying to get all this stuff under control. I just moved to a smaller town and am having a hard time finding a doctor to help me with this, much less an integrative type physician. Any ideas are welcome. I went to the metametrix site, but it looks like these are tests your doctor has to request. Is this right?

  179. I could have sworn I posted this comment yesterday, but my question is this: Is it still worth it to juice if I can’t juice organically? My husband and I are really trying to save more in other areas so that we can spend more comfortably on all the healthiest of foods, but I hate paying retail and frankly right now I buy what’s on sale, organic or not. Is it still better to juice than not juice if some produce is organic and some is not? I’m always on the fence about this and *hoping* the negatives of conventional produce are outweighed by the positives of juicing, but I’m never 100% sure. Thanks!

  180. Great summary. Low grade inflammation triggered by wrong foods is not yet recognized by the mainstream, we neet to get this information out.

  181. Jaime Stampflmeier says:

    I am trying to figure out which probiotic to try out. I currently use an over the counter one but would like to try a better one from the list without suffering any side effects. I tried the Dr. Ohirra pills in the past and I was doubled over in cramps/discomfort for days. So if I have a more sensitive stomach which of the above is best?

  182. Pia says:

    Great stuff. Thanks, Kris!

  183. anysteph says:

    Hear, hear. I’ve been shocked to realize the role that stress alone was playing in my health. I don’t think I ever *really got* how powerful it is until now. Briefly, I have some congenital spinal issues. They are not very serious in the scheme of things; some naturally fused vertebrae and a spinal curve so mild it doesn’t even rate at scoliosis. But, all my adult life, I have become used to some degree of pain. In the past few months, it seemed I’d taken a step function down: I was in serious pain all the time. I have a very, very clean diet and do all of the things Kris says here except for… stress. I was still working 50-60 hours/week at a doomed start-up, an emotionally toxic environment.

    Well, I just up and quit my job. Didn’t change anything else. I spent a month not working and now have a contracting job that I have self-limited to 32 hours/week. And guess what? No pain. None. This is the first time since age 18 that I have NOT worked crazy hours and the first time in my adult life with no pain. If that’s how stress was manifesting on the outside of my body, think of what my cells looked like! I don’t care if I make less money; I’m not selling my health (literally selling my body, if you think about it) ever again. I cannot believe the difference just working less and having more control over my time has made in my health.

    Now I just have to work on my bruised ego from not being in a “powerful tech” position in organizations that hire me – which is far easier than living in pain, let me tell you! 😉

  184. Spot on with your advice Kris. If I follow these tips in my daily lifestyle, my asthma and eczema are significantly better. As soon as I get out of this routine for whatever reason, things can flare up again. The more we can integrate this good practice into our usual lifestyle the better equipped we will be to resist the times when this is less easy to follow.

  185. kimberly Porter Dowie says:

    Please check out my website. This type of gardening will change the world. President Clinton is an advocate of The Tower Garden!! Thank you.

  186. Dana says:

    Hi Kris!

    Thanks for your great articles. What do you believe/know about our ability to heal from food intolerances/allergens? I read your article on healing our gut recently, thought you might have some insight into this. If we were to heal our gut through a plant-based lifestyle, can we eliminate food intolerances?

    Kind regards,
    Dana

  187. Iris says:

    I started making changes about 2 months ago. I have mixed connective tissue disease and therefore I don’t need to eat anything that can increase any inflamation, so far I’ve eliminated all dairy except for 2 things and I need to find a replacement for them, I still use half/half with my coffee and I use whey protein powder. I stopped using sugar substitute, I use agave instead, and started with green juice and green smoothies. I now use seltzer water instead of diet soda. I’m working on making all the right changes, I’ve also started buying organics but I’m having a lot of trouble finding organic cucumbers.

  188. Negative emotions like fear, anxiety, anger, hatred, jealousy, bitterness, unforgiveness, guilt and self-hatred all raise stress hormones in the body. And chronic stress suppresses your immune function and promotes inflammation.
    Dealing with negative toxic emotions is critical to healing, along with a massive diet and lifestyle change.

    Also biopsies and surgery can be a double-edged sword.
    50% of cancers (including skin) are cured by surgery alone, but the other 50% aren’t.
    As it turns out, the inflammation created by the body to heal a surgical trauma can also be a highly permissive terrain for cancer.

    Research at John Wayne Cancer Institute in 2004 demonstrated that breast cancers that are biopsied several weeks before removal resulted in a 50% greater incidence of metastases in sentinel nodes, than those who had no biopsy, only surgery.
    This may be the result of cancer cells leaking out of the biopsied tumor which are then fueled by inflammation response of the the would healing process.

  189. Leanne says:

    Wow..the Universe has been sending me many messages lately about inflammation (this article being one of them!), and I see myself with many indicators this could be behind some of my unresolved health issues. I have done so many things to heal around diet, cleaning up my thoughts, and growing spiritually, and still some issues hang around, and new ones are popping up. I just got tested for food allergies with my Naturopath, I suspect I may have some food intolerance’s/allergies that are hindering my healing. Allergies=inflammation. I hope I am onto something!

    I listened to your podcast with Gabrielle Bernstein yesterday about Meditating in the kitchen. Loved it so much…love your teachings, you are a true inspiration!

  190. Kris I teach parents who have children (very young to late teens) that have learning, behavior and mood challenges how to help their children overcome this without prescribed drugs.
    Parents are amazed to learn about the role that stress and inflammation plays in triggering these problems. They also delighted to discover that their child does not have a ‘disorder’ – a word that mainstream doctors use too often for children who struggle to learn, feel good or behave in appropriate ways. Unfortunately doctors are treating the external symptoms and not the underlying root causes and so millions of children are being medicated, rather than looking for what is causing the stress and inflammation. Once we find and treat the root cause/s, the so-called ‘learning or mood or behavior disorder’ goes away. I am so glad that you are informing others about inflammation. I love the way you write and the amazing information you share. Thanks!

  191. Vicki Benson says:

    Great article. My husband is a chiropractor and I work in the office. I can’t count the number of patients who come in with severe inflammation. I will pass this on.

  192. Mirian says:

    Thank You so much Kris, You are an angel from heaven .

  193. Erin says:

    What a great article! I have had fantastic success over the past year with #5 – reducing toxins in my personal care products. I have struggled with cystic acne since age 9 (I’m now 36), but no doctor ever shared with me how the products they were recommending (Cetaphil, Purpose, Clinique, etc.) could actually do more to exacerbate and inflame my acne versus make it go away. It was EWG’s Skin Deep database and a good friend that led me to start using Ava Anderson Non-Toxic’s skin care line, and my acne has been reduced to a point where it is nearly gone. No more cystic acne for me! The transformation has finally given me the self-esteem I had always longed for! I’m starting to use more and more of Ava’s products and each one that I purchase replaces a toxic product in my home. My skin is more radiant and my home has never been cleaner. I am so happy! Less inflammation AND less clutter sure are a win-win for me.:)

    • Leanne says:

      I am struggling with the acne thing too..did you do anything else to heal this aside from using these skin products? I use organic skin products and am very careful to read up on toxic ingredients- but may have to try this one.

      • Sarah says:

        I have an issue with acne, but it’s entirely hormonal – it occurs at a certain time during the month – and I can feel my face feeling greasier. It’s like clockwork. Every month. I had another problem that I looked up a home remedy for – they said to try apple cider vinegar. It cured the issue I had originally taken it for, but I also noticed the monthly acne blowup didn’t happen this month. It’s only been a month, going to wait and see what else happens. Hope this is an ongoing cure for me. Too soon to tell though.

      • Jennifer says:

        Hi Leanne,
        I read Loren Cordain’s Paleo Diet book a year ago and have been off all grains, dairy and sugar since reading the book. Changing my diet has had a wonderful effect on my skin and I have had very few breakouts. I have noticed in particular that dairy has a devastating impact on my skin. When in transit on holidays recently I had to make do with a salad that had feta in it. The next day I had two pimples emerge. My skin had been perfection for months and months. My skin is very scarred as a result of acne and I wish I had known the link between dairy and acne 30 years ago when I was a teenager. I have found getting stressed about things is definitely a trigger for acne too. I would definitely recommend giving up dairy/grains/sugar and see what happens.

        My rheumatoid arthritis is gone and psoriasis is almost gone too. I find anything that raises my blood sugar levels really impacts on my inflammation levels/pain in my joints…it can be something as seemingly natural and harmless as a cherry or lychee so I’ve had to keep my fruit levels low too. I also try to stick to low saturated fat meats like fish, chicken and turkey as I find fatty meats impact on inflammation as well.

    • Cirsten says:

      I’ve had furuncles (mostly on my butt) since I was very small, not much more then a baby. I had them all the time and often several at a time. They are something I got from my mothers father, who died age 42, when he was so ill from furuncles, the doctors decided to operate him. They shouldn’t have done that. Any way, I had them for many, many years, untill I was in my mid thirties. At that time I realized that I always got furuncles when I ate pigs meat and that they started to heal when I did not eat anything with pig in it. So I stopped eating pigs meat and ta da! No more furuncles. That’s about 20 years ago now and I have been fine ever since.

      Nobody ever told me that pigs meat could do that (although the German word for furuncles is “Schweinsbeule” which means pigs furuncle and that probably should give you a hint), but I can’t imagine that my grandpa and I are the only ones reacting to pigs meat in that way, so if you have furuncles, see if you can get rid of them by not eating pig.

    • Cirsten says:

      It seams like I can’t post any thing on your site. First I got at message about an internal error and now I get a message that it looks like I’ve already posted my comment. But it doesn’t show up. So here it comes again:

      As a comment to Erins comment I would like to share my experience: I’ve had furuncles (mostly on my butt) since I was very small, not much more then a baby. I had them all the time and often several at a time. They are something I got from my mothers father, who died age 42, when he was so ill from furuncles, the doctors decided to operate him. They shouldn’t have done that. Any way, I had them for many, many years, untill I was in my mid thirties. At that time I realized that I always got furuncles when I ate pigs meat and that they started to heal when I did not eat anything with pig in it. So I stopped eating pigs meat and ta da! No more furuncles. That’s about 20 years ago now and I have been fine ever since.

      Nobody ever told me that pigs meat could do that (although the German word for furuncles is “Schweinsbeule” which means pigs furuncle and that probably should give you a hint), but I can’t imagine that my grandpa and I are the only ones reacting to pigs meat in that way, so if you have furuncles, see if you can get rid of them by not eating pig.

  194. YES! YES! YES! After TWO straight years of CHRONIC pain and inflammation, I finally found someone who could give me an answer!! PARASITES, LEAKY GUT AND YEAST! Which also led to my autoimmune disorder. Finally on the way to healing this thing and hopefully getting out of pain once and for all! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!

  195. Andreana says:

    Thank you for posting about inflammation!!! I’ve been swollen for nearly the last 10 years of my life because of food and environmental allergies I didn’t know I had. I found an amazing allergist that takes a whole body approach – reduce the intake of allergens AND we do frequent blood panels to measure levels like thyroid, kidney, liver function. He put me on a rotation diet to reset my body’s reaction to foods I’m allergic to – it’s gonna take from 2 to 3 years, I believe my future self will thank me. I was wanted to share with you a few great tips about inflammation and some of the stuff I’ve learned along the way. Yeast is a body beating beast!!!! An easy way for removal (after I started eliminating processed sugars) I took a spoonful of oregano oil every night for a few weeks before bed. I’ve also heard grape seed oil helps kill it in the body, too. As for probiotics, I Enzymedica (Digest Gold + Probiotics). I don’t take it daily, though, only when my stomach isn’t feeling great or even before I eat food someone else has prepared to help smooth digestion in case they’ve used something I’m allergic to. Again, THANK YOU FOR THIS ARTICLE!!!! I blog about this very thing that I’m fighting in my own life and having a community to refer back to is a blessing. 🙂 My blog also is http://allergyfeet.blogspot.com – I have lots of recipes for food and homemade products to reduce any and all inflammation from allergic reactions.

  196. Sarah says:

    I will absolutely be trying that vegan penna la vodka.

  197. Lisa Boulton says:

    I love this stuff! It’s where my head is at too. I’ve been seriously working on my diet since I had cancer and this rings true, taking it to another level with inspiration!. I’m trying to make a difference with kids who are dealing with illnesses my children’s book is about stress, diet and feeling loved.
    I would love your feedback. 🙂
    PS Crazy Sexy Kitchen is on my list and soon to be in my kitchen! You’re great, Thanks!
    XO, Lisa

  198. MomLadyOR says:

    I loved this article! I’ve actually been working on this very thing and over the last couple of years figured out exactly what you wrote about. I haven’t lost that much weight (which I could stand to lose), but it’s amazing how much swelling I didn’t know I had. Puffy eyes are gone, ring & watch are loose, no more edema in my ankles, etc. Thanks for sharing your story!!

  199. Cyndi says:

    I stopped all dairy a year ago, and when I have slipped up, my body tells me with aches and pains especially my lower back (it hurts!). I have found cheese is the worst for inflammation for me because it has more concentrated casein in it than all the other dairy products. So to make myself feel better, I just avoid dairy altogether. Dairy is so overrated in this country thanks to the Dairy Association. It all comes down to profits.

  200. I am fighting stage 4 ovarian cancer. The first thing that arrived in the mail after my diagnosis was a Green Star juicer and every book you’ve published and your DVD. All thanks to my brother and his lovely wife Lora.
    Thank you Kris. You are helping me every day. I’ve never been healthier and I’ve never been more sick. You’ve made the learning curve manageable, you’ve given me hope that I can beat this, you’ve given my friends and family a reason to join me in my quest for health and wellness.
    Laura

    • ann says:

      Blessings to you on your journey. I so believe in Kris’ holistic approach to healing. As she says, “let your food be your pharmacy”. Best of luck! Ann

    • Christine says:

      My thoughts are with you during such a difficult time. My mom was diagnosed with the same in Feb 2011 and I sent her Kris’s DVD’s and books too. May you draw on the community and your family as a source of strength and inspiration and know that even people that don’t know you support you.

      • Gia Peterson says:

        God Bless, I very recently found out that I may be in a similar boat – stay strong and don’t give up ever … xoxo

  201. blagoje spaskovski says:

    Aw, this was a really good post. Finding the time and actual effort to make a really good article… but what can I say… I hesitate a lot and never seem to get nearly anything done.

  202. stacy feldmann says:

    Wonderful post and so true about the silent and destructive force of inflammation on our bodies. AlI your suggestions are really important- for me it’s avoiding dairy and yeast and maintaining gut health with aloe vera juice, probiotics and magnesium.

    For me, environmental factors have always been my overriding weakness. I did a lot of travelling as a kid and I think my body was shocked with the changes it experienced (I have observed the same from the rest of my family in terms of the inflammatory type symptoms they developed over time–migraines, arthritis, dermatitis, food intolerances). I was born in an environment that was much cleaner I think–the depths of Southern Africa tends to have less of the toxins, chemicals, fumes, moulds, close quarter living and damp conditions that the developing world has created through big towns and cities which contributes to inflammatory environmental conditions. So on the toxins front, we are looking to get an all purpose steam cleaner which will reduce the cleaning products and also address the environmental toxins in the apartment.

    Your post has really resonated with me in terms of the sedentary lifestyle and stress. In a weird way, both stress and the sedentary lifestyle are both putting my body under more stress and inflammation. So to manage this, I not only need to rest and actively relax more, but I actually need to get active as well!

    I new thing I noticed recently is that when I don’t get my 2 litres of water a day for a consecutive period of time–which I really struggle with over winter, I can go from one cold to another and postnasal drip and sinusitis can set in. Think there must be a link with flushing out of toxins and assisting the body to fight the inflammation??

    Incidentally a great thing for treating sinusitis and other forms of pain and inflammation are infrared lamps. I discovered them through my mother in law. In Germany, infrared lamps are used by new mothers in the wards for the pains after childbirth or for headaches or other aches and pains as the first response, rather than popping a pill. I find it can really help with the inflammation and tension associated with certain pains and definitely beats popping pills–some I which I think may also contribute sometimes to inflammation.

  203. Kathryn says:

    Dear Kris,
    Just a simple thank you for sharing your perspective, resources/links, and logic about wellness. It helps!
    Very best,
    Kathryn

  204. Connie Fletcher says:

    OK…I know this to be true. I’m 63 years old, and about 7 or 8 years ago, I was having a terrible time with both of my knees. I went to the doctor, and he ended up betting me $100 that within 6 months I would be begging him to replace both of my knees because they were so arthritic. That didn’t sound like the kind of party I wanted to go to, so I began looking around for a REAL fix. I went high raw for about 8 or 9 months….quit smoking…lost a bunch of weight….started exercising….and slowly but surely my knees got better. It started getting really cold here in Vermont….started cooking, but stayed vegan. Last summer I broke my right foot and tore the left patellar tendon…got an x-ray on both, and the same doctor came in and said..”I don’t see much on that left knee, but I have good news. You don’t have a drop of arthritis in that knee.” I was so shocked, I never mentioned the $100 bet. But needless to say..I won’t be getting my knees replaced!

    • Paul says:

      Connie (and Kris) , you rock, just the story I was looking for. I am in my early 40s and although I surf, ski and do lots of yoga I have also partied like a banchi (I mean really partied) for way too long, And I have for a couple of years been suffering from terrible tendinitis in my elbows that doctors so proudly refer to as golfer’s elbow (I don’t do or dig golf) and inject me with cortisone to settle down (until it comes back).

      Having had the joy and delight of recently seeing Hungry for Change and then stalking Kris’ sight have embarked on a nutritional approach (including reducing and maybe in due course eliminating the real evils). Just the start of the journey but intuitively know this is going to cure me.

      Thank you

      • Rona says:

        Hey Paul,
        Check out Martha Peterson’s website http://www.essentialsomatics.com. She regularly blogs about how Hanna Somatics can help to reverse chronic musclar tension which leads to a variety of issues like frozen shoulder, Plantarfascitis, IT Band syndrome, arthritis, hip, knee & back pain to name a few. I think you will find this really helpful and complimentary to a nutritional approach.

  205. I’m fighting ovarian cancer. One of the first things to arrive from my brother was a Green Star juicer and every book you’ve published. Thanks for being here for me, even if you don’t know me. I take your advice to heart and I’ve never been healthier-or been sicker-in my life. With your help I’ll beat this.

    • Sara says:

      Hi Laura,
      I also fought ovarian cancer (and a very rare form) 2 years ago, and won the battle, I was 28. I got through surgery and chemo but I was also inspired by Kris to change my lifestyle, and haven’t stopped since.
      I’m sure you will beat it and become an inspiration for many more people!
      I wish you all the best!!!

  206. Nicole says:

    Hi

    I have been an avid reader of yours for a little while now. Although I live in London with the help of the internet I have had no problem following you!

    For the past two years my 21 year old daughter Jessica has been having all sorts of health problems (mostly tummy related) and has now after loads of tests been diagnosed with Crohns.

    I have passed on all your amazing insights and knowledge to her (although she lives away from home at University) and have just sent her a juicer!

    I feel sure her health will improve by following you.

    Well wishes,
    Nicole.

  207. js says:

    Cutting dairy made a huge difference in the way I felt. Unfortunately cheese is one of my loves, so I have fallen prey to indulgences, but switching from milk to almond milk and non dairy creamer and only doing cheese as a treat every few weeks has cleared up my skin, reduced puffiness in my face and given me less headaches.

  208. Rayann says:

    Hi Kris,
    Thanks for the tips, you are awesome!!

  209. Ann says:

    Thank you, Kris! This is totally helpful but I am sort of freaking out about all the bad stuff in products my family uses on a regular basis. How did you weed it all out? Where is a good place to start?

    • stacy feldmann says:

      I have found that there are lots of eco products out there to choose from. It can be hard though as some of them don’t clean as well. There are also completely natural ‘recipes’ for cleaners like lemon juice and water, vinegar and lemon, lemon juice with bicarbonate of soda for tough stuff, or bicarbonate of soda and water as a soaking or cleaning solution. A quick search has brought up this website for instance http://eartheasy.com/live_nontoxic_solutions.htm. I have generally found that if I avoid things with bleaches, synthetic fragrances, sulfates, parabens and petrochemicals, that has had a big impact on the health of my skin, and the amount of respiratory colds and sinusitis, I and my partner have got. Ecover is the brand I use in London, so I am not sure if this is available elsewhere. Or you could go the whole hog and replace everything with an upright steam cleaner, which is what we are considering. It still does not avoid the need to use cleaning products in some areas, but certainly I think is a real toxin free solution

    • stacy feldmann says:

      I am not Kris obviously, but having battled sinusitis and candida for years, found lots of solutions for trying to clear out my environment of toxins, starting with cleaning products.

    • Julie says:

      Ann, I recommend watching Hungry for Change. It’s on Netflix if you have that. http://www.hungryforchange.tv. There was a great recommendation in the movie answering just your question. It says to just start including more healthy items…more vegetables, more fruits, finding organic/healthier replacements for the products you normally use. Try an almond milk instead of diary, etc. Just incorporate new foods slowly, as you learn (and you will learn), and eventually the good/healthy will just crowd out the bad.

      I thought that was one of the best recommendations I have seen. It can just be too overwhelming otherwise.

      Good luck!
      Julie

      p.s. If you have a Whole Foods, you can even go to their customer service and sign for a tour of their store, their products and how to save money when you shop.

  210. lisa bivona says:

    you bet it resonated. I have been ill for over a year, and not one Dr. looked beyond the immediate symptom. I stumbled upon your blog, and have been slowly coming back to life.
    It wasn’t easy starting from scratch but I’m not one to give up. Thanks you, Crazy Sexy Lady!!!

  211. Allison says:

    ALL of this is so important Kris! What awesome information. A few months ago my doctor suggested I might have food allergies so I went no wheat, sugar, alcohol, dairy and caffeine. After three days of headaches BLAMMO! I felt a thousand times better – no foggy brain, no stiff joints. All of these suggestions are so so great. Thanks so much for writing about this! I feel like I learned about inflammation just in the nick of time.
    ps- I phased back a little caffeine and a little dairy on occasion 🙂

  212. Dawn says:

    I was so leary about reading your book when I was first diagnosed with Lymphona. There is nothing sexy about cancer, I thought! Well, there is something crazy and sexy about me, I learned (or remembered). You have helped me to continue my health journey, live it with my husband, and share it with my kids. It is such an exciting way to live. I am a passionate juicer, and my kids will even taste test what I make. It has brought excitement into our home at a time that could have been scary and intimidating!

  213. Hi Kris!!

    I’m so glad I’ve come across your blogs. I think you give amazing and spot on advice. I especially enjoyed your article on adrenals. I feel as though I should fill you in on a little secret. Most people don’t know much or anything about it and others think its witch craft and quackery. Those that experience it know the benefits of it, but may not understand it very much. It has to do with how well your body functions, even if you’re doing everything right. It’s simple really. What do you think would happen if your nervous system had interference that restricted how well the brain and organs and immune system communicate? Have you ever thought of this concept? Most haven’t, I was one if them. So how do we find out if we have interference? How do we get rid of it if we have it? See a chiropractor and get an adjustment. Yep, those guys locate subluxations and remove them so the body can work right. If the nerves that lead to your adrenals are getting squished from a misaligned spine how well do you think your adrenals would work. Not as good as they could if there was no interference. Make sense? If you want to know more or need a referral to a chiropractor that believes in an eat well, move well and think well philosophy (unfortunatly not all chiropractor are created equal) let me know!!!! I work for an amazing chiropractor that refers all over the country and can help make all this make sense, even though I know you get it, you’re a sharp girl!!!! Hope this is helpful and take care! In Health, Shannon

  214. Maria says:

    What about gastric bypass people? We r supposed to eat protein no carbs. Thz protein drinks are full of all kinds of stuff so are the protein bars. We have to keep sugar under 7 grams per serving as well. Seems hard to eat really healthy now. Suggestions?

  215. Hannah says:

    Kris, what do you think about acidophilus pearls as a probiotic? I can’t seem to get any of the brands you mentioned in the UK without it costing much more than I can afford.

  216. Kat says:

    The pills in your medicine cabinet are not just a band aid but are part of the problem. All pharmacuetical drugs cause an acidic environment in the body, which in turn promotes chronic inflammation in the body. A healthy diet and regular exercise are the only way to longevity.

  217. HI Kris, I am so glad you wrote about the importance of rest and relaxation – so many advise sleeping 7 -10 hours at night, but neglect to talk about taking a break to rest during the day. Just slowing down a bit is a huge help to that already stressed system! It sends a completely different message to the body.
    LOVE this post!
    Robin

  218. Haley says:

    I’ve been researching this for the last two weeks. I’ve got such BAD pain in my hips, pelvis and knees. It’s the most severe in the early morning and when sitting/laying down. I am always exhausted and I’ve got “brain fog”. My GP thought I had Rheumatoid Arthritis and sent me for blood work. No RA, but I did notice I had elevated C-Reactive protein levels, which signal an inflammatory issue going on. My mom pointed me in the direction f JJ Virgin’s book The Virgin Diet which discusses how most (if not all) of my symptoms are possible inflammatory responses. She has you cut out her 7 hi-FI (food intolerance) foods for 21 days, and then add 4 of them back in one week at a time to see how you feel upon doing so. She mentions a lot of the same stuff as you do; gluten, dairy, soy, eggs, peanuts, sugar and artificial sweeteners, and finally, corn. She doesn’t have a problem with meat as long as it is organic, free range, etc.

    I happened to see you on a documentary on Netflix and looked you up, and here you are saying basically the same thing she does! I’ve been himming and hawing over whether or not to take the plunge and do an elimination diet to see what is triggering all of this crap, and I keep finding more and more reasons to do so.

    I think I will do it. And hopefully I will feel better!

  219. Jeannie says:

    Thanks for the info and all of the links to the topic of inflammation, I have a lot to learn and to research. What is the name of the urine test that will reveal leaky gut syndrome?

  220. Sam says:

    This has been my health soapbox since reading your book, ‘Crazy Sexy Diet’. And I’ve spent nearly a year learning about what foods are good for MY body and what lifestyle helps the most. As an avid soccer player growing up I was frequently suffering from injuries. Once I hits my 20’s, I felt like I was constantly falling apart, whether it was knee pain, a pulled back, bunions, or whatever the pain I assumed my soccer days were over. So I sat around and did nothing, making it even more difficult to work out when I felt the random urge to get off the couch. Starting this year I gave up glutens, caffeine, and dairy and got serious about staying active. (Eliminating these foods also made huge improvements in my endometriosis symptoms!) Over the past 3 months I’ve starting cycling, yoga, and now after 8 years I’m back to playing soccer. I know how to eat to prepare for a game, I know that ginger helps reduce my soreness and aches after games, I know that sugars will only increase my joint pain during workouts and slow me down. I now am able to pin point pain and ask myself ‘what changes do I need to make today?’ Focusing on eliminating inflammation has been life changing! Thank you!

  221. Katie says:

    Thank you Kris! This is so timely for me. I’ve stopped eating my chief allergen (yeast) for ten days and I feel better and look better. Now I understand better why it always feel better when I do this.

  222. Kris, this is fabulous. As an RN who recovery from fibromyalgia and became a wellness coach after doing all the things you mentioned, I applaud YOU! This is going right on my FB page. The only thing I also had to do was to work out stressful relationship issues and find a sense of home in the world. That’s what I do with women now, look into how they over give, feel unworthy of wellness and keep sabotaging what they know they should be doing because they haven’t embraced the power within them to fill their own needs. Thank- you for this post! It’s fantastic.

  223. Kimberly says:

    G’day Kris! First of all, it’s been awhile since your NYC book signing with Chad but I wanted to let you know what a pleasure it was to meet you both, I really enjoyed the demo and brief chat! I was diagnosed with breast cancer after a routine physical.. I have lost three aunts (sisters) to three types of cancer. Chronic inflammation within the body very often goes unnoticed until much damage has already been done and it contributes to a number of complaints and diseases. This is such an important subject and I believe knowledge is power so thank you for being you and sharing your experience and knowledge with everyone! I swear we must be kindred spirits! 😉 I decided not to tell anyone about my diagnosis, I was determined that this would not be how my story ended and got busy “rewriting”! I lived on the Gold Coast of Australia for six years and that’s where my journey back to health began. I began ferociously educating myself and changing my diet, my habits, personal and household products used, my thoughts, self talk, taking inventory on the quality of my relationship…etc. It didn’t happen over night, and I am still fine tuning as I age but I’m healthier and happier than I’ve ever been and on top of that I really know my body now and I listen intently to what it has to say. Everything is connected so it’s about finding that healthy balance and what works for you specifically. I’m happy to say I am cancer free and working on plans for my walkabout completely around Australia for Olivia Newton-Johns Cancer and Wellness Center in Melbourne. When you love yourself enough to set your own health and wellbeing as a priority, every other part of your life improves!! Brilliant Stuff!! 😉 Take care..be your beautiful self and have an insanely happy week ahead!! x

  224. Liz Diehl says:

    Thank you for all the continued great info. With the help of many I have completely changed my lifestyle and inflammation is a huge component. I’ve been faithfully taking Aloe Gold. A bio available – bio active aloe vera. Super healing to the gut!!! As well, this company has a stellar natural anti- inflammatory It has actually out performed the leading pharmaceutical in 5 clinical trials Dialing down on the chronic inflammation is so important daily, just as you say Kris. Mentioning a product line is probably not what you appreciate here on this blog. But, I simply can’t keep this to myself. It’s about embracing all modalities to stay on a path of health and happiness Looking forward to reaching year 120!!! I am just half way there. Lots to live for!

  225. Laurel Burnham says:

    HI Kris!
    Chronic inflammation: a big area of concern is our teeth and gums! I have found a totally AWESOME routine to add to my dental hygiene. It is the ayurvedic technique of oil pulling. It works like this: I take a nice round tablespoon of organic virgin coconut oil into my mouth, it melts and I swish it around for at least 15 minutes, first thing in the morning, and before I go to bed at night. I’m having my shower, getting dressed, etc. I don’t swallow, but spit it all out. The lauric acid in coconut oil draws all the pathogens, all the bad bacteria and all the plaque right out of my mouth,big time! I follow up with a heaping teaspoon of baking soda dissolved in hot water, right into my water pic. Woohoo! I will be doing this routine for the rest of my life.

  226. Nancy says:

    Great article. I was recently diagnsed with Hashimoto’s and your article explained better thatn almost anything I’ve read how food and toxins affect your body. Also, loved you in “Hungry for Change”. Thank you!

  227. Elizabeth says:

    I learned a number of years ago that chronic inflammation can cause all kinds of issues. I finally learned I have celiac disease, and cut out the gluten. Well, I had also had years and years of horrible seasonal allergy issues and symptoms that were barely tolerable with two prescription medications. Eight years into my gluten free lifestyle, I still notice the seasonal allergens when they are in the air, but I don’t even have enough of a reaction to them anymore to even merit taking an OTC medication for them. I’ve come to believe that once I cut out the gluten, my body’s total inflammation load went WAY down, and now seasonal allergies barely affect it anymore.

  228. Crissie says:

    This is a very timely post. I’ve been a less than healthy vegan for 6 yrs, even though I thought my diet was healthy. I’ve recently been experiencing inflammation-based auto immune conditions (RA, chronic hives, pain), and am ready to finally are the dietary and lifestyle changes that I need to reclaim my quality of life. Thank you.

  229. Claire says:

    Thank you so much for providing the links to the labs for testing. It’s all so overwhelming and I wasn’t sure who I could trust. If I’m going to spend the money out of pocket to test for allergies and gut health I need to know that these tests really work. Thank you!

  230. Karen says:

    I’m have been seeing my NMD for over two years and have adopted most of the things you mention (and more)! I still have an elevated CRP number and can only conclude that there is some environmental toxin that I need to deal with. What recommendations do you have for make up and hair color? I wear very little make up–usually only when going out and I use the hair color products from Whole Foods.

    Keep up the good work! Karen

  231. Katie says:

    This is a good reminder of easy way to be an inflammation warrior. I continue to have extremely high levels of inflammation in my blood tests even after working hard on diet and having a healthy lifestyle and doctors can’t seem to figure out why. I appreciate the additional tips on how to investigate further for other things that might be going on to create my high inflammation levels. This was a great read to start my week off right….

  232. H says:

    If you have a virus that will not ever leave your body, does that mean that you have lost the battle? Is it then just to keep minimazing the inflammation by eating plant-based food etc.

    H from Finland

  233. Stephanie says:

    I love your inspiration, website and emails. I have been struggling this past year to to put myself back together so to speak. I got myself into some real trouble with unhealthy behaviors such as over- exercising, prescription diet pills, OTC diet products and dealing with some personal issues… I crashed into heavy drinking on top of things, this is where spiraling down happened really fast. Thank Gawd I have kids because my angel that watches over me said Stephanie you are going to die if you don’t make some changes. Scary. My first step was to get off of the toxins but it wasn’t even close to being easy.. To make a long story short I did find your page which was extremely inspiring for me. I resonate with a lot of your stuff. I can’t thank you enough for being you & inspiring me with your stories. Making me look into myself & say “Are you slowing down? Are you taking care of you?”
    I know you inspire millions but here is a genuine thank you from one 44 year old lady who needed you.

    • Cheryl says:

      Good for you Stephanie, I wish you well in your continued quest to become whole again. Be your own best friend and treat yourself no different than you would nurture your child.

  234. Liz says:

    Hi Kris!

    Thank you so much for posting this article. Some of the subject matter is scary for me — I’ve put off food allergy tests because I’m nervous about what I’d find — but I’m in my late 20s and and suffering from chronic pain so maybe it’s time to stop being a wuss?

    Keep being awesome!

  235. Jill says:

    Thanks for this, Kris! My mom passed away from cancer a few years ago (as did her brother, and many family members on her side of the family have had cancer, as well), and this was a total wake-up call for me to start getting serious about my health as to avoid a cancer diagnosis in the future. Lately, it has becoming more and more apparent to me how crucial reducing inflammation is in order to avoid cancer. Of course, there are other factors involved, but the more I read, the more I’m convinced that this plays a huuuge part.

    I recently got myself tested for food allergies, and discovered I’m allergic to yeast, and I cringe when I think of all the years I spent eating bread, etc. and what I must have put my immune system through! I was surprised to find out it’s a very common allergy, and most people don’t even realize they have it until they get tested / eliminate it from their diets.

  236. Wendy Irene says:

    I’ve recently started to realize how extremely important our gut health is. I really appreciate the great information you provide us 🙂 I’ve started taking oil of oregano when I feel I need it, as well as S. Boulardii probiotic, and I try to eat 2 cloves of crushed garlic daily.
    I would love to begin switching my makeup to a safer brand. It is overwhelming figuring out where to start. Do you have any brands that you can recommend that work well for you?

    • Wendy, I’m not Kris obviously, but I do know a little about safe makeup brands. 🙂 I make natural skincare (Blissoma) and so I sell side by side with some really great, safe companies. Lauren Brooke Cosmetiques is a wonderful brand that is woman and independently owned. Great products, reasonable prices, very safe. http://www.TheNatureofBeauty.com also carries a wide range of safe makeups. I use Logona and Lavera most often for my powder and blush – they are European BDIH certified natural brands. Couleur Caramel also makes great color cosmetics if you want more intense shades (I use their eyeliner) and RMS Beauty is very well respected for simple, extremely clean, high performance cream blushes and concealers. I have used all of these and really like them.
      I also make seriously natural skincare as I mentioned above, by the brand name Blissoma if you want excellent skin nutrition to go along with your makeup.
      Hope you find what you are looking for! 🙂 I am battling some inflammation in my back lately and have been taking a lot of Chlorella (very helpful for pain, inflammation, and detox), and just added Gaia Herbs Turmeric Supreme to my daily regimen. Yoga at least 3 times a week has been key as well. The pain was so bad I couldn’t sleep more than 2 hours comfortably but with these changes and some acupuncture it is doing better finally. I’m going to have to stay on top of it though. Taking care of yourself well is the best love you can give yourself. 🙂

  237. Ali says:

    Hi Kris,
    Love your post! I continue to battle severe IBS and need to eat a grain free diet plus no sugar/eggs/dairy/soy/alcohol to reduce the pain. I’ve done lots of changes which have put my inflammation markers in “normal” range and that is eliminating the above, eating fermented foods with each meal, JUICING veggies regularly and eating a diet of 50-80% veggies and 50-20% meats plus yoga. I would love one day to eat less meat and more grains for protein. I would love more than anything to liberalize my diet and have a cocktail once in a while! I am going to check out those labs you recommended as I’ve asked my ultra-reputable, NY GI doc to put me on anti-parasitics but he has refused, as well as the GI doc before him. I’m convinced there’s a parasite component so I will now take matters into my own hands and hopefully get more answers…thanks so much for the recommendation. Hugs!

    • Kelly says:

      Hey Ali, did you have any luck finding a good doctor in NYC to do the tests that Kris mentions? I too see a reputable GI doctor and general doc but neither really believe that parasites, yeast, inflammation can be causing a host of health issues I’m going through. You would think it would be so easy to find a good alternate doctor in NYC but I’m having no luck. You can email me too at kellypeppers@gmail.com
      Thanks!!

  238. Dodie Jacobi says:

    NO QUESTION of the truth here! A touch of arthritis is my litmus test for inflammation – a bit of gluten here, a touch of stress there, and I’m in pain. Live life with the checklist you show, and I live beautifully pain free. I’m actually grateful my compass is subtle and not acute. But I do take it seriously as I want each day to be incredible! Thanks for all the fun recipes and spirit – indeed healthy is yummy.

  239. Hey Kris thanks for sharing this empowering info. I was recently told that I needed to be treated for MS but I disagree. What I need to be treated for is food sensitivity and inflammation. Which I can pretty much do myself with help from great resources like yourself. Thank you for sharing your wonderful spirit and advice with us. I eat pretty clean now. But I started a few years ago by eliminating processed foods just because I knew they were not healthy for me and my family.

    But it’s really been a process getting to where I am today. I didn’t just wake up and eat clean. And I still have days when I don’t. But I’m a lot further ahead and I feel 10x better than I did a few years ago when I was eating total garbage.

    And I still don’t have the luxury of eating all organic fruits and vegetables but I eat them anyways. I know for a fact that they’re a lot better for me then boxed foods any day.

    Cheers!
    Michelle

  240. Shannon Steffler says:

    Thank you for posting this! Lots of valuable information. You hit it all on the nail and I look forward to checking out the other links 🙂 I decided yesterday that I was going to put my blinders on and for 1 day (and hopefully more) I’m going to nourish my body so I can feel better. I don’t have any major issues to speak of, but lots of pesky little things that I know are from inflammation… ‘sinusitus’ (junk in my sinuses), a lump in my breast that benign of anything, but obviously shouldn’t be there, a clogged saliva pour that comes and goes on the roof of my mouth (yes, ew) and I’m pretty sure it appears after I eat like crapola, etc. etc. I’m going to be 30 in less than two weeks and though I won’t be super proud of where I’m at besides the fact that I have THEE best family on earth – amazing husband and 5 girls!!! I want to be on the road to health and get rid of my sugar addiction. I REALLY like learning that it’s real and I’m not just crazy and have no discipline whatsoever. Thank you thank you thank you! Keep up that good work Kris. I hope when I learn to walk the walk that I can share this message too. Truth is beautiful.

  241. Kathy says:

    Excellent topic to share! I learned about inflammation 7 years ago when my doctor told me that my chronic inflammation would mean that I would never know my grandchildren. I was only 40 years old at the time. I was so confused, as it wasn’t like I had cancer or something. She explained that it was like microscopic razor blades running through my circulatory system and that over time the cumulative damage would be felt. My doctors tried to help heal my chronic infections, but traditional medicine only exasperated the problem. My life changed when I brought the adequate nutrition into my life. I started taking a very high quality, food based nutritional supplement. Within 2 months I was feeling better. My annual blood work showed improvement in all markers, and the best news was that my inflammation marker was finally in the healthy range. My lifestyle continued to change to include more whole foods and healthy choices. I believe this shift saved my life, and now I will know my grandchildren.

  242. Vivienne says:

    Thank you so much for this! I love when you write about health issues. You have a way of breaking complex info into the understandable!

    Vivienne

  243. Jodie says:

    Thanks so much for this information. I have been dealing with swollen eyelids on and off since October and been to several docs they can’t tell me what is causing it. I have cut out dairy etc I will be cutting out more as well as changing my cleaning products . And I will change the probiotics I am taking to ones you have recommended. Also do you know if any integrative MD’s in houston?

    • Dove says:

      I have dealt with this issue too. It started 3 years ago when my immune system and allergies took a steep deep due to stress and on set of inflammation. I would say I rarely get it anymore. I can give you couple of things that helped.
      I changed my eye make up, Dr Haushka (if spelt right) as my only eye make up. So you save on allergens there, I get a lot less irritation.
      Another great tip, when they do start swelling, blink your eyes a lot and tighten them closed. Do it than look in the mirror a second after you blinked and tightened, you will see the swelling is down. Even short nap will help. It just means you are low on hydration and your body is exhausted.
      Supplements give me the swelling too, so I don’t take them. I remember supplements really irritated my eyes. I eat a healthy variety.
      Also, I became more strict on no gluten, soy, etc…. Daily exercise (big helper), no stress, smile a lot.
      Believing you deserve good, daily affirmations of well being…
      Drink more water. Smiling and laughing hydrates your eyes, so you will notice a positive difference there.
      If this helps 🙂

      • Dove says:

        Also, what help me A Lot is cleaning my eye make up with Aragan oil and q tip. So I time my mascara and than wipe off with aragan oil. And big one, I only wash my eyes with bottle of water, never tap water. This is the best I have done for my eyes, especially if you live where there are hard water.
        I find the swellin to do with dryness of the lids for what ever the cause is (foods, allergens. . Etc).
        staring at the computer screen a lot can dry them and irritate them too.
        I hope you find the success I found 🙂

  244. Lana Rich says:

    Wow!! Kris, you’ve done it again! You are always spot on with your info. You have an incredible talent for pulling together a treasure trove chocked FULL of extremely valuable info and sharing it in a very understandable and enjoyable way. I always look forward to your highly informative and motivating emails.

    Just a quick mention: Speaking as a now-retired dental hygienist (holistic mostly), I would like to highlight the impact of oral-systemic conditions. I am very happy to learn some healthcare professionals are now connecting the dots between oral problems (root canals, mercury in silver fillings, tooth decay and periodontal disease) and the rest of the body and their important role in chronic inflammation. YEA!! Yep, the same blood that flows through our brain, kidneys, gut, heart, fetus, etc. flows through our teeth and gums and can take bad boy bugs along with it if they are living and thriving in the mouth. And, unfortunately, many people are unaware of the presence of oral disease (even oral cancer) because most oral diseases are so sneaky and don’t cause a lot of ruckus until they have progressed past the early stages. So, I would encourage all to take the bull by the horns and keep your kisser clean and healthy! Makes for better smooching too—HA!

    • kris carr says:

      Lana! Such a great point and important topic! I really need to do a post about this. Thank you, thank you.

      • Joan Zietlow says:

        Kris,
        You do an awesome job of a write up on a complicated system but extremely critical to our health. I would love to see you write about the need for dental awareness and mouth health. Here is an extremely interesting YouTube on mercury and fillings. http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=9ylnQ-T7oiA#! I thought because I had “gold caps” I was safe from the mercury stuff but come to find out it’s in those too! bummer for sure.
        I understand Dr. Oz just touched on mercury in fillings and he got slammed by the ADA, no surprise there. I remember hearing the joke told in dental school “drill them, fill them, bill them”. How sad is that?
        You have such a wonderful platform for creating awareness and this is another great one for you to spread the word about and as a fellow health coach I will happily forward to my small group.

        • Maria Indermuhle says:

          Yes, I too would LOVE to see you do an article on the dangers of Mercury Fillings! 3 years ago I was diagnosed with MS. I started to take the meds, and felt they werent helping so stopped them and started down the holistic route. Turns out I had Mercury Posioning!!!
          I now realize how very important it is what I put in my mouth!!……….xx

    • I’ve heard this before. But what is the solution for all the dental work that’s already been done? I’ve had almost all of my metal filling removed but what about root canals? How do I get rid of them? Have the teeth pulled out? Please advice what the solution to this would be. Thanks a lot. I’ve been wondering about this for awhile.

      • Lana Rich says:

        Hi Michelle,
        As you might guess, the mouth is a very complex area of the body and it would be impossible to make recommendations for anyone’s oral treatment without fully examining and evaluating their condition. However, there is a great book, “Mouth Matters” by Carol Vander Stoep, RDH, BSDH which I have found to be invaluable in assisting people in locating and learning how to work with a good biological dentist. Carol has been recognized and interviewed by Dr. Joseph Mercola, who is an alternative MD. I hope you will follow up with your desire to have a healthy mouth. Your body will certainly benefit from it! Good luck!
        Lana Rich

      • Leslie says:

        I would like to know this too 🙂 Thanks!

      • Minela says:

        Good question. I’d like to know the answer.

    • Amy says:

      Thanks so much for discussing this topic!! It never gets any attention and is rarely talked about. Oral cancers are becoming more and more common these days. I know this because I was diagnosed last year. I am about 1 year post surgery. I now have a prosthetic mouthpiece to fill in for the chuck of my mouth that had to be removed. The care and maintenance of my mouth is now such a huge part of taking care of myself. Oral care is so important and so many issues can be avoided with the area if we paid more attention to it

  245. What a great wealth of info to find on a MONday (MOON) morning !!!!!!!
    Your the best Kris – I will share with many people that I love and that
    need this information – I myself am in the middle of getting all my test back
    from what is causing the attack on my immune system – IT”S a PUZZLE
    All i know is that by following Dr Terry Wahl ‘s diet – which you can also
    view her TED talk online – I fell in 3 months – a whole new me – Like you say
    It is exciting – the natural high we can produce VS. the burned out over
    productive drained self !
    Thank you from my deep heart for helping so many
    and last night I viewed the TED Talk by Robyn O’Brein = WOW !!!!!!!
    WOW WOW a must see for your fans xoxooxoxoox
    Happy Spring xoxoxo and full moon energy xo

  246. Judy says:

    What urine test checks for leaky gut? I need to know what to ask my doctor for since he i not holistic. Also what is your opinion of iodine deficiency?

  247. Sara Levitsky says:

    Hi Kris. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010, and after I finished treatment in 2011 I changed my diet and my lifestyle. I started eating plant based with very little gluten and soy, and I switched out any as many environmental toxins as I could. (Inspired mostly by Crazy Sexy Diet!) Before doing all of this I got sick with viruses and bronchitis several times a year, and had regular flare ups of diverticulitis.
    After eating plant based for about 5 months I saw a naturopath. She did lots of testing and she told me that I had one of the lowest levels of inflammation that she had ever seen!!
    I have not been sick with anything – not even a sniffle – for almost 2 years, and have had no evidence of cancer for over 3 years now!!
    These changes make a difference!!!

  248. DCorbin says:

    A great start!

  249. Marthe says:

    This post came at just the right time! I am day 6 into my new vegan lifestyle. I’m lactose intolerant and I’ve never eaten much eggs – plus I have been vegetarian for two years – so the difference isn’t that big. However, I woke up today with a really icky belly and at first I couldn’t understand why. However – after reading this post – I think it might be the soy chai I had yesterday! I hardly ever drink soy, so it makes sense. Thank you for raising my awareness and focus on food allergies and sensitivities.

    You rock!

  250. Aliza says:

    Bonjour!

    Merci Kris!!

    I truly appreciate the consistent reminders and support I receive in my inbox from you on a regular basis. This is a great post! Is there a way to be super healthy and also “cheat” a little sometimes? In regards to inflammation? I am a HUGE fan of juicing (just finished some fresh beet, carrot, ginger, mint, grapefruit from a Parisian market) and I used to work as a raw vegan chef in San Francisco. I did feel amazing when I was 100% raw, but at this point in my life as I travel constantly I find it a little less stressful when I don’t get uptight about eating 100% clean. Is there a way to awesomely balance a healthy life with some flexibility especially when under a hectic schedule or living situation?

    Thank you so much for being you!
    You are one of my role models!!

    Cheers,

    Aliza

    • kris carr says:

      Of course Aliza! Let this way of living be your overall compass, but you don’t have to stick to it perfectly all the time — especially if you don’t have health issues. Many ppl are in constant pain and they really need to stay true to this advice until they feel better. After which point they can explore. For some there’s more wiggle room than for others. We’re all so different and we come to the party with our unique strengths and weaknesses. Your body will tell you when it’s time to clean up if you’ve drifted too far.

  251. Karina says:

    I created my own cleanse last week and it was great! (one day raw, 3 days juice, followed by one day raw.) Already gluten sensitive, can’t eat dairy, don’t eat meat except fish, I depended on eggs A LOT before my cleanse. I also happen to have a funky GI tract that is tre sensitive!
    After no eggs for five days during my cleanse, I have to wonder if those guys are a major source of body discomfort for me.
    I see them now in my fridge and think I’ll keep them at bay. When I begin eating them again, I’ll be paying attention to how they affect any inflammation in my body – thanks for this reminder!

    • Physiofit says:

      What the chickens eat and what they may be medicated with (antibiotics) will be passed on to you. Same for all foods, really, but mostly animals…

  252. lisa says:

    thank you! i’ve shared this to my facebook page with my friends and holistic nutrition clients!! simple tips which everyone should consider and hopefully adopt in their diet and lifestyle.

  253. Patty Beasley says:

    I need to jump into this with both feet, I am currently suffering from yet another bout of diverticulitis, seems I have a flare up every 6 months at scan time. If I could just flip a switch to turn off the stress and then make myself eat better…

    • Janet says:

      Hi Patty – I was in the hospital six times in one year with diverticulitis. I have been on an anti-inflammatory diet, and life style and the difference is amazing! Happy to share ideas with you. You can find me at jv.onthego@gmail.com. It makes a world of difference.

  254. Lynda says:

    Howdy Kris, You have inspired me to detox, stop drinking coffee, cut out process foods and sugars and up the greenery in my diet! At the moment I have a coffee hangover but know that will pass. I’m sure my stomach is smiling as I type…
    I use eucalyptus oil and lemon as cleaning agents. This mix seems to work on most things; stainless steel gleams and the bath tub sparkles. In a spray bottle with the dash of eucalyptus oil add water and a good squeeze of lemon and voila!
    Thanks Kris for all the information and the way you put it all together.

  255. ann says:

    I totally get what you are saying. I know for sure that when I cut gluten, dairy, soy and sugar from my diet, my inflammation blood markers went down and my thyroid panel improved. I also had thyroid nodules, and have no other explanation for their disappearance on my recent ultrasound, other than changes to my diet.
    One thing I really have to work on is the stress side of things. Just when you think you are managing it, something comes up and sets you right back. I guess its not about the amount of stress you have, it is how you manage it. Thanks for this info, it really reasonates with me.
    Ann

  256. HI Kris,
    This article is just awesome. My chronic inflammation was as a result of environmental allergies which also meant i had food allergies. My body and immune system spent most of it’s time dealing with my allergies and little time on healing my body. My Naturopath recommended an allergy desensitization technique (AACT) for both my environmental and food allergies. We also did a lot of work on my gut using whole food supplementation. I feel healthier and my immune system is stronger. I no longer have the allergies : )

    • kate says:

      I battle inflammation from Hashi’s and Autoimmune Arthritis – Exercise and Diet help a BUNCH but also, in last year, I added a new supplement line (beyond my typical Fish OIl) and since taking it I have gone from taking 5 aleve a day to manage inflamed joints to NONE! I am almost pain free! I can’t believe what I difference it has made. Lifelong Vitality supplements are high in antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory – so much that I barely have the diagnosis anymore. My numbers look great! no signs of inflammation! So thankful I have been able to calm this fire.

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