Definition
Inflammation is a coordinated protective response required for defense, healing, and tissue maintenance. Framing it as inherently harmful is inaccurate and clinically counterproductive.
Why it matters
The wellness industry often treats “anti-inflammatory” as a moral virtue. Careful science treats inflammation with context: acute, resolving inflammation is necessary; chronic, unresolving inflammation is problematic. Confusing the two harms patients.
The Science
Without inflammation, wounds do not heal, infections are not contained, and cancer surveillance falters. Selective pro-resolving mediators actively terminate inflammation once its job is done — evidence that resolution is engineered, not the absence of inflammation.
The NSI Perspective
NSI holds precision over slogans. Inflammation is a language. Whether it is healthy depends on what it is saying, when, and for how long.
Clinical Implications
Blanket anti-inflammatory diets, cleanses, and supplements should be evaluated case by case. Some help; some are inert; some interfere with healing.
Practical Application
A body that can inflame is a body that can protect and heal. What matters is whether the inflammation resolves — not whether it happens.
References
- 1.Medzhitov R. Inflammation 2010: new adventures of an old flame. Cell. 2010;140(6):771–776.