Body On Fire: Why an Anti-Inflammatory Lifestyle Matters — Especially for Women
In today’s hyper-connected world, our bodies are constantly under siege. From endless news cycles and social media to the latest digital innovations, we’re exposed to more information and stimulation than ever before. But it’s not just our minds that are overwhelmed — our bodies absorb the impact of our environments, our diets, and our daily stressors.
The result? Many of us are living with chronic, low-grade inflammation — our bodies, quite literally, on fire.
What Is Inflammation and Why Should You Care?
Inflammation is a natural immune response designed to protect us from infection and injury. However, when inflammation becomes chronic — often due to poor diet, stress, lack of sleep, or environmental toxins — it can wreak havoc on our health. According to the World Health Organization, chronic diseases linked to inflammation, such as heart disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders, are responsible for 70% of all deaths worldwide.
The Post-Pandemic Rise in Inflammatory and Autoimmune Disorders
Recent research suggests that the COVID-19 pandemic has contributed to a rise in inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. Studies indicate that viral infections, including COVID-19, can trigger immune dysregulation, leading to a surge in new diagnoses of autoimmune diseases and worsening symptoms for those already affected. (Source: Nature Reviews Rheumatology, 2023)
Why Women Are at Greater Risk
While inflammation affects everyone, women are disproportionately impacted. Approximately 75% of people diagnosed with autoimmune disorders are women. (Source: Doing Harm: The Truth About How Bad Medicines and Lazy Science Leave Women Dismissed, MIsdiagnosed, and Sick by Maya Dusenbery)
“Approximately 75% of people diagnosed with autoimmune disorders are women.” - Maya Dusenbery
According to the Alzheimer’s Association as well as the National Osteoporosis Foundation, the trends are similar for these conditions as well. Women are not only at higher risk for conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and osteoporosis — both of which have inflammatory components, — nearly two-thirds of Americans with Alzheimer’s are women, and women account for 80% of osteoporosis cases in the U.S.
Speaking as a woman, these numbers are not just surprising. They are alarming.
Add to the fact that many autoimmune and inflammatory conditions lie dormant until triggered by major stressors or hormonal changes, like perimenopause, making women especially vulnerable to inflammation.
My Story: Navigating Inflammation and Finding Hope
I know these statistics aren’t just numbers — they’re real experiences. My journey began while caring for my mother in hospice and grieving her loss, while simultaneously entering perimenopause.
The combination of emotional stress and hormonal shifts set off a cascade of debilitating symptoms: blurry vision, eye pain, chronic nausea, and more. Nearly a year later, I’m still seeking answers and a diagnosis.
What I do know is this: my body feels like it’s on fire, attacking itself in ways that feel deeply personal — like my I am at war with myself. But I’ve also learned that I’m not powerless. By focusing on what I can control — my nutrition, my environment, my stress — I’m slowly soothing the flames.
What Is an Anti-Inflammatory Lifestyle?
Adopting an anti-inflammatory lifestyle means making daily choices that reduce inflammation and support whole-body wellness. This includes:
Eating a whole-food, plant-forward diet: Emphasize fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats like omega-3s. Limit processed foods, refined sugars, and saturated fats. Science says: Diets rich in antioxidants and healthy fats (like the Mediterranean diet) are associated with lower inflammation and reduced risk of chronic disease. (Source: Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health)
Managing stress: Chronic stress elevates cortisol and inflammatory markers. Mindfulness, meditation, and yoga are proven to help.
Prioritizing sleep: Poor sleep increases inflammatory cytokines. Aim for 7–9 hours per night.
Staying active: Regular movement reduces inflammation and boosts immune function.
Minimizing environmental toxins: Filter your water, choose clean personal care products, and reduce exposure to pollutants where possible.
You don’t need an autoimmune disorder or any specific diagnosis to benefit from these best practices. In our fast-paced, digital world, making choices that calm — rather than inflame — the body can help anyone manage the relentless stress and information overload we all face today.
Join The Soothe Edit: A Community for Healing and Connection
The Soothe Edit is a vibrant Discord community for women and caregivers who want to take charge of their health, connect with others, and access exclusive wellness content—all in a supportive, science-backed environment.
Why Join Us?
Accessible, Real-World Wellness: Get practical, evidence-based tips on managing inflammation and thriving in today’s world.
Empowerment Through Knowledge: Access expert-curated resources and actionable strategies to support your well-being.
Supportive Community: Share your journey, find motivation, and connect with others who understand what you’re going through.
Whether you’re managing inflammation, navigating caregiving, or simply seeking a community focused on holistic health, The Soothe Edit is your go-to space. The first 100 members receive a special gift — join us and start your healing journey today.
To Your Health,
Kara
Disclaimer:
Drafted by Kara and thoughtfully refined with the help of AI editing tools to ensure clarity and accuracy; graphics may include stock imagery and are not always original photography.
I am not a medical professional. The information provided on this blog is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, wellness routine, or health practices.
Some posts may contain affiliate links, and I may receive a commission or other benefits from qualifying purchases made through those links—at no additional cost to you.
