'Inflammaging' describes the chronic, low-grade inflammation that accumulates with age and drives cardiovascular disease, neurodegeneration, type 2 diabetes, cancer, and frailty. It's not the acute inflammation of a sprained ankle — it's a quiet background hum that, over decades, does enormous damage.
What fuels it
- Visceral fat — metabolically active and pro-inflammatory
- Poor sleep and chronic stress
- Ultra-processed foods and excess refined carbohydrate
- Sedentary days and minimal muscle mass
- Gut dysbiosis and leaky gut
- Chronic infections and untreated dental issues
What cools it
- Strength training and consistent daily movement
- A whole-food, protein-forward diet rich in plants
- Omega-3s from fatty fish or quality supplementation
- Deep, consistent sleep
- Stress regulation — walks, breathwork, real recovery
- Targeted peptides and metabolic therapies where appropriate
What to measure
hs-CRP, fasting insulin, HbA1c, ferritin, and a comprehensive lipid panel give a good window into inflammatory load. Tracking these over time tells you whether your lifestyle is actually moving the needle — or just feeling like it is.