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Inflammation: nutritional, botanical, and mind-body influences.


Abstract: Chronic inflammation chronic inflammation
n.
Inflammation that may have a rapid or slow onset but is characterized primarily by its persistence and lack of clear resolution; it occurs when the tissues are unable to overcome the effects of the injuring agent.
 is becoming an important risk factor to identify in regard to inhibiting disease onset and its progression. Nutritional science attempted to improve health by manipulating fats so that we could consume "healthy" nonsaturated fats while simultaneously allowing foods to have a longer shelf-life. However, despite our good intentions, trans-fats and partially hydrogenated oils have been found to promote inflammation and adversely affect health. This article reviews how essential fatty acids Essential fatty acids
Sources of fat in the diet, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.

Mentioned in: Nutritional Supplements
, the ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids, glycemic load, the Mediterranean diet Mediterranean diet Nutrition A diet that differs by country, characterized by ↑ consumption of olive oil, complex carbohydrates, vegetables, ↓ red meat. See Diet, Mediterranean diet pyramid. Cf Affluent diet. , specific foods and botanicals, and the mind-body relation influence the inflammatory cascade.

Key Words: botanicals, essential fatty acids, inflammation, mindbody, nutrition, omega-3 fatty acids This is a list of omega-3 fatty acids.

Common name Lipid name Chemical name
α-Linolenic acid (ALA) 18:3 (n-3) octadeca-9,12,15-trienoic acid
Stearidonic acid 18:4 (n-3) octadeca-6,9,12,15-tetraenoic acid
, trans-fatty acids

**********

The Invention of Partially Hydrogenated Trans-fatty Acids

It is interesting to look back in time and see how things we thought were helpful actually resulted in medical harm. The case of trans-fatty acids is a good example. Back in the 1950s, we realized that the type of fat that clogged the arteries, therefore leading to heart attacks, strokes, and claudication claudication /clau·di·ca·tion/ (klaw?di-ka´shun) limping; lameness.

intermittent claudication
 was of the saturated fat saturated fat, any solid fat that is an ester of glycerol and a saturated fatty acid. The molecules of a saturated fat have only single bonds between carbon atoms; if double bonds are present in the fatty acid portion of the molecule, the fat is said to be  type. The food scientists wanted to find a way to be able to use poly-unsaturated fatty acids (PUFA PUFA polyunsaturated fatty acid.

PUFA
abbr.
polyunsaturated fatty acid



PUFA

polyunsaturated fatty acids.
) in cooking because they thought that these fats would be healthier and would allow for a reduction in the amount of saturated fats in the diet. They got together and figured out a way to manipulate a poly-unsaturated fat so that it could be used in cooking instead of the saturated fat that was clogging the arteries. The challenge was that poly-unsaturated fats spoiled very quickly. Since saturated fats were more stable, the food scientists figured out a way to manipulate the polyunsaturated polyunsaturated /poly·un·sat·u·rat·ed/ (-un-sach´er-at-ed) denoting a chemical compound, particularly a fatty acid, having two or more double or triple bonds in its hydrocarbon chain.  vegetable oils so they would last longer on the shelf without spoiling.

Two things were done to the polyunsaturated fat to make it more stable (Fig. 1). First, they heated the vegetable oil. Heating the oil changes the shape of the fat from a cis configuration to a trans configuration. In the natural state (cis) of the oil, the methyl (C[H.sub.3]) and the carboxyl carboxyl /car·box·yl/ (kahr-bok´sil) the monovalent radical —COOH, occurring in those organic acids termed carboxylic acids.

car·box·yl
n.
 (COOH COOH Carboxylic Acid (functional group) ) groups are on the same side of the double bond. In the trans configuration, they are on opposite sides of the double bond. In the trans state, the fat is more stable and will not break down as easily. Heating the polyunsaturated fats Polyunsaturated fats
A non-animal oil or fatty acid rich in unsaturated chemical bonds not associated with the formation of cholesterol in the blood.

Mentioned in: Cholesterol, High
 also broke double bonds in the fatty acid chain. The food scientists then infused hydrogen gas into the heated oil, which allowed them to partially hydrogenate hydrogenate

to cause to combine with hydrogen; to reduce with hydrogen.
 the oil. These partially hydrogenated oils (corn oil, soy oil, and so on) could then be used in foods, which would subsequently last much longer without spoiling. If you look at any product that has any sort of shelf life, chances are you will see partially hydrogenated oil in the ingredients (chips, crackers, granola bars, frosted cupcakes).

[FIGURE 1 OMITTED]

We have now realized the potential dangers of these partially hydrogenated trans-fatty acids.

Risks of Partially Hydrogenated Oils on Inflammation

The dietary risk of excess trans-fatty acids (TFA TFA Teach For America
TFA Thyroid Foundation of America
TFA Trifluoroacetic Acid
TFA Trans Fatty Acid
TFA Two Factor Authentication (computer security authentication)
TFA Texas Forensic Association
TFA Total Fatty Acids
) in relation to heart disease is well established. (1) Dietary intake of these fats has been associated with worsening lipid profiles (2) and elevated markers of inflammation. (3,4) Research from 823 women from the Nurse's Health Study showed that those who ate the most trans-fatty acids had higher levels of interleukin (IL)-6 and C-reactive protein C-Reactive Protein Definition

C-reactive protein (CRP) is a protein produced by the liver and found in the blood.
Purpose

C-reactive protein is not normally found in the blood of healthy people.
 (CRP C-reactive protein (CRP)
A protein present in blood serum in various abnormal states, like inflammation.

Mentioned in: Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

CRP,
n.pr See C-reactive protein.
). The effect was greater in those with an elevated body mass index. (5) The evidence is so compelling that the Danish government has decided that oils and fats containing more than 2% industrially produced TFAs will not be sold in Denmark. (6)

Despite the well-known negative health consequences of TFAs, our Western diet still consists of an excessive amount of these oils. Our dependence on convenience and a fast-paced lifestyle encourages continued consumption of these products. Fortunately, the Food and Drug Administration will require that trans-fatty acids be declared in the nutrition label of conventional foods and dietary supplements, effective January 1, 2006. (7) Until then, we can educate our patients that any food that contains partially hydrogenated oils will be rich in TFAs. It is also important to realize that foods fried in vegetable oils that have been repeatedly reheated will also be rich in TFAs. Heating these oils increases the amount of TFAs in the oil. Excessive intake of these vegetable oils also increases the intake of omega-6 fatty acids, which can worsen the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids (discussed below).

Does Food Preparation Have an Influence on Inflammation?

We have learned how reheating Reheating

The addition of heat to steam of reduced pressure after the steam has given up some of its energy by expansion through the high-pressure stages of a turbine.
 vegetable oils can increase the amount of TFAs, but can overcooking our food also increase inflammation? Overcooking, broiling broiling: see cooking. , grilling, and eating charred food can be a significant source of environmental heat-generated advanced glycation end products (AGEs). One study divided 24 diabetic subjects into two groups. One group was fed a diet high in AGEs (H-AGE) and the other was fed a diet low in AGEs (L-AGE). After 6 weeks, tumor necrosis factor tumor necrosis factor
n. Abbr. TNF
A protein that is produced in the presence of an endotoxin, especially by monocytes and macrophages, is able to attack and destroy tumor cells, and exacerbates chronic inflammatory diseases.
 (TNF TNF
abbr.
tumor necrosis factor


TNF,
n an abbreviation for tumor
necrosis
f
) rose to 86.3% in the H-AGE group and declined by 20% in the L-AGE group. CRP increased by 35% in the H-AGE group and decreased by 20% in the L-AGE group. Low density lipoprotein Low density lipoprotein (LDL)
A fraction of total serum lipids, the so called "bad" cholesterol.

Mentioned in: Hypercholesterolemia
 increased by 32% in the H-AGE group and reduced by 33% in the L-AGE group. (8) This study would suggest that we should encourage our diabetic patients (and maybe others) to eat fresh foods that have been cooked mainly by steaming and boiling.

Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids on Inflammation

The potential benefit of omega-3 fatty acids was first documented by Dyerberg et al (9) and Bang et al (10) in the 1970s, when they made the observation that despite obesity and a high fat diet, Inuit Eskimos in Greenland had a very low death rate from heart disease. This observation raised the question of whether or not the type of fat eaten mattered more than the amount consumed. This population consumed a lot of fat, but the majority was from cold-water marine animals and consisted of omega-3 polyunsaturated fats.

To understand how these fats influence inflammation it is important to understand the different types and their molecular makeup (saturated, monounsaturated monounsaturated /mono·un·sat·u·rat·ed/ (mon?o-un-sach´er-at?ed) of a chemical compound, containing one double or triple bond.

mon·o·un·sat·u·rat·ed
adj.
, and polyunsaturated) (see Fig. 2). Saturated fats (animal flesh) have no double bonds and are completely saturated with hydrogen atoms. Monounsaturated fats (olive oil, canola oil) have only one double bond, and polyunsaturated fats (vegetable oil, fish oil) have numerous double bonds, resulting in less hydrogen saturation. The naming of a PUFA helps us understand where the first double bond occurs. An omega-3 fat has the first double bond after the third carbon and an omega-6 fat has the first double bond after the sixth carbon. For example, eicosapentaenoic acid eicosapentaenoic acid /ei·co·sa·pen·ta·eno·ic ac·id/ (EPA) (i-ko?sah-pen?tah-e-no´ik) an omega-3, polyunsaturated, 20-carbon fatty acid found almost exclusively in fish and marine animal oils.  (EPA EPA eicosapentaenoic acid.

EPA
abbr.
eicosapentaenoic acid


EPA,
n.pr See acid, eicosapentaenoic.

EPA,
n.
), one of the essential fatty acids found in fish oil, is classified as EPA (20:5 omega-3). This means that this is a 20-carbon essential fatty acid
    Essential fatty acids, or EFAs, are fatty acids that cannot be constructed within an organism from other components (generally all references are to humans) by any known chemical pathways; and therefore must be obtained from the diet.
     with 5 double bonds, with the first located after the third carbon.

    Although the placement of these double bonds would seem trivial, it actually plays a large role in regard to inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids such as EPA and docosahexaenoic acid docosahexaenoic acid /do·co·sa·hexa·eno·ic ac·id/ (do-ko?sah-hek?sah-e-no´ik) an omega-3, polyunsaturated, 22-carbon fatty acid found almost exclusively in fish and marine animal oils.  have a beneficial influence on inflammation and tumorigenesis tumorigenesis /tu·mor·i·gen·e·sis/ (-jen´e-sis) oncogenesis.

    tu·mor·i·gen·e·sis
    n.
    Formation or production of tumors.
    , but omega-6 fatty acids, which include arachidonic acid arachidonic acid /arach·i·don·ic acid/ (ah-rak?i-don´ik) a polyunsaturated 20-carbon essential fatty acid occurring in animal fats and formed by biosynthesis from linoleic acid; it is a precursor to leukotrienes, prostaglandins, and  (AA) and linoleic acid linoleic acid /lin·o·le·ic ac·id/ (lin?o-le´ik) a polyunsaturated fatty acid, occurring as a major constituent of many vegetable oils; it is used in the biosynthesis of prostaglandins and cell membranes.  (found in partially hydrogenated oils and saturated fats), have proinflammatory and tumor growth-enhancing properties. (11-14)

    [FIGURE 2 OMITTED]

    To understand how these PUFAs influence inflammation, it is important to understand how they influence the inflammatory cascade, which includes the interaction of numerous inflammatory mediators in the form of cytokines Cytokines
    Chemicals made by the cells that act on other cells to stimulate or inhibit their function. Cytokines that stimulate growth are called "growth factors.
    , prostaglandins, leukotrienes Leukotrienes
    A class of small molecules produced by cells in response to allergen exposure; they contribute to allergy and asthma symptoms.

    Mentioned in: Leukotriene Inhibitors

    leukotrienes
    , and many others that have not been defined or discovered. In an attempt to simplify a very complicated process, let us try and convey what we think we know.

    Omega-6 fatty acids and saturated fats result in more AA. AA leads to the production of the main proponents of the inflammatory cascade, prostaglandins of the two-family (PG[E.sub.2]), and leukotrienes (see Fig. 3). In contrast, omega-3 fatty acids have a more beneficial influence on inflammation. omega-3 fatty acids compete with AA in the cell membrane Cell membrane

    The membrane that surrounds the cytoplasm of a cell; it is also called the plasma membrane or, in a more general sense, a unit membrane. This is a very thin, semifluid, sheetlike structure made of four continuous monolayers of molecules.
    , reducing the amount available while also competing with the cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase enzymes, which are upregulated in the inflammatory process. (15,16) EPA also inhibits production of proinflammatory cytokines, including IL-1 and TNF-[alpha]. (17,18) In summary, omega-3 fatty acids lead to the production of less inflammatory prostaglandins of the one- and three-families (PG[E.sub.1] and PG[E.sub.3]) and less inflammatory leukotrienes while also reducing proinflammatory AA within the cell membrane and reducing enzymes needed to promote inflammation.

    [FIGURE 3 OMITTED]

    Both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids also compete for the same rate-limiting enzyme, delta-6 dehydrogenase dehydrogenase /de·hy·dro·gen·ase/ (de-hi´dro-jen-as?) an enzyme that catalyzes the transfer of hydrogen or electrons from a donor, oxidizing it, to an acceptor, reducing it.

    de·hy·dro·gen·ase
    n.
    . Certain situations influence this enzyme to shift toward the omega-6 pathway, resulting in more inflammatory mediators. These include excessive alcohol, diabetes, stress, and a high omega-6 to omega-3 ratio.

    Ratio of Omega-3 Fatty Acids to Omega-6 Fatty Acids

    The ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids in the diet matters because the more omega-6 fatty acids present in the body, the less we are able to utilize the beneficial influences of the omega-3 fatty acids. Before we manipulated our diet to contain more vegetable oils and processed food, the ratio of omega-6:3 fatty acids in the human body was 4:1. The ratio now is thought to be closer to 16:1. Current evidence supports a lower ratio for long-term health. A 4:1 ratio was associated with a 70% decrease in total mortality rate in the secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease Cardiovascular disease
    Disease that affects the heart and blood vessels.

    Mentioned in: Lipoproteins Test

    cardiovascular disease 
    . In asthmatic patients, a 5:1 ratio was associated with a benefit, whereas a 10:1 ratio had adverse consequences. (19) It appears that we not only need to increase the intake of omega-3-rich foods in the West but also reduce the consumption of foods rich in omega-6 fatty acids.

    Glycemic Index gly·ce·mic index
    n.
    An index that measures the ability of a given food to elevate blood sugar.


    glycemic index,
    n
     and Glycemic Load: An Inflammatory Role?

    The optimal ratio of carbohydrates to fats and proteins in the diet is the subject of ongoing debate as certain fad diets continue to discourage carbohydrate consumption. Of no less importance is the question of what sources of carbohydrates are healthiest. Can some carbohydrate sources actually promote more inflammation than others? In guiding patients' dietary choices, it is important to understand the concepts of glycemic index and glycemic load.

    Glycemic index is a measure of how rapidly a food's carbohydrates affect postprandial postprandial /post·pran·di·al/ (-pran´de-al) occurring after a meal.

    post·pran·di·al
    adj.
    Following a meal, especially dinner.
     serum glucose levels over time. White bread and glucose cause the fastest and most dramatic rises in glucose levels, so one of them is typically assigned a value of 100, the highest index possible. All other foods are then assigned proportionately lower values, based on how they affect serum glucose in comparison. (20)

    Glycemic load takes the concept of glycemic index a step farther, accounting not only for how rapidly a food's carbohydrates are converted to glucose but also the relative amounts of carbohydrate the food contains. Glycemic load is generally held to be a more accurate measure of a food's overall effect on pancreatic insulin release and serum glucose levels.

    In general, items with a low glycemic index tend to have a correspondingly low glycemic load. However, foods with a high glycemic index may vary as to whether their glycemic load will be low or high. For example, the carbohydrates in watermelon watermelon, plant (Citrullus vulgaris) of the family Curcurbitaceae (gourd family) native to Africa and introduced to America by Africans transported as slaves. Watermelons are now extensively cultivated in the United States and are popular also in S Russia.  are rapidly converted to glucose, so the watermelon glycemic index is high, at 72. However, because watermelon is primarily made up of water and contains little absolute carbohydrate content, its glycemic load is relatively low, at a value of 4. (21) Table 1 describes some guidelines for using glycemic index and glycemic load in clinical practice. (22)

    Using glycemic load to guide dietary choices has been found to have several benefits. High-load foods can often lead to rapid release of large amounts of insulin, and this can ultimately cause blood glucose blood glucose Diabetology The principal sugar produced by the body from food–especially carbohydrates, but also from proteins and fats; glucose is the body's major source of energy, is transported to cells via the circulation and used by cells in the presence  to fall below fasting levels a few hours after eating. This rebound hypoglycemia hypoglycemia: see diabetes.
    hypoglycemia

    Below-normal levels of blood glucose, quickly reversed by administration of oral or intravenous glucose. Even brief episodes can produce severe brain dysfunction.
     can be characterized by fatigue, which decreases substantially when high glycemic-load foods are removed from the diet. Interestingly, a low glycemic index meal will lead to a lower glycemic Glycemic
    The presence of glucose in the blood.

    Mentioned in: Cholesterol, High


    glycemic

    pertaining to the level of glucose in the blood.
     response to subsequent meals as well. (23) On average, people who eat low glycemic load diets tend to eat smaller meals, and their food cravings diminish. Diets of predominantly high glycemic index foods have been associated with an increased risk of insulin resistance Insulin Resistance Definition

    Insulin resistance is not a disease as such but rather a state or condition in which a person's body tissues have a lowered level of response to insulin, a hormone secreted by the pancreas that helps to regulate the level
     syndrome and type II diabetes Type II diabetes
    Type II diabetes is the most common form of diabetes and usually appears in middle aged adults. It is often associated with obesity and may be delayed or controlled with diet and exercise.

    Mentioned in: Diabetic Ketoacidosis
    . (24)

    The degree to which dietary glycemic load can affect inflammation remains unclear, but a relationship does appear to exist. In both human and animal studies, hyperglycemia hyperglycemia: see diabetes.  in the presence of diabetes has been linked to the production of reactive oxygen species reactive oxygen species,
    n molecules and ions of oxygen that have an unpaired electron, thus rendering them extremely reactive. Many cellular structures are susceptible to attack by ROS contributing to cancer, heart disease, and cerebrovascular disease.
    , with consequent lipid peroxidation and resultant atherosclerosis. Hyperglycemia in nondiabetic patients has similarly been found to increase the production of reactive oxygen species in vitro in vitro /in vi·tro/ (in ve´tro) [L.] within a glass; observable in a test tube; in an artificial environment.

    in vi·tro
    adj.
    In an artificial environment outside a living organism.
    , with resultant oxidative cellular damage and the ultimate triggering of inflammatory responses. Leukocyte leukocyte (l`kəsīt'): see blood.
    leukocyte
     or white blood cell or white corpuscle
     movement, adherence, and movement from the bloodstream have also been noted in the presence of high glucose concentrations. (25) Subclinical subclinical /sub·clin·i·cal/ (sub-klin´i-k'l) without clinical manifestations.

    sub·clin·i·cal
    adj.
    Not manifesting characteristic clinical symptoms. Used of a disease or condition.
     inflammation, characterized by increased levels of IL-1-[beta] and IL-6, have been noted to precede the development of type II diabetes in one large European study. (26)

    The exact mechanisms by which elevated glucose levels might be associated with inflammation are unclear, but increased production of TNF-a may play a role. Acute phase-reactant production increases in hyperglycemia, perhaps in response to TNF-a levels. Liu et al, using prospective data from the Women's Health Women's Health Definition

    Women's health is the effect of gender on disease and health that encompasses a broad range of biological and psychosocial issues.
     Study, found a statistically significant association between dietary glycemic load and plasma levels of highly sensitive CRP, a marker for systemic inflammation associated with an increased risk of coronary artery coronary artery
    n.
    1. An artery with origin in the right aortic sinus; with distribution to the right side of the heart in the coronary sulcus, and with branches to the right atrium and ventricle, including the atrioventricular branches and
     and other inflammatory diseases. The risk was higher in women who had an elevated body mass index. (27) This relation may partially explain why it has been concluded, based on epidemiologic data, that a diet with a high overall glycemic load was associated with increased coronary heart disease coronary heart disease: see coronary artery disease.
    coronary heart disease
     or ischemic heart disease

    Progressive reduction of blood supply to the heart muscle due to narrowing or blocking of a coronary artery (see atherosclerosis).
     in women, independent of other known risk factors. (28)

    A number of case-control and cohort studies suggest a link between glycemic load and various cancers. A positive association has been noted between glycemic load and the risk of developing gastric, (29) colorectal, (30) and upper aerodigestive tract aerodigestive tract Surgical anatomy A term that encompasses the oral cavity, sinonasal tract, larynx, pyriform sinus, pharynx, and esophagus  (31) cancers. A slightly increased risk of endometrial cancer Endometrial Cancer Definition

    Endometrial cancer develops when the cells that make up the inner lining of the uterus (the endometrium) become abnormal and grow uncontrollably.
     (32) and pancreatic cancer pancreatic cancer

    Malignant tumour of the pancreas. Risk factors include smoking, a diet high in fat, exposure to certain industrial products, and diseases such as diabetes and chronic pancreatitis. Pancreatic cancer is more common in men.
     (33) have been suggested as well. Studies of glycemic load and breast cancer have thus far not demonstrated a relation. (34)

    Additional research is needed to fully elucidate the relation between glycemic load and inflammation. However, given the relatively low risks associated with using glycemic load or glycemic index to guide dietary carbohydrate choices, doing so may prove to be a useful part of an anti-inflammatory diet.

    The Mediterranean Diet and Inflammation

    Of all the cultures and eating habits in the world, the Mediterranean diet appears to have the most positive influence on inflammation and the prevention of heart disease. The Mediterranean diet is rich in olive oil, fruits, vegetables, multigrain breads (with a low glycemic index), fish, and lean meat. In a study of more than 3,000 men and women in Greece, it was found that those who most strictly followed the Mediterranean diet had, on average, 20% lower CRP levels, 17% lower IL-6 levels, 15% lower homocysteine Homocysteine Definition

    Homocysteine is a naturally occurring amino acid found in blood plasma. High levels of homocysteine in the blood are believed to increase the chance of heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer's disease, and osteoporosis.
     levels, and 6% lower fibrinogen Fibrinogen

    The major clot-forming substrate in the blood plasma of vertebrates. Though fibrinogen represents a small fraction of plasma proteins (normal human plasma has a fibrinogen content of 2–4 mg/ml of a total of 70 mg protein/ml), its conversion
     levels as compared with those who did not follow the diet. (35) The GISSI prevention trial, a study of more than 11,000 Italian men, showed that those who ate the most Mediterranean-type foods, such as fish, fruit, raw and cooked vegetables, and olive oil, were 50% less likely to die over the 6 1/2 years of the study than those who did not follow these guidelines. (36) Those men who supplemented with 1 g of fish oil had a significant reduction in death from all causes (-20%), cardiovascular-related death (-30%), and sudden cardiac death Sudden Cardiac Death Definition

    Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is an unexpected death due to heart problems, which occurs within one hour from the start of any cardiac-related symptoms. SCD is sometimes called cardiac arrest.
     (-45%). (37)

    Certain foods and spices can have a beneficial as well as harmful effect on inflammation (for a review, see Tables 2, 3, and 4). (38,39)

    Mind-body Influences on Inflammation

    To see if baseline omega-6 to omega-3 ratios influenced the production of inflammatory cytokines when an individual is exposed to stress, Maes et al (40) studied 27 college students before and after a difficult examination. They found that those students who had an unfavorably high omega-6:3 ratio had greater production of inflammatory cytokines (TNF, interferon, IL-10 and IL-6) after the stressful test than those students with a more favorable low omega-6:3 ratio. (40) This study supports that stress can worsen inflammation. But, more importantly, our baseline nutritional balance of essential fatty acids can influence how much inflammation our body produces when exposed to a psychologic stress.

    There are many cytokines, but we have identified only a handful: 15 interleukins, 2 interferons, and 2 tumor necrosis factors Tumor necrosis factors (or the TNF-family) refers to a group of cytokines family which can cause apoptosis.

    Tumor necrosis factor-alpha is the most well known member of this class, and sometimes the term "tumor necrosis factor" is used to refer to this specific form.
    . The cytokines are messengers that directly communicate between the immune system immune system

    Cells, cell products, organs, and structures of the body involved in the detection and destruction of foreign invaders, such as bacteria, viruses, and cancer cells. Immunity is based on the system's ability to launch a defense against such invaders.
     and the brain. It is well documented that people with depression have elevated levels of CRP (41) and inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF. (42) This probably helps explain the increased risk of cardiac events in depressed individuals. (43,44)

    We also know that when we give cytokines as medicine, we can induce a state of depression. For example, when alpha-interferon is given for patients with hepatitis, the side effects Side effects

    Effects of a proposed project on other parts of the firm.
     that limit this therapy the most are depressed mood, fatigue, anhedonia anhedonia /an·he·do·nia/ (an?he-do´ne-ah) inability to experience pleasure in normally pleasurable acts.

    an·he·do·ni·a
    n.
    , and hypersomnia. (45) It makes sense that when our body produces these chemicals to fight infection that it would cause us to become fatigued and tired, so our body is able to conserve energy to help recover.

    We have established that depression is associated with elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines. When we give these cytokines as medicine, depression is a significant side effect. How can we influence this process in a positive way? We know that exercise is one of the best treatments for depression and fatigue (46) and that it is inversely related to CRP levels. (47) Exercise would also help with weight loss, which would have a beneficial influence on inflammation and its markers. (48,49) We know that social support and connection is also needed to help treat and prevent depression. In fact, both exercise and social support have been found to reduce CRP. (50) Common sense and medical experience support the use of exercise, weight loss, and social support for health.

    We are also realizing that stimulation of the vagus nerve vagus nerve
    n.
    Either of the tenth pair cranial nerves that originate from the medulla oblongata and supply multiple vital organs, including the lungs, heart, and gastrointestinal viscera.
     (or the parasympathetic nervous system parasympathetic nervous system: see nervous system.
    Parasympathetic nervous system

    A portion of the autonomic system. It consists of two neuron chains, but differs from the sympathetic nervous system in that the first neuron has a
    ) plays a positive role in reducing inflammation. Vagus nerve stimulation vagus nerve stimulation Psychiatry Electroconvulsive therapy
    in which a pacemaker-like device stimulates the vagus nerve. See Electroconvulsive therapy.
     prevents the release of TNF, giving us a better understanding of how the mind can influence this inflammatory state through both positive and negative influences. (51) Learning a simple abdominal breathing exercise stimulates relaxation in part by its vagal vagal /va·gal/ (va´gal) pertaining to the vagus nerve.

    va·gal
    adj.
    Of or relating to the vagus nerve.



    vagal

    pertaining to the vagus nerve.
     nerve influence. Understanding how this can also reduce inflammation will provide further incentive on how this inexpensive therapeutic technique can improve health. TNF inhibitors are the latest drugs to show benefit in chronic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis rheumatoid arthritis

    Chronic, progressive autoimmune disease causing connective-tissue inflammation, mostly in synovial joints. It can occur at any age, is more common in women, and has an unpredictable course.
     and inflammatory bowel disease inflammatory bowel disease
    n. Abbr. IBD
    Any of several incurable and debilitating diseases of the gastrointestinal tract characterized by inflammation and obstruction of parts of the intestine.
    . Compare the cost of abdominal breath work with the cost of TNF inhibitors, with the potential risk of malignancy and opportunistic infection opportunistic infection
    n.
    An infection by a microorganism that normally does not cause disease but becomes pathogenic when the body's immune system is impaired and unable to fight off infection, as in AIDS and certain other diseases.
     with the later, (52) and the decision seems straightforward.

    Conclusion

    There is mounting evidence that too much inflammation over time can result in an elevated risk of chronic disease and its progression. Both the underlying causes and treatments for this condition are related to lifestyle choices. Improving nutrition, maintaining appropriate weight, exercising, and reducing chronic stress and depression will result in a homeostasis homeostasis

    Any self-regulating process by which a biological or mechanical system maintains stability while adjusting to changing conditions. Systems in dynamic equilibrium reach a balance in which internal change continuously compensates for external change in a feedback
     that will require fewer medications to maintain health. The treatment and prevention of inflammation is a good example of the importance of empowering our patients to be active partners in their care. This collaboration will help us realize the greater importance of health-oriented care, so fewer resources are required to treat disease.
    It is part of the cure to wish to be cured.
    --Seneca
    
    Table 1. Using glycemic index and glycemic load
    
    * Note whether an index is based on a value of glucose = 100 or white
      bread = 100. For a scale based on white bread, glucose has a value of
      140.
    * Index ranges (based on a glucose value of 100)
      ** High: 70-100
      ** Medium: 50-70
      ** Low: <50
    * Glycemic load ranges
      ** High: >20
      ** Medium: 11-19
      ** Low: <10
    * Encourage patients to focus on eating foods that are in the medium or
      low ranges. Some overall rules to help with this include:
      ** Use beans as a side dish instead of rice or potatoes.
      ** The less pasta is cooked (the more el dente), the lower its
         glycemic index. If it is still slightly firm when bitten, that is
         better.
      ** If foods with a higher index are eaten, it is best to eat them in
         smaller quantities at the same time as foods with a lower index.
      ** Make cereal and fruit choices based on their glycemic index. Whole
         grains that have not been ground have lower indices. Tropical
         fruits tend to have higher indices.
    * Encourage people to eat smaller, more frequent meals. Make lunch the
      main meal of the day.
    * Remember that glycemic index does not correlate with nutrient content.
      Balanced nutrition must also be emphasized.
    * When multiple foods are eaten, glycemic index can change based on how
      the foods affect each other's digestion. It is reasonable to average
      the indices of the foods consumed, adjusting for the proportion of
      carbohydrate obtained from each food. This is "glycemic load"
      (glycemic index X dietary carbohydrate content).
    * Some patients are much more comfortable simply counting carbohydrate
      servings. Be careful not to make recommendations that are overly
      complicated.
    * For those who monitor their own blood sugars, diet can be tailored to
      match their own personal glucose readings.
    * Glycemic index can be used to normalize the blood sugars of people
      with type II diabetes, to decrease insulin resistance, to lower
      triglycerides, and to control hypoglycemia.
    
    Information from www.glycemicindex.com (accessed November 2, 2004) and
    from References 20 through 23.
    
    Table 2. Foods likely to promote inflammation
    
    Characteristic            Example foods             Link to inflammation
    
    High saturated fat        * Animal products         Increase production
      content                   (except cold water        of arachidonic
                                fish)                     acid,
                              * Dairy products            prostaglandin),
                                                          and leukotrienes.
    High omega-6 fatty acid   * Partially hydrogenated  Increase production
      content                   oils                      of arachidonic
                              * Margarine                 acid,
                              * Corn, cottonseed,         prostaglandin
                                grapeseed, peanut,        [E.sub.2], and
                                safflower, sesame,        leukotrienes.
                                soybean, and sunflower
                                oils
                              * Any food with a long
                                shelf life (pastries,
                                chips, crackers)
    Foods with a high         * Bagels                  Exact mechanism
      glycemic load           * English muffins           unclear. More
                              * Baked potatoes            pronounced insulin
                              * Instant rice              surges are linked
                              * Rice and corn cereals     to increased
                              See Table 1 [glycemic       production of
                                index table]              tumor necrosis
                                                          factor-[alpha],
                                                          C-reactive
                                                          protein, and free
                                                          radicals.
    High-allergenicity foods  * Dairy products          Possible relation
                              * Wheat                     to immunoglobulin
                              * Eggs                      G release. May be
                              Varies among                associated with
                                individuals.              increased
                                                          intestinal
                                                          permeability to
                                                          larger, allergenic
                                                          proteins.
    
    Information from References 38 and 39.
    
    Table 3. Foods that may have a beneficial influence on inflammation (a)
    
    Characteristic            Example foods             Mechanism
    
    Foods with high omega-3   * Cold water fish         Essential fatty acid
      fatty acid content        (salmon, mackerel,        metabolism shifted
                                sardines, herring)        to creating less
                              * Flax seeds or oil         inflammatory
                              * Walnuts                   PG[E.sub.1] and
                              * Green leafy vegetables    PG[E.sub.3] and
                                                          leukotrienes
    Foods containing high     * Yellow/orange/red       Decrease levels of
      levels of antioxidants    vegetables                free radicals in
                              * Red/purple/blue           the bloodstream
                                vegetables                which could
                              * Dark leafy greens         trigger the
                                                          inflammatory
                                                          response. Low
                                                          antioxidant levels
                                                          tied to higher
                                                          levels of some
                                                          inflammatory
                                                          cytokines
                              * Cruciferous vegetables  (Allium vegetables
                                (broccoli,                release sulfur-
                                cauliflower, Brussels     containing
                                sprouts)                  compounds which
                              * Citrus fruits             alter platelet
                              * Black teas                aggregation and
                              * Allium vegetables         lipid metabolism)
                                (onions, garlic)
    Spices containing         * Ginger                  * Inhibits cyclo-
      particular                                          and lipooxygenase
      antiinflammatory                                    pathways
      chemical compounds      * Rosemary                * Rosmarinic acid in
                                                          rosemary decreases
                                                          inflammatory
                                                          cytokines,
                                                          chemokines, and
                                                          allergen-specific
                                                          antibody
                              * Turmeric                * Curcumin from
                                                          turmeric
                                                          suppresses COX-2
                                                          expression
                              * Oregano                 * Contains compounds
                                                          with
                                                          antimicrobial,
                                                          antioxidant
                                                          antimutagenic
                                                          properties. Alters
                                                          lipid metabolism.
                              * Cayenne                 * Capsaicin lowers
                                                          levels of acidic
                                                          glycoproteins
                                                          which precede
                                                          inflammation,
                                                          affects pain
                                                          transmission
                              * Clove                   * COX-2 inhibition
                              * Nutmeg                  * Myristicin
                                                          inhibits TNF-
                                                          [alpha] release in
                                                          animal studies
    Herbs containing          * Feverfew                * Prostaglandin
      antiinflammatory                                    inhibition
      chemical components     * Boswellia               * Inhibition of both
                                                          lipooxygenase and
                                                          cyclooxygenase
                                                          pathways
    
    (a) PGE, prostaglandin E; COX cyclooxygenase; TNF, tumor necrosis
    factor.
    Information from References 38 and 39.
    
    Table 4. Summary of beneficial influences on inflammation
    
    Reducing inflammation
    
        Exercise
        Weight loss
        Smoking cessation
        Mediterranean diet
        Low glycemic load foods
        Noncharred foods
        Omega-3 fatty acids
        Social support
        Treatment of depression
        Stress management
        Vagal nerve stimulation (abdominal breath work)
        Rx
          Aspirin
          Statins
          Fibrates
          Angiotensin receptor blockers
          Niacin
          Glitazones
          Multivitamin in diabetics
    


    Accepted December 13, 2004.

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    RELATED ARTICLE: Key Points

    * Foods rich in partially hydrogenated oils and trans-fatty acids increase inflammation.

    * The most appropriate ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids is approximately 4:1. This requires increasing the intake of omega-3 fatty acids and reducing the intake of omega-6 fatty acids.

    * Eating charred, grilled, or burnt foods can increase inflammation.

    * Eating foods with a high glycemic index and load increases inflammation and free radical production.

    * The mind-body interface can play a significant role in triggering the inflammatory cascade, and stress and depression should be addressed as part of the therapeutic approach to inflammatory disorders.

    * Both the cause and treatment of chronic inflammation are related to lifestyle choices. Improvement in nutrition, weight, exercise, and stress will have the most beneficial long-term influences.

    David P. Rakel, MD, and Adam Rindfleisch, MD, MPHIL MPhil Master of Philosophy

    MPhil n abbr (= Master of Philosophy) → título universitario de postgrado see also master's degree

    MPhil n abbr (US) (=
     

    From the Department of Family Medicine, University of Wisconsin Integrative Medicine and Faculty Development and Integrative Medicine, University of Wisconsin Medical School, Madison, WI.

    Supported by NIH "Not invented here." See digispeak.

    NIH - The United States National Institutes of Health.
     grants, Co-PI R01 grant, "The Placebo Effect in Clinical Practice" from NCCAM NCCAM National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NIH)
    NCCAM National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month (March) 
    , NIH. http://www.nccam.nih.gov/fi/concepts/rfa/at-02-001.htm; Co-PI R-25 grant for Complementary and Alternative Medicine The term complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is an umbrella term for alternative medicine and complementary medicine.

    Alternative medicine describes practices used in place of conventional medical treatments.
     education in medical school curriculums; grant No. 1-R25-ATO 0529-01A1 from NCCAM, NIH.

    Reprint requests to Dr. David Rakel, Department of Family Medicine, University of Wisconsin Medical School, 621 Science Dr., Madison, WI 53711. Email: drakel@fammed.wisc.edu.
    COPYRIGHT 2005 Southern Medical Association
    No portion of this article can be reproduced without the express written permission from the copyright holder.
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    Date:Mar 1, 2005
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