Inflammaging is the term for low-grade, chronic inflammation that gradually builds in the body as we age. It’s not the result of infection or injury; it’s internal, persistent, and often unnoticed.
But its effects are wide-reaching.
This slow, steady inflammation can:
- Disrupt cellular repair mechanisms
- Accelerate immune system decline
- Increase oxidative stress
- Contribute to conditions like heart disease, cognitive decline, and metabolic dysfunction
In simple terms, chronic inflammation ages you.
So, What's Fueling Inflammaging Today?
Several modern-day stressors fuel inflammaging:
- Chronic stress
- Poor sleep quality
- Nutrient depletion
- Environmental toxins (polutions, plastics, endocrine disruptors)
The result? Cellular fatigue, slower repair, and signs of ageing that show up earlier.
Can You Slow Down Biological Age?
Yes, and the science backs it.
Clinical research continues to show that foundational habits done consistently can protect and even reverse biological ageing markers. The goal isn't to stop time, but to support your body's repair systems so they keep running efficiently, year after year.
Here's how to help your body age better, not faster;
Fuel your mitochondria through movement, quality protein and micronutrients like magnesium, B vitamins and CoQ10
Regulate your stress response through daily rituals for nervous system recovery using tools such as adaptogens, breathwork and consistent routines to keep cortisol in check.
Fight inflammation with food by prioritizing antioxidant rich plants, healthy fats, hydration and deep sleep.
Further Reading:
Franceschi, C., & Campisi, J. (2014). Chronic inflammation (inflammaging) and its potential contribution to age-associated diseases. The Journals of Gerontology: Series A, 69(Suppl_1), S4–S9. https://doi.org/10.1093/gerona/glu057
Furman, D. et al. (2019). Chronic inflammation in the etiology of disease across the life span. Nature Medicine, 25(12), 1822–1832. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41591-019-0675-0
Tsigos, C., & Chrousos, G. P. (2002). Hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis, neuroendocrine factors and stress. Journal of Psychosomatic Research, 53(4), 865–871.
McEwen, B. S. (2006). Protective and damaging effects of stress mediators: Central role of the brain. Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience, 8(4), 367–381.