The #1 Cause of Inflammation, According to Science | Eat This Not That - Eat This, Not That

When we are under stress, our bodies will release a hormone called cortisol, which causes an inflammatory response in our body.

"When the stress response becomes chronic, we develop chronic inflammation, and often, more susceptibility to the above mentioned pro-inflammatory conditions making the situation worse," said Dr.

When people stress, hormones in their body will raise inflammation levels, which, over time, can cause all sorts of damage to your body.

"When the body is put into stress, the sympathetic nervous system is activated," said Serena Poon, a celebrity chef and nutritionist.

"Also commonly called the 'fight or flight' response, activation of the sympathetic nervous system speeds heart rate and pulses the hormone cortisol through your body," said Poon.

"This response is necessary when in danger, and a small amount of stress can support us in realizing success, but if constantly ignited it can lead to inflammation and therefore more serious conditions," said Poon.  Inflammation is linked to almost all chronic diseases. .

"Also called the rest and digest function, activation of the parasympathetic nervous system allows your body to release tension, digest and heal," said Poon.

"Symptoms such as body pain, fatigue, insomnia, depression, gastrointestinal complaints, neurological conditions and poor immune function become more pronounced and ironically, all of these symptoms have been shown to further the inflammatory response overall," said Dr.

To simply treat the disease process alone is ignoring the common thread – the impact of stress on our bodies' inflammatory response.

First: "It provides the body with the nutrients needed to combat stress and inflammation; in particularly antioxidants, minerals, omega-3 fatty acids, and fiber," said Dr.

There are various supplements that can fight inflammation and counteract the impact stress on the body.

These antioxidant effects help ward off the impact of stress on the body," said Dr.

"The utilization of oxygen as a fuel source, the lowering of stress hormones, and a general state of wellbeing can all be attributed to a regular exercise program," said Jamie Costello, MSC, who is VP, Sales & Fitness at Pritikin Longevity.

"Drinking adequate amounts of water can help reduce stress levels by lowering stress hormones and making you healthier overall," said Rosenberg.

But, unfortunately, stress can have a negative impact on our sleep — which then can be detrimental to our bodies.

It improves brain function and helps lower stress hormones," said Rosenberg.

It's easy to think the answer exists in what we put in our body to keep it healthy and stress free.

"Journaling, speaking with someone you trust, and/or meditating are all great tools you can use to help lower stress in your body and make yourself a healthier person," said Rosenberg.

Deep breathing exercises can positively reduce stress levels.

They tend to breathe from the chest and hold in their stomach and that actually intensifies anxiety levels," said Dr.