Is inflammation bad or good?

Inflammation is something we all could recognize when we cut a finger, sprain or strain a ligament or muscle, fight off the common cold, etc.  This type of inflammation is acute and is recognized by redness, heat, swelling and pain. These are the bodies response and will alert the immune system to respond and bring in immune cells, nutrients, etc. to help healing.  This is GOOD!

There is also another form of inflammation called chronic and this is a result of long-term inflammatory process happens when immune system continues to be activated for weeks, months or years.

Chronic inflammation can stem from infection, autoimmune disease, environmental exposures, or metabolic dysregulation, and creates an environment that is rich in pro-inflammatory cell messengers (cytokines), immune cell recruitment, growth factors, and reactive oxygen/nitrogen species. These mediators influence genomic instability, DNA damage, epigenetic alterations, and resistance to programmed cell death, which promotes cellular change from a non-cancerous to a cancerous cell or group of cells.

DNA Damage – Chronic inflammation produces free radicals (reactive oxygen/nitrogen species) that can damage DNA, increasing the risk of mutations that lead to cancer.

Tumor Growth Support – Inflammatory cells release growth factors and cytokines that encourage blood vessel formation (angiogenesis) and supply tumors with nutrients.

Immune System Disruption – Persistent inflammation can “reprogram” the immune system, making it less effective at detecting and destroying cancer cells.

Tumor Microenvironment – Cancer thrives in an inflamed environment. Cytokines like TNF-α, IL-6, and NF-κB signaling promote tumor cell survival and spread.

Infection-Related Cancers – Chronic infections that cause inflammation (like H. pylori, hepatitis B/C, HPV) are directly linked to stomach, liver, and cervical cancers.

We often read or hear that we need to reduce and get rid of inflammation, the truth is that we can’t live without it. It’s a balance. While we can see inflammation has both immune support in the short-term, long-term stimulation can promote disease. Additionally, not only can long-term inflammation set the stage for cancer, cancer will also produce inflammation.

The goal is to eradicate or reduce cancer progression with treatment, there are additional ways that you can take steps to reduce inflammation. Working with a naturopathic doctor is a great opportunity to discover the best ways to support reducing chronic inflammation at any point in your cancer journey. 

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Anti-inflammatory diets (Mediterranean, plant-rich foods, omega-3s) help lower risk.
• Physical activity reduces inflammatory markers.
• Managing chronic conditions like obesity, diabetes, or autoimmune disease lowers cancer risk.
• Avoiding tobacco and excess alcohol prevents persistent inflammation in tissues.

Lifestyle & Mind-Body Approaches

• Forest Bathing (Shinrin-Yoku) – Spending time in natural green spaces can lower cortisol and inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP).
• Cold Exposure (Cryotherapy or Cold Showers) – Triggers anti-inflammatory cytokines and may reduce pain and swelling.
• Heat Therapy (Sauna Use) – Regular sauna sessions reduce CRP and improve vascular function, mimicking exercise benefits.
• Laughter Therapy – Genuine laughter reduces stress hormones and boosts immune regulation.
• Meditative Breathing Practices – Slow, paced breathing activates the vagus nerve, improving inflammatory balance.

Nutrition Beyond Basics

• Spices as Medicine – Turmeric, ginger, and clove compounds have direct anti-inflammatory effects.
• Polyphenol-Rich Teas – Green, hibiscus, and rooibos teas can modulate inflammatory pathways.
• Intermittent Fasting or Time-Restricted Eating – Helps regulate immune cell activity and reduce systemic inflammation.
• Fermented Foods – Kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and miso support gut microbiota balance, lowering gut-driven inflammation.
• Omega-3 - highly effective in reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Sleep & Recovery

• Consistent Sleep-Wake Rhythm – Misaligned circadian rhythms raise inflammatory markers; syncing with natural light helps.
• Weighted Blankets – Can improve sleep quality and parasympathetic activation, reducing inflammation linked to poor rest.

Creative & Sensory Approaches

• Music Therapy – Listening to calming or meaningful music reduces interleukin-6 (IL-6, cytokine) and other inflammatory biomarkers.
• Art or Journaling Therapy – Expressive activities reduce stress, which is strongly tied to chronic inflammation.
• Aromatherapy with Anti-Inflammatory Oils – Lavender, frankincense, and rosemary can reduce stress-related inflammation.

Movement with a Twist

• Tai Chi & Qigong – Gentle movement plus mindfulness reduces inflammatory cytokines.
• Aquatic Exercise – Buoyancy reduces joint strain while still lowering systemic inflammation.

While these can help reduce inflammation, it is important to discuss all the tools you use with your health care team, as all tools may not be appropriate for you and your current treatment, etc.

Written by Dr. Heather DeLuca