Inflammation has become a household word. It is involved in a wide variety of physical and mental health conditions and disorders that negatively affect the lives of millions of people. Inflammation is mentioned when someone is experiencing joint pain, headaches, and a myriad of other symptoms, and rightfully so, as inflammation is the origin of pain.

The inflammatory process is not inherently negative. It is the body's natural defense mechanism against harmful outside invaders. Acute, or short-term inflammation represents a few days of appropriate immune system activity intended to restore health to damaged tissues. Problems arise when that inflammation becomes chronic, lasting months or even years. The result is pain, immune system disorders, and significant diseases, including heart disease and cancer.

True resolution of pain is possible. Identifying the origin of the inflammation that causes arthritis, fibromyalgia, back and neck pain, migraines and other pain disorders is the first step. A variety of culprits may be involved which include:

Immune challenges that the body is unable to eliminate

• Autoimmune conditions
• Exposure to foreign substances, including metals and toxic chemicals
• Food intolerances and sensitivities
• Nutrient deficiencies

Individuals can reduce their inflammation levels in many ways:

• The consumption of anti-inflammatory nutrients from a variety of vegetables, fruits, and omega-3 fatty acids from salmon, tuna, or chia seeds are highly advised.
• Adding more nutrient-dense foods to the diet allows for the natural reduction of inflammation-inducing processed foods.
• If a food item is wrapped in plastic or contains refined sugars, it likely contributes to pain and other inflammatory conditions.
• Managing and reducing emotional stress levels are other important aspects of lowering inflammation and restoring well-being.

“Every day we treat people who are struggling with chronic inflammation by discovering and resolving the cause of a patient’s inflammation,” shares Chelsea Kazmierczak-Goethel, holistic health practitioner at MetroEast Natural Healing Center. “Nutrition Response Testing, a non-invasive methodology, allows for the identification of the origin of ill health by analyzing the toxicities or deficiencies in the body.”

Removal of the immune challenges, toxic substances, or food intolerances along with the addition of nutrients needed to correct inflammation and imbalances that occur through an individualized treatment plan. With personalized support, patients find themselves living pain-free for the first time in years or decades.

Ruth* came to MetroEast after 25 years of fatigue and pain related to fibromyalgia and arthritis. At 75 years old, she was missing her active younger days and decided that it was no longer acceptable for her pain to prevent her from participating in her life. Other treatments, including medications and surgeries, had not restored her health. After eight weeks on her inflammation-reducing personalized program, Ruth is celebrating improved energy, reduced joint and muscle pain, and has returned to the activities she loves, including gardening and spending time with her family.

*Name changed to protect patient privacy. Personal story shared with permission.

Chelsea Kazmierczak-Goethel 

Courtesy of MetroEast Natural Healing Center

 Chelsea Kazmierczak-Goethel is a holistic practitioner at MetroEast Natural Healing Center, in Oakdale. She is advanced clinically trained in Nutrition Response Testing holds a bachelor's degree in Human Physiology and is currently completing her Master of Science in Applied Clinical Nutrition. Her own health issues brought her into the natural healthcare world, but the return of joy and optimum health to her patients happily fuels her every day. She is grateful to have been a part of the healing journey of so many patients over the past four years. To learn more, visit NutritionChiropractic.com.

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