Inflammation is one of the body's most important defence systems.
When we have an infection or injury, the immune system sends signals that help control the threat and begin repair. The affected area may become warm, swollen, painful or red.
This short-term response is useful. It should become quieter once the problem has been controlled.
As we age, however, low levels of inflammation may remain active even when there is no obvious infection or injury.
Scientists often call this inflammaging: a combination of the words inflammation and ageing.
Inflammaging is usually not the same as the strong inflammation caused by an acute illness. It is often quieter, more widespread and longer lasting.
Why can this happen?
Older cells may release more inflammatory signals. Damaged mitochondria-the structures that produce energy inside cells-may also send danger messages to the immune system.
At the same time, the body may become less efficient at removing damaged proteins, worn-out cell parts and cells that are no longer working normally.
When this biological "waste" remains in tissues, the immune system may continue to react to it.
Over time, persistent inflammation can place extra stress on blood vessels, muscles, the brain and organs involved in metabolism.
It has been linked with many age-related conditions, but it is not a diagnosis on its own and it does not have one single cause.
A slightly raised inflammation marker also does not automatically mean that a person is ageing badly.
Infection, excess body fat, autoimmune disease, dental problems, poor sleep and many other conditions can affect the same blood tests.
This is why inflammation markers must always be interpreted in context.
The goal is not to switch off inflammation completely. We need it to fight infection, heal wounds and respond to danger.
The goal is to reduce unnecessary, long-lasting activation while preserving a healthy immune response.
Regular physical activity, not smoking, adequate sleep, good dental care and control of excess weight, blood glucose and cardiovascular risk can all help reduce important sources of chronic inflammation.
A balanced diet rich in minimally processed foods may also support metabolic and immune health.
There is no single supplement that can "cure" inflammaging.
The most useful approach is to identify and treat real causes of inflammation while supporting the everyday systems that help the body recover and return to balance.
