When I first heard the term chronic low-level inflammation, I pictured a slow-burning fire inside my body. As someone who’s lived with immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), I knew inflammation wasn’t just about swollen joints or red skin—it was a silent storm messing with my platelets. But how exactly does this connect to ITP? And more importantly, could I do anything about it?
What’s the Big Deal About Inflammation?
Inflammation is your body’s “911” response to threats like infections or injuries. But when it becomes chronic—think of it as a fire that never fully goes out—it can backfire. For ITP warriors, this low-grade inflammation might fuel the immune system’s overactive platelet destruction. Research shows ITP patients often have higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and lower anti-inflammatory ones. Cytokines are are proteins that act as messengers between cells, helping your immune system respond to threats and control inflammation. It’s like a seesaw: too much “attack” and not enough “calm down.”
Inflammation is your body’s “911” response to threats like infections or injuries. But when it becomes chronic—think of it as a fire that never fully goes out—it can backfire. For ITP warriors, this low-grade inflammation might fuel the immune system’s overactive platelet destruction. Research shows ITP patients often have higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and lower anti-inflammatory ones. Cytokines are are proteins that act as messengers between cells, helping your immune system respond to threats and control inflammation. It’s like a seesaw: too much “attack” and not enough “calm down.”
How Does This Affect ITP?
Studies suggest chronic inflammation disrupts the balance of immune cells. For example, Th1 and Th17 cells (pro-inflammatory) ramp up, while Treg cells (anti-inflammatory) drop. This imbalance can keep platelet destruction in overdrive. Although there are pharmaceutical options that can be helpful in this situation, my personal preference is to make small lifestyle changes that can reduce inflammation and bring the body back into balance naturally.
Studies suggest chronic inflammation disrupts the balance of immune cells. For example, Th1 and Th17 cells (pro-inflammatory) ramp up, while Treg cells (anti-inflammatory) drop. This imbalance can keep platelet destruction in overdrive. Although there are pharmaceutical options that can be helpful in this situation, my personal preference is to make small lifestyle changes that can reduce inflammation and bring the body back into balance naturally.
Practical Steps to Tame the Flame
- Eat to Soothe, Not Irritate
Focus on anti-inflammatory foods: fatty fish (salmon), leafy greens, berries, and nuts. Avoid processed foods, gluten, excess sugar, and refined carbs, which can fan the flames. - Stress Less, Breathe More
Chronic stress spikes cortisol, a hormone that can worsen inflammation. Try Tai Chi, prayer, or even deep breathing exercises. I found that essential oils help me calm my stress and release some overwhelming emotions. - Move Your Body, Not Your Platelets
Gentle exercise like walking or swimming boosts circulation and reduces inflammation. Avoid overexertion—listen to your body when it needs to rest. - Sleep Like Your Life Depends On It
Poor sleep disrupts immune function. Aim for 7-9 hours nightly. A dark, cool room and a consistent bedtime routine can make a big difference. - Avoid Triggers
Smoking and excessive alcohol are obvious no-nos. Even environmental toxins (like harsh cleaning products) might contribute. Opt for natural alternatives when possible.
Why This Matters for Remission
While managing inflammation isn’t a cure for ITP, it’s a tool to support your body’s balance. By reducing chronic inflammation, you’re creating an environment where treatments (whether conventional or alternative) can work more effectively.
While managing inflammation isn’t a cure for ITP, it’s a tool to support your body’s balance. By reducing chronic inflammation, you’re creating an environment where treatments (whether conventional or alternative) can work more effectively.
Final Thoughts
Healing from ITP taught me that remission isn’t just about platelet numbers—it’s about nurturing your whole body. Chronic inflammation is a sneaky foe, but small, consistent changes can make a difference. Track what works for you, stay curious, and remember: every healthy choice is a step toward staying in control.
Healing from ITP taught me that remission isn’t just about platelet numbers—it’s about nurturing your whole body. Chronic inflammation is a sneaky foe, but small, consistent changes can make a difference. Track what works for you, stay curious, and remember: every healthy choice is a step toward staying in control.
Ready to Take Action?
If you’re inspired to tackle inflammation and support your ITP journey, I’m excited to invite you to my upcoming Free 5 Day Inflammation Reset Challenge! This challenge will offer:
✅ Actionable daily steps to reduce inflammation
✅ Simple, science-backed strategies tailored for ITP warriors
✅ Daily Emails to keep you motivated
If you’re inspired to tackle inflammation and support your ITP journey, I’m excited to invite you to my upcoming Free 5 Day Inflammation Reset Challenge! This challenge will offer:
✅ Actionable daily steps to reduce inflammation
✅ Simple, science-backed strategies tailored for ITP warriors
✅ Daily Emails to keep you motivated
How to Join the Challenge:
- Click the button below - Enter your email and you're in!
- Share this post with fellow ITP fighters who might benefit
- Stay tuned—our challenge begins March 24, 2025. You'll receive some email updates to keep you in the loop!
As someone who has battled an autoimmune disease triggered by chronic stress, I've learned firsthand the crucial link between inflammation and our body's stress response. My journey with Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP) taught me that managing inflammation is key to overall well-being. Reducing inflammation can significantly lower stress levels and promote healing.
Chronic inflammation and stress often feed each other in a vicious cycle. By addressing inflammation, we can interrupt this pattern and experience numerous benefits:
1. Improved mood and mental health: Inflammation is closely tied to depression and anxiety. Reducing it can uplift your spirits and ease psychological stress.
2. Enhanced sleep quality: Better sleep from lowered inflammation helps your body manage stress more effectively.
3. Increased energy levels: Less inflammation means more vitality to tackle daily challenges.
4. Reduced physical discomfort: Alleviating inflammation-related pain lowers overall stress on your body.
5. Supported gut health: A healthier gut, less affected by inflammation, positively impacts stress management.
6. Enhanced cognitive function: Clearer thinking helps you navigate stressful situations more easily.
7. Improved cardiovascular health: A healthier heart contributes to both physical and mental well-being.
To reduce chronic inflammation and lower stress, consider these strategies that have helped me in my recovery:
- Embrace an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3s.
- Exercise regularly, aiming for 30-45 minutes of aerobic activity 4-5 times weekly.
- Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation, prayer or Tai Chi.
- Prioritize quality sleep with a consistent schedule.
- Explore anti-inflammatory supplements, some of which may even support healthy platelet function.
- Maintain a healthy weight to minimize inflammation.
Addressing chronic inflammation creates a positive feedback loop, reducing both inflammation and stress over time. By implementing these (and other) lifestyle changes, I've not only stayed in remission but also discovered a more balanced, energetic way of living.
Remember, everyone's path to healing is unique. Listen to your body, and be patient with your progress. Breaking the stress-inflammation cycle is possible, and the rewards are truly life-changing.
Each month, I invite friends and other “wellness warriors” to join me in an anti-inflammatory protocol called “The 11 Day Jumpstart”. It implements many of the strategies listed above. For more information, click below.
As a survivor of Immune Thrombocytopenia Purpura (ITP), I've walked the challenging path of managing this autoimmune disease. Now in remission, I've discovered a powerful ally in my journey to maintain good health: goji berries. If only I had known about these little red powerhouses during my struggle with ITP! Today, I'm sharing the potential benefits of goji berries for those battling this condition.
Goji berries are more than just a tasty snack. They're packed with antioxidants and polyphenols that may help increase platelet count in ITP patients. Here's how:
1. Fighting Inflammation: Goji berries contain anti-inflammatory compounds like betaine. By reducing inflammation, they may help decrease the immune system's attack on platelets.
2. Antioxidant Shield: Rich in vitamin C, zeaxanthin, and carotenoids, goji berries combat oxidative stress. This protection could improve platelet function and survival.
3. Polyphenol Power: Quercetin and rutin in goji berries may regulate platelet function, potentially preventing thrombotic complications.
4. Immune Balancing Act: Compounds like betaine and polysaccharides in goji berries might help modulate the overactive immune response in ITP.
While goji berries show promise, it's crucial to remember that more research is needed to fully understand their effects on ITP. As with any dietary change, moderation is key, and you may want to consult with your healthcare provider, especially if you're on medication or have other health conditions.
Incorporating goji berries into my daily routine has been a game-changer for me. They're not just a superfood; they're a symbol of hope and healing. After my ITP got into remission, my immune system was still very unbalanced. Goji berries, along with some other lifestyle changes, continue to help keep me feeling my best.
If you're curious about using goji berries as part of an anti-inflammatory protocol, I invite you to learn more.
Click JUMPSTART to discover how to harness the power of goji berries for your health journey.
Remember, your path to wellness is unique. Let's explore natural solutions together, one berry at a time. FREE CONSULTATION
Even after 18 years in remission from ITP (Immune Thrombocytopenia Purpura), one thing still blows my mind - the vastly different perspectives of western and eastern medicine on the root cause of this autoimmune disease.
Western doctors claim there is no root cause; that for some unexplained reason, the immune system simply "flips" and starts attacking the platelets. But traditional Chinese medicine sees it completely differently. TCM believes there is NOTHING wrong with the immune system itself. The problem lies with the platelets - they have become "sick" and toxic. So when the immune system destroys these tainted platelets, it is simply doing its job properly!
What could cause platelets to become toxic in the first place? Anything from built-up pharmaceutical drugs, pesticides, heavy metals or other contaminants in the body can create this toxic state.
Let that sink in - there may be NOTHING wrong with your immune system! This contradicts everything we've been taught about autoimmune conditions. It calls into question the standard approach of suppressing the immune response and boosting platelet production. If the platelets themselves are compromised, then suppressing immunity won't fix the issue. And producing more tainted platelets won't solve it either.
Eastern medicine believes the path to true healing for ITP lies in restoring the health of the platelets themselves. This involves removing toxins from our environment and bodies, while infusing our cells with proper nutrients and bloodstream purification.
If you're one of the many struggling with the challenges of ITP, and the idea of a holistic, detoxification-focused approach resonates with you, I invite you to book a consultation. Together, we can explore ways to remove toxins from your environment and body through diet, lifestyle, and natural remedies. My goal is not to promise a cure, but to be a guide and support system as you seek to restore balance and create an internal environment where platelet health can thrive naturally. The path to healing begins with simple steps towards greater wellness.
As an ITP warrior, I do a lot of research so I can be a good steward of my health. However, I sometimes come across conflicting information. One piece of research seems to answer our question…while another piece of research tells me the exact opposite! I feel caught in the middle….what am I supposed to do?
For example, we often get conflicting information about what may be “good” or “bad” for the platelets in our blood.
TIP #1 – Always look (or ask) for research. We may have well-meaning family and friends who want to share informationthat they heard somewhere. We want to trust our doctors. Our doctor may even be an expert in ITP (if there is such a thing, with ITP being so rare!) However, doctors are not typically experts in nutrition or food. It is up to us to be come experts in…us!
TIP #2 – Beware of the statement “It lowers platelets”. We need to understand the difference between platelet quantity and platelet quality. Platelet count is the actual number that appears on our lab work. Platelet aggregation refers to the “stickiness” of the platelets. Many times we are told something will “lower the platelets”, when in fact, it may make the platelets less sticky. Know the difference! It will help you make an informed decision.
TIP #3 – Research both sides of the argument. You’re going to have to decide who to believe and whose advice you trust enough to follow. Whose information resonates with your personal philosophy of wellness? (It may even happen that your doctor stands on the side that you don’t agree with. I suppose that is a discussion for a different time…)
TIP #4 – Understand the risk-to-benefit ratio. Turmeric, ginger, garlic, oh my! These foods have tremendous health benefits. SOME sources say they can effect platelet aggregation. (There are other sources that say the opposite!) You may decide the health benefits outweigh the possible risk...or not... If you’re undecided, refer back to tip #3.
My point isn’t to tell you what is safe or recommended for your personal health. I encourage you to make that specific decision for yourself. However, my point is….make sure you look at the actual research on BOTH sides of an issue whenever you hear someone say, “That is bad (or good) for your health…” Also, it is Ok to disagree with your doctor. For some support on how to partner with your health care provider, see my blog post WHO'S THE BOSS?
If you're an ITP warrior and we haven't connected yet, drop me a note! MSG ME!
