GLOSSARY TERM

Chronic Inflammation

Chronic inflammation is a persistent, low-grade immune response that can last for months or even years. Unlike acute inflammation, which is a necessary and healthy response to injury or infection, chronic inflammation is systemic and damaging to healthy tissues. It is often triggered by lifestyle factors such as a diet high in processed foods and sugar, sedentary behavior, chronic stress, and exposure to environmental toxins.

In the context of metabolic health, chronic inflammation is a primary driver of insulin resistance, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. It creates a state of 'biological stress' that interferes with normal hormonal signaling and cellular function. Reducing systemic inflammation through dietary changes (such as a lectin-free or carb-conscious diet), weight loss, and stress management is essential for restoring metabolic health and preventing the progression of chronic diseases.

📄 Cite This Definition
Clark, R. (2026). Chronic Inflammation. In *CFP Weight Loss glossary*. https://glossary.cfpweightloss.com/chronic-inflammation
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Russell Clark, FNP-C, APRN
About the Author

Russell Clark, FNP-C, APRN, is the founder of CFP Weight Loss in Nashville and CFP Fit Now telehealth. Over 35 years in healthcare — Army Nurse Reserves, Level 1 trauma ER, hospitalist — he developed a 30-week protocol integrating real foods, detox, and low-dose tirzepatide cycling that has helped hundreds of patients lose 30–90 pounds. He and his wife Anne-Marie lost a combined 275 pounds using the same protocol.

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