What Are The Four Horsemen of Health?

We know what you’re thinking - what on earth are the four horsemen of health? Well saddle up because if you don’t know, it’s definitely time for you to find out.

What are the four horsemen of health?

First, let’s meet the horsemen - cancer, heart disease, diabetes and Alzheimer’s. They’re known as the four horsemen as they are the most common and challenging chronic diseases worldwide. And the main thing they have in common? Chronic inflammation. 

Chronic inflammation can damage your cells and organs severely impacting bodily functions which can increase the risk of age-related conditions. But it’s not all doom and gloom. As chronic inflammation is preventable through smart dietary choices, a healthy lifestyle and by eliminating stress. However, when left unchecked, chronic inflammation can cause cellular damage increasing  our biological age.

Fighting chronic inflammation

But let’s dive further into inflammation for a moment.

Inflammation is a natural biological response to tissue damage, infections and chemical or physical agents. Regulated inflammation is essential for our immune systems and tissue remodelling which is why when not under control, inflammation can cause chronic conditions. As we age, we become more prone to inflammation - a condition aptly known as ‘inflammaging’. This is why it’s vital that we take notice of our biological age and take the necessary steps to lower it.

Change your diet

An integral part of tackling inflammation is through your diet. By eating healthily and filling your plate with natural anti-inflammatory ingredients, you can improve your lifestyle and even prolong your lifespan. 

Pulses and grains like quinoa, beans, lentils and buckwheat are brilliant anti-inflammatory bases for your diet as they can be paired with pretty much anything whilst doing your body a lot of good. Similarly, leafy greens aren’t just packed with vitamins, minerals and plant protein but they’re also good at tackling inflammation too!

So now you know about the four horsemen and, more importantly, how to tackle them, it’s time to make mindful steps to handle inflammation. It’s time for you to lead a happier and healthier life, free from the fear of illness.