Inflammation Is the Newest Buzzword in Wellness

In the ever-shifting landscape of wellness, inflammation has become the newest buzzword – once relegated to medical textbooks, today it is front and centre in conversations about health, beauty and longevity. But what does it really mean, and why has it captured so much attention?

Unlike acute inflammation – clear and visible, such as that from a cut or a sprain – chronic inflammation is subtle. It creeps along in the background, disrupting energy levels and digestion, and is associated with heart problems, anxiety, fatigue and premature ageing. It is no wonder that more and more people are trying to control it through diet, movement and skincare.

Travel can influence inflammation in surprising ways, both positive and negative. Disrupted routine, jet lag, poor sleep and processed airport food can raise cortisol levels and inflammatory markers; long flights reduce circulation, causing swelling. On the other hand, rest, contact with nature, gentle movement and reduced stress can temper inflammation.

For me, inflammation is a deep concern – living with an autoimmune condition called Hashimoto’s, I am always looking for ways to ease it in order to reduce symptoms such as dry skin, eczema, hair loss, brain fog and severe exhaustion. I have tried both medically sound protocols and TikTok tricks, but I thought perhaps a more complex approach was needed.

I was fortunate enough to take part in a unique anti-inflammatory retreat at Palazzo Fiuggi, in the quiet hills of Italy south-east of Rome. This exclusive refuge dedicated to anti-inflammatory wellness combines advanced medical testing with personalised, scientifically designed therapies. The programme includes stress management, detox treatments, anti-inflammatory nutrition and meals created with the help of renowned chef Heinz Beck and a team of nutritionists. In addition, the mineral-rich water of Fiuggi, known for its traditional healing properties, adds a further dimension to what is on offer.

Here are the five most valuable lessons from the retreat:

1. Food is not just fuel – it is feedback

Chef Beck explains how antioxidant-rich foods can calm inflammation: a ginger shot before a meal, leafy greens, fruit, fresh vegetables and berries are ever-present; on the other hand, fried food, artificial sugars, dairy, caffeine and alcohol are avoided, all known for their inflammatory potential. Serafini, a nutrition expert, notes that centenarians in Abruzzo eat something savoury in the morning, a substantial lunch at 12.30 and dinner by 7 p.m., synchronising their metabolism with circadian rhythms.

2. A holistic approach matters more than you might think

The myth that inflammation can be cured by a single solution – a supplement, a meal plan, a workout – is a risky one. Sleep, stress, emotional balance and how the nervous system handles pressure are just as important. Dr Sturm uses a PEMF mat daily, red light, hypoxic bike training, walking barefoot, and avoids perfumed products – all integrated into her routine. Results built over time can be hard to notice, but they are effective.

3. Our skin can indicate our level of inflammation

Inflammation is often reflected in redness, irritation, swelling, acne, dry skin or premature ageing – it is an uncontrolled immune response. To calm the skin, it is essential to reduce the triggers: stress, insufficient sleep, harsh products. A skin barrier protection formula – ceramides, niacinamide, fatty acids and soothing ingredients (green tea, aloe vera, chamomile, purslane) – is recommended, while retinol is avoided because it can be too aggressive and can worsen inflammation.

4. Quality sleep reduces inflammation

Chronic stress maintains an inflammatory level even during sleep. At the retreat, hikes in fresh air, infrared sauna and meditation or breathing practices are just as important as sleep. During rest, the body lowers pro-inflammatory cytokines, repairs tissue and balances cortisol. Lack of sleep increases inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein and the risk of inflammatory disease. Recommendations: 7–9 hours a night, regularity, a cool and dark environment, avoiding screens, heavy meals or alcohol late at night, a relaxation routine and, if needed, supplements with magnesium or calming ingredients.

5. Exercise is medicine, but the dose matters

The “the harder the better” idea does not apply here. Regular movement helps, but workouts that are too intense or excessive – long runs, multiple HIIT classes without recovery – can increase inflammation. If you notice persistent fatigue, poor sleep or constant muscle soreness, rethink your routine. Gentle but frequent movement – walking, mobility work, light strength training, swimming, yoga, Pilates – combined with sleep and nutrition supports the body more effectively.

Source: Condé Nast Traveler – Inflammation Is the Latest Wellness Buzzword, by Anita Bhagwandas, 26 July 2025 (https://www.cntraveler.com/story/inflammation-is-the-latest-wellness-buzzword)