SYSTEMIC INFLAMMATION AND CHRONIC DISEASE, EVEN FERTILITY

"Systemic inflammation----the body's response, through the production of white blood cells and other substances, to infection or other threats---is associated with nearly every modern chronic disease, from arthritis to Alzheimer's to autoimmune disorders to gastrointestinal diseases."  And to this list I would add cardiovascular disease, fertility, high cholesterol, and stress as it raises cortisol and the bodies response to this is an increase in white blood cell production.  
Chris Kresser in his book, "Your Personal Paleo Code",  states this in his chapter about EPA and DHA,  essential fatty acids found primarily in fish or often referred to as Omega 3.  Inadequate intake of of EPA and DHA can cause systemic inflammation.  Eating lots of Omega 6 found in refined oils like corn, peanut, soy, safflower, sunflower, present in most processed foods has a pro-inflammatory effect found in everything from salad dressings to crackers to most restaurant foods.

Acupuncture reduces inflammation by releasing neurotransmitters from the brain to the sites of inflammation and reduces the overdrive effect of the immune system by taming it down and reducing the local inflammatory response via more blood flow or less depending on whether the condition is more chronic or acute.  It also regulates the production of hormones inclusive of cortisol the great stress hormone.  In addition, it improves the Mitochondria present in the DNA of the cell especially for division of the follicle into an 8 cell embryo.  These Mitochondria are the energy powerhouses of the cell and we now know that epigenetically(the ability to express or suppress certain genes good or bad), we can influence them in a positive way via diet, acupuncture, lifestyle, to improve the quality and response of this division.

The Spleen and it's role in reproduction

The Spleen in Western terms plays a role in the production and destruction of blood and immune cells. In Chinese Medicine, the spleen system includes the pancreas and governs most energetic processes in the body. The spleen transforms food into usuable nutrients and Qi to produce blood. So if we want a healthy menstrual cycle then we better eat good to have healthy blood. The Spleen is responsible not only for overall energy production but also for hormones such as the thyroid hormone, aspects of progesterone production, and immunologic systems. If the Spleen is weak, thyroid abnormalities, autoimmune processes, allergies, digestive disturbances and bleeding disorders can all occur. Menstrual difficulties can also be caused by its imbalance.

Excessive sugar and refined carbohydrates damage the Spleen and damp, greasy foods clog up its works. When the Spleen is weak we feel tired especially after eating lunch and or are muscles and whole body can ache. Often one has loose stools. In the menstrual cycle, if there is spotting before the period this is a sign of Spleen weakness.

Worry is the emotion associated with the Spleen. Also excessive use of the mind in thinking, studying, concentrating, memorizing over a long period of time tends to weaken the Spleen. This also includes "brooding". Exercise is beneficial. More on the spleen later after I get some nourishment myself. Above is Vals baby, Rachal who is now 3 months old what a cutie! Val had PCOS and worked with me for 6 months.