Ask Dr. D: You're Not Just Getting Older—You May Be Getting More Inflamed

One of the biggest misconceptions I see in my practice is people assuming that feeling tired, achy, gaining weight, or lacking energy is simply a normal part of aging.

I often tell women in their 40s and beyond:

"You're not getting older—you're getting more inflamed."

Of course, age plays a role in how we feel. But many of the symptoms we associate with aging are actually linked to chronic inflammation, which can be influenced by our diet, lifestyle, and environment.

What We Can Learn from Indigenous Populations

In the 1930s, dentist and researcher Dr. Weston A. Price traveled the world studying indigenous populations. He observed remarkably low rates of osteoporosis, heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses among communities eating traditional diets.

As more processed foods, refined sugar, alcohol, and grains became common, chronic disease increased.

While our modern lifestyles look very different today, there are still valuable lessons we can apply to support healthy aging.

1. Prioritize Fat-Soluble Vitamins

Vitamins A, D, E and K play important roles in bone health, immune function and inflammation.

Choose pasture-raised or grass-fed animal products whenever possible, since an animal's diet influences its nutrient profile.

I also encourage patients to have their Vitamin D levels checked. Many adults are lower than optimal and may benefit from supplementation under the guidance of their healthcare provider.

2. Choose Healthy Fats

Many highly processed seed oils can contribute to an imbalanced diet.

Instead, focus on foods rich in healthy fats like:

• Extra virgin olive oil
• Walnuts
• Macadamia nuts
• Wild-caught salmon
• Sardines
• Mackerel
• Grass-fed meats
• High-quality fish oil

These foods provide omega-3 fatty acids that help support a healthy inflammatory response.

3. Support Your Body's Antioxidant Defenses

Glutathione is one of the body's most powerful antioxidants, and levels may decline with chronic inflammation and age.

Some individuals may benefit from liposomal glutathione supplementation, though it's best to discuss what's appropriate with your healthcare provider.

4. Take Care of Your Gut

Your gut microbiome plays a much bigger role than digestion alone.

Healthy bacteria feed on dietary fiber and produce short-chain fatty acids that help support:

• Healthy digestion
• Gut barrier function
• Metabolism
• A balanced inflammatory response

Eating plenty of vegetables, fruits, legumes, and fermented foods can help nourish these beneficial bacteria.

5. Consider CBD as Part of Your Wellness Routine

Research continues to explore CBD's role in supporting a healthy inflammatory response and overall wellness.

Many people also use CBD to help promote relaxation, support recovery after exercise, and maintain everyday balance.

Because everyone's needs are different, finding the right dosage may take some experimentation.

6. Don't Overlook Your Thyroid

If you're experiencing fatigue, weight changes, brain fog, or low energy, it's worth having a conversation with your healthcare provider about your thyroid health.

A more complete thyroid evaluation may include additional markers beyond TSH alone.

7. Watch Your Blood Sugar

Blood sugar spikes and crashes can leave you feeling tired, irritable, and hungry.

Eating balanced meals with protein, healthy fats, and fiber—and understanding how your body responds to certain foods—can go a long way toward supporting steady energy throughout the day.

The Bottom Line

Your 40s and beyond can be some of your healthiest, most rewarding years.

Emotional maturity grows. Confidence grows. Wisdom grows.

Your health can too.

If you're not feeling your best, don't assume it's "just getting older." Talk with your healthcare provider, look for sources of chronic inflammation, and focus on small daily habits that help your body thrive.

Sometimes feeling younger isn't about turning back the clock—it's about reducing the inflammation that's been slowing you down.