The Fire Within: Why ‘Inflammaging’ Is the Key to Understanding Why We Age
- Dr Victoria Manning
- Aug 11, 2025
- 3 min read
By Dr Vix Manning, MBBS, GMC-registered Aesthetic & Longevity Doctor
What Is Inflammaging?
Inflammaging is a groundbreaking concept in longevity and anti-ageing science. It describes the chronic, low-grade inflammation that accumulates as we age, silently accelerating the ageing process and increasing the risk for diseases like diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, and even cognitive decline.
If you’ve ever wondered why some people seem to age faster than others—even with similar lifestyles—the answer often lies in their levels of chronic inflammation.
Good vs. Bad Inflammation: What’s the Difference?
Acute Inflammation: Your Body’s First Responder
Acute inflammation is your body’s natural, healthy response to injury or infection. When you cut your finger or catch a cold, your immune system quickly sends neutrophils and macrophages to the site, guided by cytokines (your body’s molecular messengers). This process is swift, efficient, and resolves as soon as the threat is neutralized.
Chronic Inflammation: The Root of Inflammaging
Problems arise when this response never shuts off. Modern life—poor sleep, processed foods, chronic stress, and environmental toxins—keeps your immune system on constant high alert. The result? Chronic inflammation, or “inflammaging,” which slowly damages tissues, disrupts cellular repair, and accelerates visible and invisible signs of ageing.
The Science: What Happens Inside Your Cells?
The Cytokine Cascade
Immune cells like neutrophils, macrophages, and T-cells remain constantly activated.
They release pro-inflammatory cytokines (like IL-6 and TNF-α) more readily as you age.
This creates a feedback loop, with your liver producing C-reactive protein (CRP), perpetuating inflammation.
Over time, this chronic inflammatory state breaks down healthy cells and tissues.
The Cellular Impact
Mitochondria (your cells’ energy factories) become less efficient, increasing oxidative stress and free radical production.
Collagen production drops, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin.
Cell turnover slows, repair mechanisms weaken, and cellular debris accumulates.
The result: your body’s maintenance systems falter, and the signs of ageing accelerate.
Why Inflammaging Matters for Your Health and Appearance
As a doctor specialising in inflammation and longevity, I’ve seen firsthand how addressing chronic inflammation can transform not just how you look, but how you feel. Patients who focus on reducing inflammation often experience:
Improved skin quality and elasticity
Enhanced energy and sleep
Better cognitive function and mood
Healthier inflammatory markers (like improved Omega 6:3 ratio and lower CRP)
Greater overall vitality
How Can You Tackle Inflammaging? My Evidence-Based Approach
Precision Testing:
Identify your personal inflammation status with at-home biomarker tests like the BalanceTest.
Targeted Supplementation:
Use scientifically validated supplements (Omega-3, Zinobiotic, Multivitamin, Viva) tailored to your needs.
Lifestyle Optimisation:
Prioritise sleep, whole foods, stress management, and daily movement.
Cutting-Edge Technology:
Consider proven devices like Nurosym for nervous system regulation.
Why I Wrote “Busting the Code to Ageing”
Despite billions spent on anti-ageing creams and cosmetic procedures, the real secret to longevity is managing chronic inflammation at the cellular level. My new book, Busting the Code to Ageing: How to Win the Inflammation Game, bridges the gap between complex science and practical strategies you can use today.
Ready to Transform Your Health?
Discover the science and solutions behind inflammaging.
Learn how to optimise your lifestyle and supplementation for real, lasting results.
Join a growing community dedicated to evidence-based, healthy ageing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main cause of inflammaging?
Chronic, unresolved inflammation driven by lifestyle factors, poor diet, stress, and environmental toxins.
Can you test for inflammaging?
Yes, with tests like the BalanceTest, Omega 6:3 ratio, and HsCRP blood tests.
How quickly can you see results?
Many people notice improvements in energy, sleep, and skin quality within 3–6 months of targeted intervention.
Have questions about inflammaging or want to book a consultation?
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