Recently a group of researchers reported that inflammation messes with how people behave and is associated with impulsivity, difficulty focusing, and an inability to delay gratification (as in “I gotta have that doughnut now”). How is it possible for there to be a relationship between inflammation and behavior?
Inflammation is a natural process that wears two hats. Its good-guy hat is involved in defending your body against invasion by bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens or traumas such as cuts or falls. For example, if you cut your finger, your immune system kicks in. The damaged tissue releases substances that result in inflammation and triggers the immune system to block off the injured area, kill any invading organisms that may cause infection, get rid of the damaged tissue, and begin the healing process. As healing progresses, inflammation goes away.
