Inflammaging (Franceschi) is the chronic, sterile, low-grade inflammation that accumulates with age. Distinct from acute inflammation; persistent and pervasive.
Mechanism — Driven by senescent cell SASP, gut microbiome shifts, mitochondrial DNA leakage, hormonal changes, and immune cell dysregulation. NF-kB signaling is chronically elevated. Underlies cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, neurodegeneration, sarcopenia, and most cancers.
Use case — The integrated longevity protocol IS the anti-inflammaging protocol — sleep, exercise, low-glycemic eating, sufficient omega-3s, polyphenols, senescent cell management, microbiome care. Track via hs-CRP, IL-6 trends.
Caveats — There's no single 'cure' for inflammaging — it's the cumulative effect of dozens of upstream inputs. Address them collectively, not in isolation.