Show Notes Inflammation is one of the body’s most important defense mechanisms—but when it doesn’t shut off, it can quietly contribute to serious health problems. In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison speaks with Dr. Charis Meng, a rheumatologist at NewYork‑Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, about how inflammation works and why chronic inflammation can put the body at risk. Dr. Meng explains the difference between short‑term, helpful inflammation and long‑term inflammation that lingers for months or years, affecting everything from joints to the heart, brain, and immune system. The conversation explores autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, what causes inflammation, and how lifestyle factors such as diet, sleep, stress, and physical activity can impact inflammation. Dr. Meng also discusses treatment options ranging from targeted immune therapies to lifestyle changes, acupuncture, and emerging research on GLP‑1 medications. This episode offers clear, science‑based guidance to help listeners understand inflammation—and what they can do to help keep it in check. Chapters 00:00 – What Is Inflammation, and When Is It Helpful? How inflammation works as the body’s natural defense system 03:45 – Acute vs. Chronic Inflammation Why inflammation sometimes doesn’t shut off—and how it can cause harm 07:30 – Inflammation and Disease Risk Autoimmune conditions, heart disease, diabetes, and cancer 09:45 – How to Reduce Chronic Inflammation Medical treatments, diet, exercise, sleep, and emerging research   Key Topics Covered Inflammation and the immune system Acute vs. chronic inflammation Autoimmune diseases and rheumatoid arthritis Heart disease, diabetes, and cancer risk Anti‑inflammatory lifestyle habits Mediterranean diet and inflammation Exercise, sleep, and immune balance Acupuncture and integrative care GLP‑1 medications and inflammation research   Takeaway Message Inflammation is the body’s natural healing response, but when it becomes chronic and doesn’t turn off, it can contribute to serious conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. While some chronic inflammation is driven by autoimmune disease or factors beyond our control, healthy habits like diet, exercise, and sleep can still help support the body and reduce long-term health risks.   Doctor Bio Dr. Charis Meng is an assistant attending rheumatologist at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and an assistant professor of clinical medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine, who is also certified in acupuncture. Her practice is in general rheumatology, and her special interests are in treating older patients with chronic pain, low back pain and inflammatory arthritis.