Think of inflammation as your body’s built-in repair team. After a workout—particularly a tough one that challenges your muscles—tiny microtears occur in your muscle fibers. This might sound alarming, but it’s actually what prompts growth and strength gains.
“To repair damaged muscles, your body responds with acute inflammation to absorb the damaged cells and get rid of them,” explains holistic nutritionist and athlete Melissa Boufounos, CHN. “This breakdown and repair process is how you gradually get stronger, fitter, and grow muscle.”
In this context, inflammation is temporary and targeted. It shows up, does its job, and fades away—leaving you stronger than before.
