If you’re eating well and trying to stay active but still feel achy, fatigued, or generally “off,” you’re not imagining it. What doesn’t help is assuming inflammation is influenced only by the foods you eat.

If you feel the urge to check your phone the moment there's a quiet moment—or find it difficult to simply sit without doing something—you’re not imagining it. What doesn’t help is believing every spare minute should be filled with productivity or entertainment.

If you start the morning feeling energized but find yourself reaching for another coffee or a sugary snack before lunch, you’re not imagining it. What doesn’t help is thinking breakfast is only about filling your stomach or checking off the first meal of the day.