There is growing scientific evidence supporting this as a significant contributing factor to chronic low-grade inflammation. While it might not be the single most common cause in isolation, it’s increasingly recognised as a pervasive environmental exposure that plays a role, especially in conjunction with the dietary factors mentioned above.

The Mechanism of How it Happens

Gut Microbiome Disruption (Dysbiosis): Many pesticides and herbicides (e.g., glyphosate) are known to have antimicrobial properties. When ingested, even in low residues, they can disrupt the delicate balance of the gut microbiome, leading to dysbiosis. As discussed previously, dysbiosis is a major driver of gut inflammation and increased intestinal permeability.
Specific example (Low-dose glyphosate..): Glyphosate (the active ingredient in Roundup) has been shown in studies to alter gut bacteria composition, potentially reducing beneficial strains and increasing pathogenic ones, which can lead to inflammation.

Study Title: “Low-dose glyphosate exposure alters gut microbiota composition and modulates gut homeostasis” July 2023.
Authors include: L. Lehman, K. L. Kothari and about 25 other people.

In essence, this study provides strong evidence that even glyphosate exposure at levels considered “safe” can disrupt the gut microbiome by reducing beneficial bacteria and altering microbial function, which then triggers a pro-inflammatory response in the gut. This contributes to the understanding of how chronic, low-level exposure to glyphosate could contribute to the overall inflammatory burden in humans.

Increased Intestinal Permeability: As you know, intestinal permeability allows toxins and undigested food particles to “leak” into the bloodstream, triggering a systemic immune response and inflammation. Pesticides and herbicides can directly contribute to this increased permeability by damaging the gut lining or by promoting dysbiosis that compromises the gut barrier.

Direct Cellular Toxicity and Oxidative Stress: Many pesticides and herbicides are inherently toxic to cells. When absorbed, they can induce oxidative stress (an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants) within cells and tissues. Oxidative stress is a well-known trigger of inflammatory pathways.
Immune System Modulation: These chemicals can directly interact with and dysregulate (take out of balance) immune cells, leading to an inappropriate or persistent inflammatory response. They might trigger immune cells to release pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Mitochondrial Dysfunction: Incase you did not know, the Mitochondrial are the powerhouse in the bacteria that generate most of the chemical energy needed to power the cell’s biochemical reactions. Some pesticides can impair the function of mitochondria leading to cellular stress and inflammation.

Endocrine Disruption: The endocrine system is a network of glads that regulate aspects of the body and this includes responding to the nervous system. Certain pesticides are endocrine disruptors, meaning they interfere with hormones. Hormonal imbalances can also influence inflammatory processes in the body.

Conclusion:
The role of pesticide and herbicide residues in food impacting low-grade chronic inflammation is gaining increasing attention as a significant environmental factor that contributes to this inflammatory burden every day, particularly through its impact on the gut microbiome and cellular effects. It’s seen as an important piece of the factors that exacerbates the problem, especially when combined with a pro-inflammatory foods.