Our bodies are made up of trillions of cells that renew regularly to keep us healthy. Red blood cells, skin, liver, bones—all replace themselves on different schedules, from days to years. This process is carefully controlled; when injury happens, tissues either regenerate new cells or form scar tissue to patch damage. Scar tissue, while necessary, can block full healing and disrupt cell communication. Some organs, like skin and liver, regenerate well, but others like the heart or brain tend to scar more, limiting recovery. Age, genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors affect how well someone can heal—young people regenerate faster, while older adults or those with chronic diseases may struggle. 

Researchers at places like the Chan Zuckerberg Biohub are working on new ways to track inflammation in real-time to catch diseases early, since chronic inflammation often leads to scarring and long-term health issues. Despite our body’s amazing ability to renew itself, chronic diseases persist when damage happens too fast or repeatedly, overwhelming the repair process. Staying active, eating well, and managing stress can support our body's natural ability to heal and improve overall health.