We live in a world much different than the one in which our ancestors lived. Everything has changed, from how our food is produced to the water we drink and the activities we have. We now live in a world where persistent stress, less sleep, less leisure time, less sunshine and the contact with a plethora of new toxins is now the norm. Pollution, principally air pollution, can have a direct impact on your health. And from all the modern life threats, air pollution is probably one of the most difficult to avoid.
How air pollution can impact your health
Air pollution can be devastating for health. Many studies show that air pollution can negatively impact the fetus, notably by negatively impacting children’s IQ. Air pollution also increases inflammation, promotes asthma, and contributes to diabetes and heart diseases. Pollution has been linked also to mental health conditions such as autism and ADHD. And while avoiding all exposure to pollutants might be impossible, there are some things you can do to lower your own exposure.
What you can do to lower your exposure to environmental toxins
- Avoid doing exercise outdoors in areas with heavy traffic
- Plan your outdoors activities when smog is at lower levels, generally mornings or evenings
- Keep houseplants to purify indoor air
- Choose non-toxic building/decorating materials
- Select furniture and home accessories made of natural materials
- Use non-toxic cleaning products
- Always choose natural care products and cosmetics
- Avoid any item containing “fragrance” in the ingredient list
- If your house has a basement, have it checked for radon
- Consider buying an air purifier
On top of minimizing your exposure, supporting your body to detox naturally is a must. Eating detox foods rich in antioxidants, and that fights inflammation, is a good way to minimize the impact of exposure to daily pollution.
Are you concerned about the health impacts of air pollution? What do you do to lower your own exposure?