People
Breathe better this summer
Instead of your token piece on healthy ways to kickstart the new year - i thought i’d offer some advise on how to support ourself through these devastating fires which are creating hazardous air quality around the country.
The effects of smoke inhalation vary depending on the individual and whether they have predisposing conditions however these measures should be implemented regardless.
My Top tips:
- Download an air quality app. Plume, AirVisual Air Quality forecast, Air matters and check your suburb and surrounding suburbs.
- See if your air conditioner has a recirculating options to utilise air within the home instead of from outside. Most cars have this option so ensure you switch settings.
- Invest in an air purifier and steriliser if possible - I am currently using a portable air purifier and steriliser from Hextio Radic8.
- Limit time outdoors - stay inside and close windows and doors when poor air quality is poor.
- Avoid exercising outdoors as the body demands more air with an increased heart rate.
- Increase intake of antioxidant rich foods and anti-inflammatory foods to help protect against pollutants. Include foods such as goji berries, blueberries, cranberries, leafy greens, beetroot, broccoli, kale, oranges, turmeric, olive oil, almonds, ginger, kiwi fruit, carrots, pumpkin, sweet potato, artichokes.
- P2/N95 masks - these types of masks filter out fine particles in the air and are particularly important for those close to the fires.
For people that have the means to improve exposure to poor air quality please consider these recommendations. I understand this is a luxury for some to be focusing on when there are people in the thick of it, but for our children, and elderly particularly this is extremely important.