Air quality in the Delhi-NCR region has plummeted, with the air quality index consistently staying well beyond safe levels. As pollution thickens, individuals are once again facing respiratory issues, eye irritation, coughing, and fatigue. This escalation in pollution affects people of all ages, from children to seniors. While many rely on air purifiers and face masks, medical professionals emphasize that these measures alone are insufficient. Adopting additional daily habits is essential for lung protection and mitigating the adverse effects of polluted air.
In a discussion with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Leelamohan PVR, a consultant physician at Padithem Health Care and Practo in Bengaluru, outlined three simple health practices that anyone can integrate into their routine. He expressed concern that the rise in polluted air is a significant health issue, contributing to an increase in respiratory diseases. Masks and purifiers play a role, but greater care in daily practices is imperative, particularly during high pollution periods.
The first recommendation is to limit time spent outdoors. Pollution peaks during early morning and late evening due to fluctuations in air temperature. These times see smog settle lower, making the air particularly hazardous. Dr. Leelamohan advised against outdoor activities during these peak hours and suggested keeping windows shut while monitoring real-time AQI updates before leaving the house. Those who exercise outdoors should adjust their routines to indoor environments or opt for mid-day when pollution levels are marginally lower.
Dr. Leelamohan's second piece of advice revolves around natural methods to support lung health. Staying well-hydrated is one of the most straightforward ways, as water assists the body in flushing out toxins. He also advocated for the practice of deep-breathing exercises, such as pranayama or diaphragmatic breathing, which can enhance lung capacity and clear airways. Additionally, utilizing a saline nasal rinse can alleviate irritation caused by dust and pollutants, making breathing more manageable.
The third suggestion involves enriching the body with nutritious foods. Dr. Leelamohan highlighted that pollution raises oxidative stress levels in the body, leading to cell damage from harmful free radicals. Incorporating foods rich in antioxidants can shield the lungs from this harm. He recommended including citrus fruits, amla, turmeric, leafy greens, walnuts, and omega-3-rich foods in daily meals. These foods can help combat inflammation, bolster immunity, and promote lung health during smog-filled days.
Dr. Leelamohan emphasized that small daily habits, such as maintaining hydration, ensuring clean indoor air, consuming antioxidant-rich foods, and engaging in mindful breathing, can significantly improve overall health. While these measures won't eliminate pollution, they help the body stay resilient in its presence.
He also reminded readers to consider these recommendations as general guidance that does not substitute for medical advice. Individuals suffering from chronic respiratory problems or persistent symptoms should seek professional medical assistance.
This report is based on user-generated content from social media, and claims mentioned in the original post have not been independently verified by HT.com.
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