Smog: The Air Quality Index (AQI), especially in Delhi NCR, has reached dangerously high levels due to dense smog. Serious health problems are being brought on by rising air pollution, particularly for people with pre-existing diseases. The situation is still concerning in spite of actions like the adoption of GRAP-4. Smog affects the environment and your general health in addition to damaging your lungs. Your diet is also very important. Avoiding certain foods is crucial to managing the impacts of pollution since they can exacerbate its effects. What foods should you stay away from during current smog season, and how much can air pollution damage your lungs? Let’s find out.
How Rising Air Pollution Harms Your Lungs
Pollutants like PM2.5 and PM10, which may enter your bloodstream and injure your lungs over time, are released when you breathe in smog. The respiratory system is irritated by polluted air, which frequently results in diseases like bronchitis. Over time, it may also diminish lung capacity, making breathing more difficult. Long-term exposure to air pollution poses a major risk to general health by raising the likelihood of chronic illnesses including lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Foods to Avoid to Tackle Smog’s Ill Effects
1. Deep-Fried Foods: Deep-fried snacks can worsen inflammation in the body. They are high in trans fats, which can reduce lung function and increase mucus production.
2. Sugary Drinks and Sweets: Excessive sugar weakens the immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off respiratory infections caused by pollution.
3. Processed Meats: Foods like sausages and bacon contain preservatives and nitrates that can irritate the respiratory system. These additives are known to trigger asthma and breathing problems.
4. Dairy Products: Milk, cheese, and butter can thicken mucus, making it harder to breathe. Avoid these if you already have breathing difficulties due to smog exposure.
5. Refined Carbohydrates: White bread, pasta, and other refined carbs spike blood sugar levels. High blood sugar leads to inflammation, which worsens lung-related issues.
How to Protect Your Lungs from Dense Smog
Invest in an air purifier to maintain clean indoor air and stay indoors during high AQI levels to protect your lungs from increasing pollution. When going outside, using N95 masks can greatly lower exposure to dangerous contaminants. Staying hydrated helps flush out pollutants from your body, while ingesting antioxidant-rich foods like oranges, spinach, and carrots can battle the effects of pollution. During these difficult times, you can maintain good lung health by eating a balanced diet and practicing preventative measures.
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