It is the month of Diwali celebrations and also that time of the year when farmers burn the paddy stubble to prepare their soil for the next crop. With all the cracker bursting during Diwali celebrations, the heavy traffic, and the paddy stubble burning adding significant amounts of smog to the air, the air pollution is going to be a notch higher than the usual during this month.
The harmful substances present in polluted air can be hazardous for your body and may lead to various health problems such as asthma, bronchitis, or even lung cancer.
Other mild symptoms that you may experience due to prolonged exposure to toxic air include nasal congestion, difficulty in breathing, cough, wheezing, eye irritation, etc.
But, did you know that by choosing the right kind of diet you can fight the ill effects of air pollution? Yes!
Food enriched with essential nutrients can help your body recover from the bouts of severe air pollution by cleaning your system, especially your airways.
Here are a few dietary tips that will help you combat the ill effects of pollution:
1. Citrus Fruits. These fruits are high in vitamin C which acts as a potent antioxidant for your body. They help neutralize the free radicals in the body produced by the pollutants. Your immunity is improved and vitamin C is also known to brighten your dull skin.
Therefore, make sure to include citrus fruits such as oranges, tangerines, lemons, amla, etc., in your diet. You can consume them raw or in the form of juices.
2. Nuts and Seeds. Nuts and seeds are rich in omega fatty acids and vitamin E. Omega fatty acids are crucial for your health and they can only be obtained from the food you eat as the body does not produce them.
They improve your overall health and reduce the risk of inflammation in the body which can contribute to various other diseases. Vitamin E helps boost your immunity and is also good for your eye and skin health.
Nuts such as cashews or almonds and edible seeds such as sunflower seeds, chia seeds or flax seeds can be added to shakes, salads and other snacks that you regularly consume.
3. Green Tea. It is packed with antioxidants and helps fight allergy symptoms such as nasal congestion, sore throat and cough.
It helps prevent oxidative damage in the body and improves your immunity. It is high in polyphenol, a natural compound that helps fight inflammation in the body.
4. Natural Herbs. Natural herbs such as ginger, turmeric, mint, coriander, celery, etc., help guard your body against the harmful effects of air pollutants. They have powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Therefore, including them in your daily diet can help prevent common allergies and infections. Besides, they also play a major role in repairing your body.
Drinking concoctions composed of natural herbs regularly is highly beneficial to alleviate health problems associated with various environmental hazards.
Along with these dietary tips, make sure that you exercise regularly and take the necessary measures to avoid the harmful effects of air pollution and stay healthy this festive season.
Disclaimer: This article is written by the Practitioner for informational and educational purposes only. The content presented on this page should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. Please "DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE" and seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Practo will not be responsible for any act or omission arising from the interpretation of the content present on this page.