Going green doesn’t just benefit the planet, it can also make a positive impact on your health. Read on to learn about the health benefits of going green.
We all know that buying whole foods, reducing energy consumption, changing transportation methods and choosing non-toxic household products are beneficial to the environment. However, these green lifestyle changes can also be good for your health.
Buying local, whole food
By choosing organically grown local foods, you can avoid pesticides and toxic compounds that cause illnesses and other health issues. Organic produce is also high in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. By choosing wild-caught and free-range fish and meat, you can avoid foods that are injected with hormones and other chemicals. Cutting back on red meat consumption and avoiding processed foods can reduce your intake of fat, sodium and sugar — which can cause obesity, heart disease, diabetes, cancer and other chronic health conditions.
Reducing energy consumption
Finding energy alternatives to fossil fuels and reducing your overall energy consumption can help reduce pollution, which in turn can deliver some health benefits. A reduction in air pollution can help you breathe easier — cutting down on allergies, asthma and other breathing problems. Increasing natural sunlight in your home and workplace saves energy and a whole lot more. Using natural light rather than relying entirely on artificial light can be beneficial to your health too. Sunlight helps calcium absorption, improves your mood and increases concentration.
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Changing your transportation methods
We all know how driving less can help the environment, and it can benefit your health too. Walking and biking is great exercise, leading to weight loss and improved heart health. Being outdoors allows you to enjoy nature, which benefits your emotional and mental health. If you live too far from work to walk or bike, take public transportation. You’ll avoid road rage and can be more productive by getting things done like answering email or making phone calls during your commute.
Avoiding toxic household products
Clean your house with non-toxic or homemade cleaners. The chemicals in traditional cleaners can cause breathing issues and headaches, or exacerbate existing health problems. In addition to household cleaners, you should also avoid toxic fertilizers and insecticides, which can impact your health and the health of your children. When painting your home, remember that standard paints emit toxic volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can be harmful to your family’s health. Buy low- or no-VOC paint instead.
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More about going green
Slowly going green: Raising green kids
Give your home a green makeover
How to save money buying sustainable foods
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