#HealthBytes: Tips to stay safe from the winter smog
As if the hazardous Air quality wasn't enough, the winter season makes life even worse for urban Indians, due to the formation of smog, a thick layer of harmful pollutants that engulfs the air. The mixing of winter fog and the polluted smoke is the reason behind this. Here are general tips you may follow to stay safe from the winter smog.
Try staying indoors; Avoid strenuous activity
Stay indoors: When smog envelops the air, it is advisable to avoid heading out, if it's not inevitable. Work from home, if you must, and let kids take a break from school, for the sake of good heath. Avoid Exercise: Avoid strenuous activity and exercise, and more so, when outdoors. Quit morning walks and jogging for the time being, in order to stay safe.
Use pollution masks; Install air-purifier at home
Masks: Whenever you head out, always use a disposable respiratory mask. This will cut down the amount of harmful particles you take in. However, the masks aren't foolproof- they can only catch larger particles, and not the fine PM 2.5 ones, that are also quite harmful. Air purifiers: Install good-quality air-purifiers at your home to stay safe from harmful effects of smog, when indoors.
Mind your diet; Stay hydrated
Diet: Consume food-items rich in Vitamin C, magnesium, omega fatty acids, as they help give a boost to your immunity, and therefore help you fight the ill-effects of smog. Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial, as sufficient water will help kick out excessive toxins from the body. One can also opt for herbal tea brews like ginger tea or tulsi tea.