#HealthBytes: 6 tips to stay safe from Diwali pollution
What's the story
Today it's Diwali, and one sees excitement and smiles all around. The much-awaited festival brings with it- love, joy, and prosperity. However, each year, during the festive season, pollution levels soar to dangerously high levels, because of the cracker-bursting on Diwali. Here are 6 general tips to help you stay safe from Diwali pollution.
Indoors, Exercise
Try staying indoors; Avoid strenuous activity
Stay indoors: With such poor quality air, it is advisable to avoid heading out, if it is not inevitable. Work from home, if you must, and let kids take a break from school, for the sake of good heath. Activity/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.
Masks, Purifiers
Use pollution masks; Install at-home air purifiers
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- these can catch only 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. But, compare their specifications before you buy.
Diet, Hydration
Take an immunity-boosting diet; Stay hydrated
Diet: Consume food-items rich in Vitamin C, magnesium, omega fatty acids, as these will help give a boost to your immunity, and therefore help you fight the ill-effects of pollution. Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial, as sufficient water will help kick out excessive toxins from the body. One can also opt for herbal teas like ginger tea or tulsi tea.