How much are you concerned about climate change? We ask because The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report was released recently, and it’s clear that action is needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions drastically.
Global heating is having a catastrophic effect on our planet; for every fraction of a degree that the temperature increases, this creates a hotter world. Overall, this has a massive impact not only on the earth – but also on our health.
Heat-related deaths are set to treble by 2050. At the same time, over 7 million people die prematurely each year from air pollution. The rise in air pollution is linked to chronic disease, and evidence suggests it is increasing cancer rates too.
Climate change may feel out of our control; overall, it’s up to the oil companies, airlines and carmakers who significantly contribute to this cause to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.
However, as individuals, we can also make more eco-friendly choices. Along with cycling or walking to work, it’s worth looking at our individual contributions and how they impact the environment.
For example, we may reuse items or recycle, donate goods, and upcycle furniture. Regarding household waste, we may choose to compost, use refill options, use metal straws instead of plastic, etc. We may only support companies with an eco-friendly and sustainable ethos. All these individual choices can make a difference to the collective.
But did you know there are ways to support our health against environmental stressors? Taking specific nutrients ensures we take good care of ourselves – no matter what the future holds.
One of the most powerful ways to take care of your good health, for example, is with antioxidants.
Antioxidants in Action
Antioxidants are essential in neutralising free radicals – compounds that can cause harm if their levels are too high in your body. When free radicals accumulate, they can promote a state known as oxidative stress – which has been linked to many chronic diseases. [1]
While your body has its own antioxidant defences, boosting your intake of antioxidants can be a fantastic way to ensure you’re creating a foundation of good health.
Some of the best antioxidant recommendations include:
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant with many powerful health benefits that can strengthen your body’s natural defences. [2]
This includes everything from immunity support to clearing colds and flu and supporting cartilage, skin and blood vessels. Vitamin C also plays a role in wound healing support.
Studies show that Vitamin C can increase your blood antioxidant levels by up to 30%. This helps the body’s natural defences to fight inflammation. [3]
Quercetin
As a powerful flavonoid, Quercetin is known for its antioxidant activity and its radical scavenging and anti-allergic properties. It provides a wide range of health benefits.
Some of Quercetin’s main benefits include its ability to reduce inflammation, ease allergy symptoms, and support brain health. [4,5]
This antioxidant can support cardiovascular health and blood sugar levels, even providing anti-ageing benefits. Quercetin has also been observed to support cell health. [6,7,8,9]
Vitamin E
Being a fat-soluble vitamin, Vitamin E consists of tocopherols and tocotrienols that target free radicals and inflammation anywhere in the body.
Vitamin E is renowned for its moisturising and healing benefits. Fighting free radicals and promoting cellular restoration can help protect against sun damage and support scars and burns. [10]
Vitamin E is fantastic for the skin thanks to its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
Vitamin E is also known for its other benefits, including supporting healthy heart function, eyesight, blood sugar levels and promoting strong bones. [11,12]
Curcumin
Recognised as one of nature’s most effective anti-inflammatory agents, Curcumin has been used for centuries for many health conditions.
A substantial body of evidence suggests that Curcumin can help reduce various inflammatory conditions, from reducing post-exercise inflammation, helping to manage arthritis, lowering the risk of heart disease, providing pain relief and even immune system support. You can read more about the benefits of Curcumin here.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Foods high in Omega-3 fatty acids or “healthy fats” have been shown in research to help support heart, brain and eye health, amongst other benefits.
Krill Oil, in particular, is recommended for its antioxidant properties. As a super rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids, scientists have tested Krill and proven it to be 8x more potent than traditional fish oil.
Recent studies have also highlighted how Krill Oil is recommended to help relieve joint and knee pain.
Lutein and Zeaxanthin
As natural carotenoids and powerful antioxidants, Lutein and Zeaxanthin have many excellent benefits that can protect your eyes from harmful free radicals. This makes them beneficial for eye health.
Additionally, these carotenoids’ antioxidant properties may help reduce the effects of “bad” LDL cholesterol. This may decrease plaque build-up in your arteries and even lower your heart disease risk.
5 Easy Lifestyle Tips To Stay Healthy In Any Climate
1. Eat Healthy Foods – Choose organic produce where possible to ensure maximum nutrition. Include plenty of green leafy vegetables, dark-skinned fruits, nuts, seeds and berries. We recommend oily fish such as wild salmon or mackerel as a healthy source of protein. If you need inspiration, you can find recipes at: www.reallyhealthyfoods.com
2. Stay Hydrated – Drinking plenty of water is essential for best health. We recommend drinking at least 6-8 glasses of pure water with a pinch of bicarbonate of soda to help alkalise the body.
3. Stay Active – Regular exercise and activity are essential to avoid staying sedentary and keep your body moving. Exercise improves blood circulation and keeps your stress levels low. It also improves oxygenation and immunity, helping to keep allergies and infections at bay.
Moving your body keeps your joints supple and strong, reducing the chances of muscle and joint problems that may occur with climate change. Simple ways to exercise include walking, cycling, swimming or jogging.
4. Sleep Well – Ensuring you get enough rest can help fight illnesses. Along with reducing fatigue and feeling unwell, getting enough sleep is required for overall mind and body health.
5. Go For A Walk Near The Sea – Along with helping to lower stress, boost your general mood and move your body, walking near the sea has other health benefits too.
Sea air is a good source of iodine and other healthy minerals such as magnesium and potassium. Being near sea air also encourages respiratory health and may help reduce asthma symptoms, improve allergies and skin problems and even help to stimulate the immune system.
References:
[1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23675073/
[2] https://journals.humankinetics.com/view/journals/ijsnem/7/1/article-p1.xml
[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12805247/
[4] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27710596/
[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3736941/
[6] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26106459/
[7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2736626/
[8] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20548131/
[9] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28677813/
[10] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8023094/
[11] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15006283/
[12] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10867030/
While the toll on human health is thought to worsen due to increasing greenhouse gas emissions and the impact of climate change – the good news is that the future lies with us – and it’s up to us to take these recommendations on board as part of a healthy lifestyle.
The above solutions show that we can take measures to protect our health, thanks to the proper nutrients. Supported by studies, these nutrients are safe and effective ways for you to achieve optimal health, no matter the climate.
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Delivers a complete spectrum of eye nutrients, including the carotenoids Lutein and Zeaxanthin. It is recommended for optimal eye health support. Suitable for vegetarians and vegans. 120ml.
Curcuminx4000® Original
Provides Meriva® Curcumin for enhanced absorption benefits and optimal health support. A recent study showed an increase in utilisation by up to 30x compared to ordinary Curcumin. Suitable for vegetarians and vegans. 180 vegetable capsules.
The Krill Miracle™
Ultra-pure omega fatty acids promote wellness and longevity. It contains high-strength DHA/EPA, supporting anti-inflammatory processes, including eye health. 60 Fish Licaps™ capsules.
PureC+™ Liposomal Vitamin C and Quercetin
High-quality Liposomal Vitamin C provides 1000mg Liposomal Vitamin C plus 175mg Quercetin, plus 1000mg P.C. per serving. It supports the immune system and is a natural antihistamine that may provide natural relief from hay fever. Suitable for vegetarians and vegans. 180ml/6 fl. oz.
Vitamin E Tocotrienols
Provides 100% natural tocotrienols and tocopherols for potent antioxidant support. It may help to scavenge highly reactive free radicals and support optimal health. Suitable for vegetarians and vegans. 60 vegetable capsules.
