Natural ways to protect yourself from the ill effects of smog

Along with COVID-19, flu and other respiratory illnesses, the deteriorating air quality in the country, especially in the national capital, is contributing to the concerns of health officials and doctors.

Now, when you leave your house, if you suddenly experience a pang in your throat or feel congested or have a blocked nose, it could be the smog, that's making it difficult to breathe and reducing visibility.

While some states and cities have banned the burning of crackers, there could be many contributing factors ranging from stubble burning to carbon emission by vehicles to burning of garbage waste, that could lead to smog and extremely poor air quality.

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As per the Ministry of Earth Sciences forecast, Delhi's air quality is likely to "significantly"drop on November 5 and 6. With PM2.5 being the predominant pollutant, the air quality may reach the upper end of the "very poor" category.

In an interview with IANS, System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR) founder and project director Gufran said, "From November 4 onwards, the wind direction will change from the present easterly to north-westerly which are highly favourable to the intrusion of stubble burning."

"Even if 50 per cent of the firecrackers burst in 2020 happen to be lit this Diwali, then the air quality will deteriorate to 'severe', and without crackers, the air quality will settle at upper end of 'very poor' on November 5 and 6," he added.

As winter approaches, with Diwali at our doorstep and stubble burning taking place in parts of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab, many are concerned, looking for ways to get through this.

The term 'smog' comes from the words smoke and fog. It is an outcome of burning coal, which can occur due to transportation emission, which may severely harm your respiratory system. That said, with the smog season here, it is best to stay indoors. If you're someone who is into outdoor activities, goes for usual walks and strolls in the park, it's currently not the right time or safe to do the same.

You can always indulge in at-home exercises, maybe shop online. Make sure, your children stay home too, since their lungs are more delicate than yours.

Apart from that, there are many natural ways to protect yourself from the implications of smog. Read on to find out.

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There are many benefits of tulsi and ginger. However, both these ingredients work wonders for your respiratory health. The combination of the two in the form of tea can help you prevent the impact of smog on your health and your lungs. It improves immunity, fights cold and cough and has a refreshing effect.

To prepare the same, you can take 5-6 tulsi leaves and boil them in water along with some dried ginger. Once it's brewed and ready, sip on it to reap all it's health benefits.

If you want to boost your immune system, improve respiratory health and manage overall well being, then a glass of turmeric should definitely be your go-to drink. Boil a glass of milk in a container and add a teaspoon of turmeric powder. Prepare and drink regularly to help your body combat the ill effects of smog.

Jaggery, also known as 'gur' in Hindi, has many health benefits. From improving immune functions to aiding in weight loss, it helps manage overall health. Apart from that, when it comes to fighting the negative impact of smog and bad air quality, jaggery can help with that as well. It is a natural detox, full of nutrients and can also be incorporated with different foods and drinks.

At such a time, when your respiratory health is in such danger, it is important to have healthy foods. Therefore, while cooking make use of olive oil as it is known to boost immunity and may help with disease prevention.

Ensuring a proper diet is key during such times. While outdoor exercises should be limited, food is what builds your immune system and takes care of your overall health. That said, eat a diet that's rich in vitamin C and omega-3 fatty acids. Cut back on unhealthy carbs, processed foods and sugary drinks.

Only in case of emergency should you step outside your homes. However, when you do so, wear your masks. If need be, double mask. The combination of smoke and fog can have a deadly impact on your lung health, which is why prevention is better than cure. Those with pre-existing conditions like asthma should avoid stepping out.