Breathing is not a conscious act so many people don’t pay attention to the fact that they breathe as they work, play and sleep and tend to take it for granted. But we breathe nearly 25,000 times a day, which means we inhale more than 10,000 liters of air every 24 hours.
We not only inhale oxygen and nitrogen but there are small amounts of other gases, floating bacteria, and viruses that we breathe in daily as well. Not to mention tobacco smoke, car exhaust, and countless other pollutants from the atmosphere.
To avoid lung damaging agents, here are a few simple things you can do:
- Fill the house with plants. Indoor plants purify the air, removing toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, and xylene. Spider plants and aloe vera plants are good indoor choices.
- Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to reduce lead, chemical build-up, and allergens such as pet dander in the home. Follow this step by mopping with a microfiber mop to soak up any leftover particles.
- Beware of scented cleaning products, laundry detergents, and air fresheners, all of which can damage the lungs. Choose fragrance-free products whenever possible.
- Make sure your home has a radon detector. Radon—a colorless, odorless gas—is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the United States.
Follow these tips to maximize your lung health today!