How To Improve Your Health And Help The Environment At The Same Time

Protecting your health and the environment are both important endeavors. Improve your health and help the environment at the same time when you implement the following meaningful changes. 

Clean Smarter

Cleaning products can contain harmful chemicals that contaminate your body and the air. Natural products like white vinegar, baking soda and lemon juice are eco-friendly alternatives. Use washable cloth rags instead of disposable wipes, too.  

Improve Indoor Air Quality

Allergens, dust mites and other pollutants can contaminate indoor air and cause breathing and sleeping problems. Use eco-friendly products to clean and disinfect your home. Also, open the windows every day and grow indoor plants. You could service the HVAC system, seal air leaks and insulate your home properly to reduce energy use and protect your health. 

Buy Local Produce

Nourish your body with healthy fruits and vegetables grown locally. As you support your health and the local economy, you help to eliminate high greenhouse gas emissions from cross-country shipping.

Eat Vegan

A plant-based diet can lower your risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes and reduce your carbon footprint. Try adding a vegan meal or two to your weekly menu as you shift your diet.

Stay Hydrated 

Your body needs water to function. Staying hydrated also supports your brain function, mood and energy level. However, disposable water bottles use valuable resources and take years to decompose. Carry a reusable water bottle, stainless steel canteen or thermos to prevent waste and improve your health. 

Take a Bath

Conserve water and lower stress when you take baths instead of showers. A single shower requires 12 gallons of water versus a nine-gallon bath. And since stress causes a variety of health conditions, you will care for your health as you soak. 

Wear Natural Fibers

Certain fabrics contain perfluorinated chemicals or PFCs that are toxic to your body and the environment. Even cotton growth requires pesticides. Consider switching to hemp, wool or silk instead. And shop at secondhand stores to further preserve the environment.

Nurture a Garden

Grow fresh vegetables and herbs plus colorful flowers in your garden. Whether you have a large backyard or containers on your deck or kitchen windowsill, plants clean the air. Playing in the dirt is also good exercise, and looking at nature also diminishes stress, which can safeguard your health. 

Park the Car

Vehicle emissions affect local air quality and the ozone layer. Instead of driving, walk or bike to work, school and the store. Exercise improves your physical health and mood. However, if you must drive, combine errands, carpool and park at the far end of the lot when possible. 

Plant a Tree

Trees offer numerous health and environmental benefits. Spending time around trees also helps you relax. Trees also create oxygen and reduce carbon dioxide. And the shade they provide around your home means you can run the air conditioner less. So plant a tree or two in your yard. 

Implement one or more of these tips to improve your health and help the environment at the same time.