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Fitness Topics
(As appeared in the Spring, 2005 issue of Healthwise magazine.)
We all know the formula for health: eat well, exercise regularly, get sufficient rest, and drink plenty of water.
One essential element of health many people tend to overlook, however, is the safety of the environment they live in. After all, what goes on within the body is directly affected by what's happening on the outside. By paying close attention to the health of your home, you will be better equipped to prevent a compromised immune system or disorders like asthma and lead poisoning. Two of the most significant variables to be aware of when maintaining a healthy home are lead and volatile organic compounds.
Keep Your Home Lead-Free
A highly toxic metal, lead is an environmental pollutant responsible for producing a wide range of health problems. Lead was included in an endless array of products before it was known to be harmful (house paints, home furnishings, drinking water). It can also be found in soil, air, dust, and food). Paint is the most common source of lead exposure in the home. Dangerous exposure can result from the improper removal of lead-based paint through the use of sanding, scraping or open-flame burning.
Even low levels of lead can lead to negative affects on kidneys, blood cells and the central nervous system. It takes as little as 10 micrograms per deciliter of blood for lead to interfere with physical and mental development. High levels (80 micrograms per deciliter or more) can cause convulsions and coma--even death.
To minimize the danger, be sure doors and windows do not bind; this will help prevent paint from chipping. Make all floor surfaces smooth and clear (cleanable). If lead-based paint is in good condition, leave it undisturbed. If not, hire professionals for removal. Eat a balanced diet rich in iron and calcium to bolster your immune system.
Minimize Volatile Organic Compounds
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are sources of indoor air pollution. They are widely used as ingredients in household products such as paints, waxes, varnishes, and aerosol sprays; cleaning, disinfecting, and deodorizing products; cosmetics and perfumes; talcum powder; dry-cleaned clothing; and hobby and automotive products. VOCs released from these products while they're being used or while in storage can cause throat, eye, and nose irritation as well as headaches, nausea and loss of coordination. Long-term exposure can damage the liver, kidney, and central nervous system.
Use non-toxic household cleansers, latex-based paint and non-toxic furniture, stains, sealants, and adhesives. These products have zero or low VOCs. VOCs are another reason for avoiding the use of carpets — some of which emit high VOC levels. Wood, vinyl and ceramic floor materials are better alternatives.
Provide an abundance of fresh air when using any of the aforementioned products. Never mix household care products; discard unused or partially used containers and purchase in small quantities. Keep all VOCs out of reach of children and pets.
Additional Tips
Use metal Venetian blinds instead of wood or cloth. They collect less dust, are easier to clean, and emit less gaseous fumes. To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, always keep gas appliances functioning properly. Install exhaust fans that vent from gas stoves to the outside. Hire a trained professional every year to inspect and clean your central heating system (including furnaces, chimneys and flues) and avoid idling cars inside your garage. For added safety, install carbon monoxide monitors/alarms in your home.
There has been a steady increase in the incidences of illnesses and deaths — plus damage to homes — resulting from indoor air pollution. Protect yourself and your family by taking these few basic precautionary steps. The results will be a safer, longer, healthier life.
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