SOUTH BEND, Ind. (WNDU) – Wednesday is Earth Day, a time to show support for mother earth.
Ecologists said there is a lot of stuff we can do to save the planet and our health.
In a Health Minute, Mandy Gaither runs down some healthy habits.
It’s the only home we have but caring for the earth and your health are two things you can do at once.
“Earth Day is a great reminder that what’s good for our health is often good for the planet, too,” said Dr. Wynne Armand for Mass General Brigham Center for the environment and health.
Dr. Armand with Mass General Brigham said small changes can make a big difference.
The first way to do that is to move more instead of using a car, walk or bike to where you’re heading.
“This helps boost both physical and mental health, but it also cuts down air pollution and greenhouse gasses,” said Dr. Armand.
Dr. Armand said to eat a plant-forward diet focused on foods like vegetables, beans, legumes, and whole grains. They can lower risk of heart disease, diabetes and the environmental footprint of our food.
Next reuse more with simple swaps, a refillable water bottle or reusable food container cuts down on plastic waste.
“This is better for our bodies and the environment since most plastics are not recyclable and don’t break down, and all this plastic ends up everywhere our food, water, soil, and even inside us,” said Dr. Armand.
Dr. Armand says to be aware of fossil fuel emissions from things like idling cars or gas-powered equipment.
The air pollutants aren’t only bad for the environment but can also cause many diseases. He said to take time to enjoy the outdoors.
“I’d say spend more time in nature and help create more of it because there’s actually good evidence that being in green spaces improves both mental well-being and physical health,” said Dr. Armand.
Dr. Armand said it’s also important to share this message while you may know ways to protect the earth and your health.
She said others may not and sharing good information may help them to make changes.
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