The 6 Best Ways to Protect Yourself from the Effects of Oregon Wildfires

With summer upon us in Oregon, a few clients have asked how to best prepare for the potential of living amidst smoky air for a few days. While it’s unfortunate to think about, it is wise to prepare for the potential of wildfires and the smoke they bring. People who have asthma and breathing problems need to be especially careful when the west coast fires hit. Here are some recommendations:

1. While obvious, it deserves mention. First, make sure you are filtering your inside air. You can use a HEPA filter with your HVAC system, a good air filter such as an Air Doctor or Austin Air, or some other quality system that gets that wildfire smoke out of your environment and away from your lungs.
2. Green tea contains many antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation in the lungs. These compounds may even protect lung tissue from the harmful effects of smoke inhalation. Ideally, consume green tea at least twice daily to realize the benefits.
3. Eat the rainbow! Whenever the body is under stress, it requires extra vitamins and minerals. Nutritious foods such as brightly colored fruits and vegetables will provide a mixture of antioxidants and flavonoids that may give additional lung protection.
4. Stay well hydrated! Your body is better able to detox when you are drinking plenty of water. The ideal amount is typically half of your body weight in pounds, in ounces. For example, if you weigh 160lbs. you should drink 80 oz. or 10 cups of water per day.
5. Use an N95 particulate mask when outside in the smoke and avoid unnecessarily exerting yourself outdoors. Heavy breathing means more smoke inhalation
6. Lastly, if you want to jump on the supplement wagon, the following could be beneficial:

• • Vitamin C: Smoke causes oxidative damage. A potent antioxidant is Vitamin C. You can increase your dose up to bowel tolerance (too much can cause loose stools).
  • Glutathione: Liposomal glutathione can detoxify acetaldehyde and other toxins found in smoke.
  • Vitamin D3: Supporting the immune system with vitamin D is especially important when dealing with smoke inhalation, especially for those diagnosed with a deficiency.
  • N-acetyl cysteine (NAC): NAC is a powerful mucolytic, breaking down and eliminating accumulated mucus from the lungs.

If you would like current Oregon Wildfire information check out the map in the link.

If you would like a great source for Physician Grade supplements, here is a link