the motivation, but have spare funds, consider hiring a cleaning service.
Physically Inactivate Lifestyle
A lifetime of low physical activity levels is a risk factor for lung disease. If you’re spending most of your days sitting in front of a tv or at a desk for work, it’s important to adopt a regular exercise plan. Exercise has an anti-inflammatory effect and is associated with reduced upper respiratory infections.
A regular exercise schedule will help improve your overall health, but it’s not the only way to boost your physical activity levels. Subtle lifestyle changes such as skipping the elevator, standing desks at work, and parking farther away from the store can make a significant impact in raising your daily movement. Another simple yet fun way to get moving is to consider starting an active hobby, such as gardening, photography, and hiking.
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Not drinking enough water
Constant dehydration can impair your airway functions, making it harder to breathe and increasing your risk for chronic bronchitis. If you work out regularly, you should be especially mindful of your water intake because working out while dehydrated can trigger exercise-induced bronchoconstriction. Ensure you’re drinking enough water throughout the day. This helps maintain lung functions, as well as the health of other organs in your body, including your kidney, heart, and skin.
Take calculated steps to stay hydrated, especially while working out. Drink a glass of water with each meal and eat fruits and vegetables high in water. Avoid substituting water with sugary and caffeinated drinks. If you prefer a sweeter taste to your water, opt for unsweetened sparkling water or add hints of lemons or cucumbers to refine the taste.
READ: The Link Between Certain Cancers, Diets & Exercise
Exercising during bad air quality days
Low-quality air days are when smog, pollen count, smoke, and other pollutants are concentrated in the air. Prolonged periods outside and working out outdoors on high-pollution days can contribute to the development of lung disease.
Use your phone’s weather app to check the Air Quality Index and identify days with high pollution counts. If you’re forgetful, consider setting up an alert notification. Avoid prolonged periods outdoors, working out during these days. Also, if you have children, it’s best to keep them indoors as the effects of air pollution can be particularly damaging on their lung development.