Easy Tips for Moms to Combat Air Pollution

As moms, we want to keep our families healthy, but with increasing air pollution, it’s becoming harder to protect something as essential as our lungs. Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) recently highlighted some simple daily practices to help our lungs stay strong, especially as air quality continues to impact our health.

Why Lung Health Matters

Our lungs work hard, helping us take in about 23,000 breaths each day. Unfortunately, air pollution is rising in the Philippines, contributing to respiratory issues for many families. The Manila Observatory reports that 100 out of every 100,000 Filipinos lose their lives yearly due to air pollution. Dr. Gregorio P. Ocampo, a pulmonary medicine expert at MakatiMed, emphasizes that daily exposure to air pollution, like emissions from vehicles and factories, increases our risk of respiratory inflammation, infections, and diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer.

How to Improve Indoor Air Quality

Creating a cleaner indoor environment can make a big difference. Here are some quick changes you can try at home:

• Ban indoor smoking to protect everyone from harmful secondhand smoke.
• Invest in HEPA air purifiers to filter out airborne particles, like dust and allergens.
• Dust and change air filters regularly to keep indoor air as fresh as possible.
• Groom pets regularly to reduce dander.
• Add air-purifying plants, like snake plants or spider plants, which can help remove toxins from the air.

Diet Changes for Healthier Lungs

A nutritious diet is essential for strong lungs. Dr. Ocampo suggests avoiding high-sodium and high-fat foods, which can strain our respiratory system. Instead, try including these “lung-loving” foods:

• Apples and tomatoes: These are high in antioxidants, which help combat inflammation.
• Beets, pumpkins, and leafy greens: Their nutrients support lung function and oxygen intake.
• Cut back on processed meats, fried foods, and salty snacks like chicharon, which can put extra strain on your lungs.

Boosting Lung Health with Exercise

Exercise is another way to support your lungs and overall health. Activities like walking, running, and swimming increase oxygen delivery to your body, and practices like yoga and Pilates focus on breathing and lung capacity. “These activities engage core muscles and improve posture, which supports better breathing,” explains Dr. Ocampo. Even simple deep breathing exercises can help strengthen your lungs and improve oxygen intake.

Stay Protected with Vaccines and Checkups

Keeping up with flu and pneumonia vaccines is key, especially for kids, older family members, or anyone with a weakened immune system. Regular health checkups are also essential. Dr. Ocampo suggests that those at higher risk—such as smokers, drivers, and people exposed to construction dust—consider annual X-ray exams and spirometry tests to detect any issues early on.

As Dr. Ocampo says, “Every breath you take matters. With growing air pollution risks, prioritize lung wellness in your daily life.” Taking even a few of these small steps can make a big difference in your family’s health and peace of mind.

Momi Berlin Directory

MakatiMed On-Call at +632.8888.8999 | Website | Facebook