We’ve always suspected that air pollution probably increases asthma symptoms, but a recent study has rather alarmingly confirmed that air pollution actually suppresses the immune system. The study found that: “air pollution exposure suppressed the immune system’s regulatory T cells (Treg), and that the decreased level of Treg function was linked to greater severity of asthma symptoms and lower lung capacity. Treg cells are responsible for putting the brakes on the immune system so that it doesn’t react to non-pathogenic substances in the body that are associated with allergy and asthma. When Treg function is low, the cells fail to block the inflammatory responses that are the hallmark of asthma symptoms.
So, with that in mind, it only makes sense to make sure that our indoor air quality is as clean as possible. Did you know that indoor air quality is typically 7-10 times worse than outdoor air quality? The causes are many but include: poor ventilation, toxic cleaning products, pesticides, synthetic air fresheners, off-gassing particleboard and vinyl – and the list goes on… I can’t stand the fact that modern-day living with its plethora of synthetic chemicals makes indoor living, in some cases, a hazard!
I’m always on the lookout for the best air purifiers and I’ve recently tested one that I really like. It’s called LightAir, and it’s unique in that it doesn’t employ an actual filter (no cleaning required.) It works by generating electrons – these negative ions pull practically all airborne particles out of the air. Most filters that use this “negative” ion technology are inefficient because they don’t produce enough negative ions – and if they did, the side effect would be an unhealthy amount of ozone. LightAir, however, doesn’t generate any ozone at all, so it’s completely safe.
When testing the model they sent me, I tried it out in my daughter’s room, which is probably the stuffiest room in the house, and after a couple of hours of running the filter, there was a marked difference in the smell of her room. Although I haven’t got the scientific apparatus to test the quality of the air, it felt cleaner.
The other great thing about his filter is that it is small, stylish, and doesn’t make any sound at all, which is great! Yep – this is a keeper, especially since no cleaning is required.
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