Experts Say Daily Park Walks May Ease Chronic Inflammation
Hikers have long been aware that breathing in fresh countryside air has a positive effect on well-being. Experts now suggest that physicians consider recommending a daily stroll in the park as a remedy for chronic inflammation.
Following an examination of 1,244 Americans ranging in age from 34 to 84 years old, researchers at New York’s Cornell University determined that “a greater occurrence of favorable natural encounters correlated with reduced levels of systemic inflammation.”
It is often said that the influence extends further than the advantages associated with physical activity.
precisely how exposure to nature exerts its effects remains uncertain.
A hypothesis suggests that microorganisms emitted by plants and soil interact with bacteria present in the human gut, potentially shielding against inflammation associated with numerous chronic conditions such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases.
Another point is that being close to nature decreases stress, which is a cause of inflammation.
In a commentary released with the study, psychologists from Ohio State University stated: “As research advances, it may turn out that granting access to public parks and natural spaces could be just as crucial as giving access to hospitals and medical facilities.”
At an individual level, maybe physicians ought to recommend taking a daily stroll in the park as an initial approach for treating inflammation instead of prescribing medication right away, since these can be costly and come with numerous side effects.
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