Living near the nature or getting regular exposure to greenery may reduce the risk of a host of illnesses including Type-2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, preterm birth and stress
We have all had instances where we have wanted to just leave all our
personal and professional commitments behind and leave for woods. Turns
out that sitting in the lap of nature can have various health benefits
too, if the findings of a latest study are to be believed. Living near
the nature or getting regular exposure to greenery may reduce the risk
of a host of illnesses including Type-2 diabetes, cardiovascular
diseases, high blood pressure, preterm birth and stress -- and boost
overall health suggested a new study published in the journal Environmental Research.
"We often reach for medication when we're unwell but exposure to
health-promoting environments is increasingly recognized as both
preventing and helping treat disease. Our study shows that the size of
these benefits can be enough to have a meaningful clinical impact," said
Andy Jones from Britain's University of East Anglia (UEA).
Living in close vicinity of trees is said to increase one's exposure to
Phytoncides, which are organic compounds with antibacterial properties,
released by trees. These compounds are said to have health boosting
properties.
People living near greenery likely have more opportunities for physical
activity and socializing. Meanwhile, exposure to a diverse variety of
bacteria present in natural areas may also have benefits for the immune
system and reduce inflammation," said lead author, Caoimhe
Twohig-Bennett from UEA's Norwich Medical School.
For the study, the team studied data from over 140 studies involving
more than 290 million people from 20 countries including the UK, the US,
Spain, France, Germany, Australia and Japan.