Working in Los Angeles county for most of my life, my heart is grieving with you during this devastating time. As I can’t offer much in physical support in this moment, I thought I can offer some healing ideas for those with high smoke and wind exposure in the area.

The particulate matter in the air and wind will be containing potentially harmful materials from the fires. Any plastics, synthetic materials, tires, pestides, asbestos and pressure treated wood that is burning will be releasing those chemicals and particulates into the air.

I say this not to scare, but to educate and empower us as California continues to fight the fires. Let’s stay healthy together and let me know if you have any questions or need medical attention.

Dr. Bridget Anderson

This will be the first area of our body impacted. Symptoms to watch for include:

• Wheezing
• Worsening Asthma
• Coughing
• Sore Throat
• Postnasal Drip
• Chest tightness or burning sensation

How we can support our lungs:

1. Wear N95 masks when outside.
2. Keep air recirculation off in our homes and workplaces.
3. Use HEPA filtration in your home to clean the air.
4. Use a Nasal Lavage such as NETI Pot or Neli Med daily to rinse particulate from your sinuses.
5. Use a Humidifier in your home to help mucus membranes.
6. Avoid other irritants – cigarette smoke, vaping, fragrances and perfumes.

Supplementation: 

1. Vitamin C – Increase your daily amount to improve your antioxidants.
2. NAC (N-Acetylcysteine) 600 mg with food daily to Break down mucus and help create Glutathione. Glutathione as an Injection, IV or oral liposomal supplement is our major detoxification agent which supports the lungs and liver. NAC combines with Vitamin C to boost natural production in our body.
3. Bromelain – Natural Enzyme found in Pineapple that breaks down mucus build up
4. Herbal Teas: Mullein, Peppermint, Marshmallow, Boswellia – Support mucus membranes.

Foods: 

1. Avoiding mucus creating foods such as dairy.
2. Increasing berries, dark leafy greens and peppers for high flavonoid and Vitamin C content.
3. Reducing Alcohol & Nonprescription drugs to lessen the toxin load on your liver.

HUGS Can HEAL 

Did you know that a 20 second hug can help Heal?

What does it do? 

Lowers cortisol (our stress hormone)
Increases Oxytocin (our love hormone)
Lowers heart rate and Blood Pressure

During this stressful time- find reasons to hug someone today.

(Don’t feel like touching? That’s ok! Hugging a pillow also triggered some positive health benefits!)