Living closer to open fields and trees reduces your risk of being obese or depressed, research suggests. Harvard University researchers previously found those who live in an 'urban jungle' have a 12 per cent higher death rate than those with access to green spaces. Those in the greenest areas had a 34 per cent lower rate of respiratory disease-related mortality and a 13 per cent lower rate of cancer mortality. After reviewing hundreds of previous studies, scientists claim it can even slash the chance of an early death by 16 per cent. Robbie Blake, a campaigner for FoE, told The Guardian: 'The evidence is strong and growing that people and communities can only thrive when they have access to nature.
To reduce obesity and depression, we need more nature in our lives.
Nature is an overlooked antidote: People who live near green spaces are generally happier and report better physical and mental health. A new report from the Institute for European Environmental Policy examines the links between nature, equity, and well-being. And in Denmark, people living within 330 yards of green spaces were less likely to be obese and more likely to engage in rigorous exercise. But access to nature — and the benefits that ensue — aren't equally distributed across populations. For example, instituting building codes with standards for nature proximity, and creating health policies that account for the preventative benefits of the great outdoors.collected by :Lucy William
No comments:
Post a Comment