We all know that car exhaust, and other pollution is bad for your heart and lungs. But, did you know that pollution may also hasten the development of diabetes?
Pollution and Diabetes
A 2016 study published in Diabetes by doctors at the German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD) and Helmholtz Zentrum München shows just that.
How did they find out?
Well, they gave exams to 3,000 people living in the city of Augsburg, Germany and nearby areas. Fasting blood samples were taken and checked for inflammation and insulin resistance. The participants were also given a glucose tolerance test to check for impaired metabolism.
What the Researchers Found Was Astounding!
All of the data was compared with nitrogen dioxide levels at 40 sites and the amount of particulate matter in the air at 20 local sites.
People living in areas with higher rates of air pollution showed more inflammatory markers in their blood and displayed insulin insensitivity. The effect was strongest among those with prediabetes. However, it appeared to have a weaker connection to those who had already developed the disease.
So, people who have an impaired metabolism are more vulnerable to air pollution up to the point of developing diabetes. Over the long-term, air pollution is a potential factor in getting type 2 diabetes.
How To Combat the Problem?
Lower air pollution through more stringent regulations can cut down the risk. For example, 
limiting how many particulates and certain chemicals can be released by vehicles and manufacturing facilities is one solution. Moving to a more rural area with less traffic and pollution is another option, but it’s a difficult task for many people.
Past research has also shown that plants can help reduce certain types of pollution. It even cuts down on nitrogen dioxide (NO2) produced by vehicles. Greenery around your yard and in your home may help reduce NO2 by as much as 40%. It may also decrease fine particulate matter by up to 60%. Don’t forget to keep plenty of house plants around!
[expand title=”References“]
Air Pollution a Risk Factor for Diabetes, Say Researchers. URL Link. Access July 5, 2017.
Green Plants Reduce Pollution On City Streets Up To Eight Times More Than Previously Believed. URL Link. Access July 5, 2017.
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