What is your air quality index (AQI) today? Research suggests that air pollution exposure may increase the risk for premature death.

Study Summary

A study found exposure to various outdoor air pollutants caused about 790,000 extra deaths in Europe in 2015 – and increased the risk of dying from heart and respiratory diseases. Researchers particularly focused on particulate matter, known as PM2.5 and ozone. Exposure to these pollutants reduced life expectancy by a couple of years for most European countries.

Researchers investigating the number of global premature deaths due to particulate matter (PM2.5), estimated that 10.2 million deaths each year are attributable to this fossil-fuel-related pollution.

The Hearty Take

At Hearty, we believe that the healthiest diet contains plenty of whole foods. An easy way to avoid artificial sweetener consumption is to eat minimally processed foods and avoid processed foods. Craving something sweet? Choose berries or dark chocolate instead. Remember, your diet is one of the most powerful ways to impact your long-term quality of life and health!