Wildfire season has become an increasingly common part of life in many communities. While the smoke may seem like a temporary inconvenience, it can have significant effects on your health, especially during periods of prolonged exposure.

Why Is Wildfire Smoke Harmful?

Wildfire smoke is made up of tiny particles (PM2.5) and harmful gases released when forests, buildings, vehicles, and other materials burn. These microscopic particles are small enough to travel deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, contributing to inflammation throughout the body.

Health Effects of Smoke Exposure

Even short-term exposure can cause:

• Eye, nose, and throat irritation
• Coughing or wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Headaches and fatigue
• Worsening allergies or asthma

People with heart or lung disease, young children, older adults, and pregnant individuals are especially vulnerable.

Repeated or prolonged exposure may increase the risk of chronic respiratory and cardiovascular disease, weaken immune function, contribute to anxiety and stress, and worsen existing health conditions.

How to Protect Yourself

When air quality is poor:

• Stay indoors with windows and doors closed.
• Use a HEPA air purifier or a high-quality furnace filter if possible.
• Avoid strenuous outdoor exercise.
• Limit indoor pollutants by avoiding candles, wood-burning fireplaces, and excessive frying or vacuuming.
• Stay hydrated.
• Check your local Air Quality Health Index  before spending time outside.

Nutrition to Support Recovery

Although diet can’t eliminate smoke exposure, eating an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant-rich diet can help support your body’s natural defenses.

Aim for a Mediterranean-style eating pattern that includes:

• Colourful fruits and vegetables
• Leafy greens
• Garlic and onions
• Berries
• Legumes
• Nuts and seeds
• Whole grains
• Olive oil
• Fatty fish rich in omega-3 fats

Green tea is another excellent source of antioxidants.

Certain supplements including vitamin C, omega-3 fatty acids, N-acetylcysteine (NAC), quercetin, curcumin, and glutathione—may also be beneficial for some individuals.

How Garibaldi Health Clinic Can Help

If wildfire smoke leaves you feeling run down or worsens existing respiratory or inflammatory conditions, personalized care may help support your recovery.

At Garibaldi Health Clinic, Dr. Ashely Gordon, ND provides informed naturopathic care to support lung health, immune function, and overall wellness. Through individualized nutrition, lifestyle strategies, and targeted supplementation, she helps patients build resilience and recover from environmental stressors such as wildfire smoke.

Call to book your appointment today.

604-898-1999

inform@garibaldihealthclinic.com

Author Info

Ashely Gordon