In a previous blog post, we discussed the health hazards of outdoor air pollution and how reducing exposure can reduce health risks. Evidence suggests indoor air quality should also be considered is on the rise, and studies point to the potential harm of gas stoves.

Like many people, if you have a gas stove, it helps to understand the health issues and take steps to protect your home.

Ventilate the kitchen while cooking

• Open the window while cooking.
• Use an exhaust fan to move the air outdoors. This contributes to outdoor pollution, but also reduces exposure to high concentrations of unhealthy air in confined spaces.

use an air purifier

Although they don’t remove all pollutants, air purifiers can improve indoor air quality. Choose an air purifier with a high Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) for the size of your room. The air purifier is easy to move, so keep it near the kitchen during the day and move it to the bedroom when you go to sleep. Remember to replace the filter when it becomes dirty.

switch cooking to appliances

• Cost, disruption, and environmental concerns may guide your choice. The production of new appliances consumes natural resources, and old appliances often end up in landfills. Here are some options to consider:
• Use an electric kettle instead of boiling water in the microwave.
• Cook in an electric slow cooker, pressure cooker, rice cooker, toaster oven, or microwave.
• Replace gas stove with electric stove. See the following tips for making this switch and recycling your home appliances. If you’re a Massachusetts resident, he may be eligible for a $500 rebate from Mass Save for swapping from gas to induction stoves this year. (Other states may offer similar incentives.)

This is an excerpt from an article published in Harvard Health Publishing website.

to read the full text

Wynne Armand is an Associate Physician at Massachusetts General Hospital, an Assistant Professor at Harvard Medical School, and Associate Director of the MGH Center for Environmental Health.