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Breathe Easy Malta… One Breath at a Time

Lisa McConnell is a passionate Practitioner of Functional Medicine, practising in the Birgu Pharmacy. Lisa advocates cleaner air and thoughtful environmental choices as key to vigorous health.
Lisa asks: ‘Have you heard your neighbours complain about rising pollution from traffic, construction, and cruise liners?’ Parents often point to this, as the reason an increasing number of children rely on inhalers.

Lisa has lived in mega-cities with dangerous air pollution that looks like a thick, grey fog. While Sahara-sand days can be intense here, there’s little heavy industry, and strong winds often blow the air across the island. So, this pollution is not the sole problem.

She suspects indoor air quality (IAQ) is also an issue and has researched the safest local materials for a home refurbishment.

IAQ is linked to chronic conditions. Think about it. You can spend up to 90% of your time indoors. Poor IAQ can cause inflammation, hormonal imbalances, asthma and chronic fatigue.

Conventional paints, adhesives, tiles, and sealants release toxins called volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can trigger these issues.

Homeowners can improve indoor air quality by choosing products such as adhesives and grouts, with an EC rating, that indicates low emissions under EU standards. Some common household names from Italy have these ratings. For paints, select Zero-VOC or GreenGuard Gold-certified options. Lisa found them at House of Colour, Haz Zabbar.

Tiles made from natural materials (ceramic or porcelain), with water-based sealers are recommended. Always ask. You may create curiosity in the local showroom staff.

By integrating low-emission building choices into everyday environments, you and I, protect vulnerable individuals and lay a foundation for long-term health – one breath at a time.
Contact Lisa: E: hello@healthofhumankind.com
Facebook Messenger: Lisa Jane McConnell Health of Humankind