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Urban vs. Suburban Living: Which is Healthier?
The place you call home affects
your health. So I’ll compare some recent findings on the health of people
living in cities versus suburban areas.
According to one study, people who live in suburbia are more likely to
report chronic health problems such as high blood pressure and arthritis
than those living in urban locations. Dependence on cars may be responsible
since studies suggest suburban sprawl decreases time spent walking and
increases time in the car. Other research suggests city dwellers are more
likely to do “utilitarian walking” for everyday activities like commuting or
errands. An extra ten minutes a day of walking can shed a couple pounds per
year.
It has been linked suburban car dependence with a greater risk of obesity.
It has been concluded that for every additional hour a day spent in a car,
there’s a 6 percent increase in the chance of being obese and for each
additional kilometer (about .6 miles) walked a day, there’s a 5 percent
reduction. Yet, Toronto scientists recently questioned whether suburban
sprawl increases obesity. They suggest that heavier people are predisposed
to live in more sprawling areas because they prefer driving.
There are numerous way you can do to curb our reliance on cars by creating
activity friendly communities. Suggestions include more sidewalks and bike
lanes, better mass transit, plus intermingling residential and commercial
buildings so people can walk to the store or movies.
As for city dwellers, they might have to put up with noise, poor air
quality, and a more hectic pace.
Tips for Suburbanites: Suburbanites often value natural areas, and
might enjoy walking along trails and leafy banks to connect with the natural
world. This also gets people out of their cars and meeting with each other.
If your neighborhood lacks sidewalks or a park, consider mall walking, which
offers even surfaces and a controlled climate. Avoid fast food restaurants
you pass during your commute.
Tips for Urbanites: Reconnect with nature by visiting parks and green
spaces regularly or bringing flowers indoors. A HEPA air filter and white
noise generator can help with air and noise pollution. Take advantage of
convenient access to organic supermarkets, yoga or meditation classes, and
alternative practitioners. I recommend walking or biking to do your errands.
He also suggests establishing routines to get outside, such as purchasing
fresh foods daily.