Air quality expert Michael Rubino joins the podcast to discuss the importance of detecting and removing mold in homes for better health. They highlight the risks of mold exposure, symptoms to watch out for, and tips for improving indoor air quality. The episode also touches on gut health benefits and government agencies' guidance on tackling indoor mold.
Addressing indoor air quality is crucial for health due to mold exposure risks.
Regular maintenance and use of efficient filters can help control indoor air pollutants like mold.
Deep dives
The Threat of Poor Indoor Air Quality
Indoor air quality poses a significant health risk as Americans spend almost 90% of their time indoors, where the air may be more polluted than outdoors. Mold is a major indoor pollutant that can cause immediate and long-term health issues, from triggering asthma attacks to serious infections. Even for healthy individuals, mold exposure can lead to eye, skin, nose, throat, and lung irritation, highlighting the importance of addressing indoor air quality and mold concerns.
Realizing the Impact of Mold on Health
Many individuals overlook mold issues in their homes due to a lack of visible signs or odors, leading to undiagnosed health problems. Cases of sick building syndrome and chronic health issues were linked back to mold exposure. A physician highlighted the significance of checking homes for mold as a crucial step in improving overall health, emphasizing the role of mold in exacerbating chronic conditions.
Insights from a Mold and Air Quality Expert
Mold and air quality expert Michael Rubino shed light on the health risks associated with poor indoor air quality. He emphasized the importance of managing water intrusion, maintaining proper humidity levels, and using high-quality filters in HVAC systems to reduce indoor pollutants. Rubino's insights into the impact of air quality on health outcomes, including cognitive function and sleep quality, underscored the need for proactive measures to address indoor air quality concerns.
Improving Indoor Air Quality
Recommendations for improving indoor air quality ranged from regular cleaning routines to installing air purifiers with efficient filters. Controlling dust accumulation, managing humidity levels, and opting for botanical-based cleaning products were suggested DIY strategies. Rubino also highlighted the significance of PCR technology in assessing mold levels in homes and empowering individuals to take proactive steps in monitoring and improving their indoor air quality.
Everyone knows the quality of the air we breathe directly affects our health.
As the summer rolls along and more people seek reprieve from the heat indoors, it’s important to be sure our indoor air is clean and toxin-free.
One pollutant to keep an eye out for is mold.
Mold inside a home could hurt your health both immediately and in the long term.
So to help us better understand how to spot mold in the home and how to get rid of it, we’re joined by air quality expert Michael Rubino, president of the Change the Air Foundation and the founder of HomeCleanse.