Breathe Easier This Summer Calgary: How to Protect Your Health During Forest Fires

Women in Calgary during wildfire smoke wearing mask.

At Marda Loop Wellness, our team of Naturopathic Doctors, Osteopathic Practitioners, Acupuncturists, and our Integrative Nurse Practitioner are here to help you and your family navigate wildfire smoke season with comprehensive, whole-person care.

Why Wildfire Smoke Is So Harmful

Wildfire smoke is much more than just burned wood. It includes:

  • PM2.5 and ultrafine particles that can lodge deep in the lungs and enter the bloodstream

  • Toxic chemicals like benzene, toluene, heavy metals, dioxins, and even plastics and pesticides

  • Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from burning buildings, vehicles, and chemicals

These microscopic particles can cross into the brain and other organs—impacting not just the lungs, but also the heart, nervous system, immune system, and more.

How Wildfire Smoke Impacts Your Health

Exposure to wildfire smoke can lead to:

  • Lung inflammation and airway irritation

  • Reduced antioxidant levels (especially in those with genetic sensitivities)

  • Increased blood pressure

  • Immune dysregulation and higher risk of illness

  • Worsening of asthma, allergies, and chronic conditions

  • Long-term risks like cardiovascular disease, neuroinflammation, and even cancer

Who’s Most at Risk From Wildfire Smoke?

  • Children and infants (developing lungs and faster breathing rates)

  • Older adults

  • People with asthma, COPD, cardiovascular disease, or Long COVID

Wildfire Smoke In mountains

Here’s How Our Integrative Medicine Team Can Help

At Marda Loop Wellness, we combine the best of conventional and natural medicine to support your health through wildfire season.

Naturopathic Medicine

Our Naturopathic Doctors offer personalized support with:

  • IV therapy: Glutathione, vitamin C, and other antioxidants

  • Botanicals: Mullein, licorice, elecampane for lung support

  • Detoxification support: NAC, quercetin, sulforaphane, and more

  • Nutrition guidance: Anti-inflammatory, lung-friendly diets

  • Genetic testing: Understand how your body detoxifies and responds to environmental toxins

Osteopathy

Osteopathic manual therapy can:

  • Enhance lung expansion and diaphragm movement

  • Improve lymphatic drainage

  • Regulate your nervous system during stress

Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicine

Acupuncture can help:

  • Support the lung meridian and respiratory function

  • Regulate inflammation and immune balance

  • Improve sleep and mental clarity during smoke exposure

Simple Steps to Reduce Wildfire Smoke Indoors

  • Use HEPA air purifiers with VOC filters (Austin Air, IQAir, AirDoctor)

  • Run HVAC systems on recirculate with MERV 13+ filters

  • Seal windows and doors using painter’s tape

  • Avoid indoor air pollution: no smoking, candles, or gas stoves.

  • Create a “clean air zone” in the bedroom for better sleep and overnight recovery

How Supplements Can Help You Breathe Easier During Wildfire Smoke Events

Certain nutrients help protect your lungs, heart, and immune system from the effects of wildfire smoke:

  • Vitamin C

  • Vitamin E

  • NAC (N-acetylcysteine)

  • Glutathione

  • Sulforaphane

  • Omega-3s (EPA/DHA)

  • Methylated B Vitamins

  • Quercetin, Curcumin, Resveratrol

Always consult your healthcare provider before starting new supplements, especially if you have existing health conditions or are on medication.

a fern sprouting from after wildfire

Take Control of Your Health

Wildfire smoke may be in the air, but integrative health support is close at hand. Book online or call us today to get a personalized plan that supports your body and protects your health.

Picture of Dr. Lindsay Irwin

Dr. Lindsay Irwin

Dr. Lindsay Irwin is a Naturopathic Doctor at Marda Loop Naturopathic and Wellness Clinic in Calgary, Alberta. 📅 Book Your Appointment With Dr. Lindsay 📞Call Us

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