A prescription for better health

Studies are in, and they're showing that the environment has important impacts on human health.

The benefits of being outside are being demonstrated in a variety of studies from around the world. Click through these links to check out peer-reviewed studies that make the case for outdoor time as being part of your community's health regimen:

• Reduced instances of obesity & obesity-related diseases (including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and some cancers)
• Reduced blood pressure
• Reduced stress, depression & anxiety
• Reduced risk of osteoporosis
• Improved eyesight
• Reduced symptoms of dementia
• Reduced risk of developing asthma
• Improved sleeping patterns
• Improved immune function
• Extended lifespan

Something else to check out: Environmental Health Perspectives put together a Research Agenda that collects peer-reviewed articles to support health claims for outdoors exposure. This comprehensive listing identifies 20 health benefits related to the outdoors and is a great resource to have on hand.

For a look at where the health benefits of being outside has shown up in the news, head over to our Resources for Outdoor Partners page.