| The effect
of negative ion depletion varies from person to person; the least
fortunate can suffer migraine, asthma and severe depression.
Most
authorities on the subject agree that ions act on our capacity to
absorb and utilize oxygen. Negative ions in the bloodstream
accelerate the delivery of oxygen to our cells and tissues,
whereas positive ions slow down this delivery of oxygen, producing
symptoms markedly like those in anoxia (or oxygen starvation).
The body
chemical serotonin, linked with mood and stress, is also
influenced by air ion levels. Too many positive ions alter the
levels, causing stress and discomfort. Increasing the negative ion
concentration helps bring relief.
Researchers
believe that negative ions may stimulate the reticulo-endothelial
system, a group of defense cells in our bodies which marshal our
resistance to disease.
Offices
and organizations that have installed negative air ionization
equipment have found that their employees are less likely to get
colds, report absent less frequently and are generally more
cheerful and alert.
Scientists
have also recommended the use of negative air ionizers in the
closed and artificial atmospheres of submarines and spacecraft.
Our modern
vehicles have their problems too! Basically they are a
plastic-lined metal shell, with air supplied through ducting. All
these factors dramatically increase positive ions. Opening a
window can cause problems, letting in polluted city air.
Many
drivers, (long-distance drivers particularly) find using an
ionizer in their vehicle helps their alertness and concentration -
and in some cases, their passenger's travel sickness - along with
the usual benefits of removing pollen and smoke.
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