Good Green News: More Residential Greenery Means Lower Stress During Pregnancy

Pregnant women who live in greener neighborhoods may have lower levels of long-term stress, according to new research conducted in Israel. Scientists found greater exposure to residential greenery during pregnancy was associated with lower levels of the stress hormones cortisol and cortisone. Both of these can affect maternal and fetal health.

To conduct the research, scientists analyzed hair samples from nearly 400 pregnant women to determine their chronic stress levels during their second trimester. Hair samples - unlike blood, saliva or urine tests - measure stress accumulated over several months. They found that women living in greener neighborhoods during this phase of pregnancy had significantly lower levels of the stress hormones in their hair.

To learn even more about the many benefits of green space on our health and well-being, visit TurfMutt.com and check out the TurfMutt Foundation’s International Backyarding Fact Book.