Who knew it had such a impact!

It's already been proven that the general area that you live in can make a big difference to your health. For example growing up on a farm can prevent respiratory problems and having lots of plants or living near nature can help you live longer. But it turns out that even the size of your home could make a difference to your health. A recent study by researchers at the Queen Mary University of London looked at the living environments of mice and found interesting results. Some mice were kept in ordinary cages with sawdust and a second group of mice were placed in big cages with wood chips and toys (a more luxurious area). They took samples of white blood cells called T-cells and exposed them to a substance that acts in the same way as an infection.

"After only two weeks in an enriched environment with plenty of toys and space, the mice's immune systems were completely different and seemed to be better prepared for fighting infections." Lead researcher Professor Fulvio D'Acquisto said.

The mice were not given any drugs or treatment to make them stronger, but the environment they were in had a huge influence. Obviously this has only been done on mice, but it is interesting to note the improvement in immune systems simply from living in a bigger, better space. Professor D'Acquisto said that although it was not tested on humans, it raises an interesting possibility.

"What if doctors were able to change a patient's environment and prescribe a two week holiday? Or perhaps we could boost the effects of standard drug treatments that deal with the mechanics of infection, by also offering something environmental that improves a patient's more general wellbeing. That might be a promising approach for treating chronic diseases."

So if you're immune system is low, it might be time to redecorate your house or move into something a little more spacious. Maybe this explains our homeware addiction.