In our modern, “ultra clean” and germaphobic society, we often go to great lengths in making sure our exposure to germs is minimal.
I often watch people use pocket size antibacterial soaps constantly throughout the day, making sure they apply it on their hands after touching anything not connected to their own body.
And many parents spend a majority of their day making sure their children are properly doused with this soap in an effort to restrict any and all germs from contacting their children.
But is all this fuss actually doing you or your children any good?
Not according to the latest study published in the December 9th edition of the journal Proceedings of the Royal society B: Biological Sciences.
This study is the first to investigate whether microbial exposures early in life affect inflammatory processes related to diseases in adulthood.
The Northwestern study suggests exposure to infectious microbes in childhood may actually protect youngsters from developing serious illnesses, including cardiovascular diseases, when they grow into adults.
Researcher, Thomas McDade concludes that “inflammatory networks may need the same type of microbial exposures early in life that have been part of the human environment for all of our evolutionary history to function optimally in adulthood.”
Basically, the “Super Sterile” environment that we have prided ourselves on creating, is actually inhibiting the body from naturally creating proper antibodies and is resulting in higher incidences of inflammation in the adult years of life.
The truth is: Germs DO NOT cause disease!
A body’s inability to deal with the germ causes a disease to manifest and produce symptoms. This is why only some of the people exposed to a virus or germ are affected by it.
If the germ was the cause of disease, EVERYONE exposed to it would get sick.
Proper healthy exposure to germs is necessary for the body to build natural immunities that will help fight off future diseases and conditions. The body REQUIRES good bacteria to function properly and the use of antibacterial soaps destroys BOTH the good and the bad.
Not only that, but by using antibacterial soap repeatedly you are contributing to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Antibacterial soaps are also laden with other chemicals that have been shown to disrupt the endocrine system.
One particular ingredient is Triclosan, which has been shown to hasten the transformation of tadpoles into adult frogs.
The best way to practice proper hygiene is to use good old fashion soap and water. This method will eliminate harmful germs from your hands while preserving the essential bacteria that your body needs. In fact, studies show that using soap and water is the MOST effective way to eliminate viruses from your hands.
So stop being an over protective parent or germaphobic adult and live a little. Allow your kids to play in the mud and stop allowing the fear of germs dictate your life.
Throw away your antibacterial soap products and concentrate on using good old fashioned soap and water. This simple change will help you and your family stay healthy and move you one step closer to Optimal Health.
About the Author: Dr Tunis Hunt Jr is a wellness adviser specializing in nutrition, chiropractic, and weight loss. In addition to serving his clients, Dr. Hunt lectures and educates the public on nutrition and health based information, as well as, is a contributing author to several publications and websites. To reach Dr. Hunt for questions and comments or to schedule him to speak to your group or company please call 704-588-1792 or email him. www.HuntForWellness.com
