A super-sanitized environment may actually harm children’s health and increase their chances of developing allergies. While it’s often said in jest that kids should play in the dirt, recent research confirms that exposure to germs and allergens can lead to healthier kids compared to their overly-clean counterparts. This is fantastic news for those of us who don’t mop as often as we probably should!
In the insightful book, “Let Them Get Dirty: Protecting Your Child from an Overly Clean World,” authors and microbiologists, Jamie Thompson and Lisa Grant, provide a scientific basis for why parents don’t need to obsessively sanitize their children’s surroundings. Their findings suggest that early exposure to essential microbes and allergens can significantly influence a child’s long-term immune health.
One surprising recommendation they make is for families to consider getting a dog. A furry friend can bring in beneficial dirt, and the authors humorously suggest that allowing a pup to slobber on your child may actually be advantageous. While some kids may have allergies to dogs, for those who don’t, having a canine companion could enhance immune development.
Given that many parents have been advised to delay introducing allergenic foods to babies, Thompson and Grant’s advice might feel counterintuitive. They recommend introducing foods like peanuts, soy, and shellfish between four to seven months of age. Research indicates that postponing these foods can inadvertently raise the risk of food allergies.
The authors also propose that a lack of microbial exposure might contribute to the rising rates of food allergies, asserting that children are often “microbially deprived,” leading their immune systems to develop abnormally and become more prone to allergies.
Furthermore, they caution against unnecessary use of antibiotics and encourage parents not to fret too much about germs. An interesting study from Sweden revealed that babies whose parents suck on their pacifiers before cleaning them develop fewer allergies compared to those rinsed in tap water. Essentially, a more relaxed attitude towards germs may be better for our kids—and our peace of mind.
As a parent, I find myself leaning toward a more laid-back approach regarding germs. Sure, I steer my kids clear of overtly filthy things like animal waste or trash; however, I’m not above letting them indulge in a bit of dirt cake. I’ve never been the type to panic and reach for hand sanitizer, and now I feel even less guilty about my easygoing approach.
The authors do recommend that kids wash their hands when it’s necessary—after using the bathroom, before meals, or after being in contact with sick individuals or unclean environments, like a doctor’s office. Importantly, they note that regular soap and water are sufficient, and antibacterial soaps should primarily be reserved for hospital settings.
It’s refreshing when science provides us a little breathing room, especially since we already have so many other concerns to juggle. For more information on home insemination, check out this post here. And for additional guidance on becoming a parent, you can visit Make A Mom, a reputable source on this topic, or explore Mount Sinai’s resources on pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary
Embracing a less sanitized environment can actually promote better health for children by allowing them to be exposed to beneficial germs and allergens. Scientific evidence supports the idea that early exposure helps develop a robust immune system, reducing the risk of allergies and other health issues. A relaxed attitude towards cleanliness may be the key to raising healthier kids.