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A Simple Approach to Promoting Lifelong Health in Children: Embrace the Dirt
Research began to highlight the adverse effects of pervasive antimicrobial agents like triclosan. These substances not only failed to demonstrate superiority over regular soap and water in preventing infections but also raised concerns about contributing to antibiotic-resistant bacteria. In 2016, the FDA took a stand against these products, stating, “Companies will no longer be able to market antibacterial washes with these ingredients because manufacturers did not demonstrate that the ingredients are both safe for long-term daily use and more effective than plain soap and water in preventing illness and the spread of certain infections.“
Reflecting on my fourth child, I can confidently say he has been my messiest offspring yet also my healthiest. I never worried when his older siblings returned from school, scooping him up with hands that had undoubtedly been exposed to a multitude of germs throughout the day. This child spent countless hours crawling through dirt in our yard, on sports fields, and various locations teeming with diverse microbes.
Are These Microbes Truly Harmful?
Recent research suggests otherwise. A groundbreaking study led by anthropologist Sarah Thompson at Northwestern University indicates that children exposed to a rich diversity of germs may experience lower levels of inflammation later in life. This study does not merely focus on the immediate benefits of germ exposure during childhood; it highlights long-term immunity development that extends well into adulthood.
Chronic inflammation in adults is associated with numerous health issues, including asthma, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, cancer, and even depression. By training the body to manage its inflammatory response effectively, we can potentially mitigate the risk of these diseases. Thompson’s research emphasizes that early exposure to germs significantly influences the immune system’s ability to regulate inflammation.
In affluent societies, where cleanliness is prioritized, we are witnessing a rise in what are termed “diseases of affluence.” Researcher Mark Johnson attributes this phenomenon to poorly educated immune systems, which fail to regulate inflammation properly. This may explain the increasing prevalence of celiac disease and allergies in the U.S., in stark contrast to regions like the Philippines, where infants are frequently exposed to dirt and bacteria.
Finding Beneficial Microbes
So, where can we find these beneficial microbes? Johnson explains, “The microbial exposures that help our bodies learn to regulate inflammation are typically non-infectious—they’re found in soil, decomposing vegetables, and non-purified water sources. These have been integral to the human environment for millennia.”
Thus, it is time for parents to reconsider their approach to hygiene. Rather than relying on products like Purell, allow your children to engage with their environment. Playing in the dirt and exploring their surroundings not only gives parents a much-needed respite but also supports their children’s immune development. The advantages of reduced early-life illness and lower rates of chronic conditions in adulthood make a little mess worthwhile.
Additional Resources
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In conclusion, allowing children to engage with their environment, including getting dirty, fosters healthier immune systems and may lead to improved long-term health outcomes.