If you want to avoid getting sick, we must maintain cleanliness…

Everyone has probably heard this before. With daily routines instilling the importance of cleanliness, from waking up to shower, washing your face, brushing your teeth, washing hands throughout the day, brushing teeth again after meals, doing laundry, cleaning the house weekly, and more. Nowadays, we are surrounded by antibacterial products that claim to eliminate up to 99.9% of bacteria, including paper towels, alcohol sprays, and even air purifiers for disinfecting our homes.

But believe it or not, over the past 50 years, developed countries in the Western world have seen a higher rate of 'allergies' and 'diabetes' compared to developing countries, with a shocking upward trend. More than 40% of children in the United States suffer from chronic immune-related illnesses. Interestingly, even within the same country, children from wealthy families tend to get sick more often than those from poorer families. Why is that?

An old friend we may have forgotten

We might overlook the fact that humans have lived in environments filled with bacteria and other microorganisms for thousands of years. The development of the human immune system is intricately linked to these microorganisms. In the past, 'good bacteria' played a crucial role in strengthening our immune systems. Some microorganisms even assist in our digestive processes or influence our mood.

However, in today's world, where cleanliness is overly emphasized, we are nearly wiping out these helpful microorganisms. Research on the 'Hygiene Hypothesis,' affectionately dubbed the 'Lost Friends Hypothesis,' shows that being 'too clean' may have long-term effects on our bodies.

The development of human immunity progresses rapidly between the ages of 1 and 3. A study from the New York University School of Medicine found that children raised in overly sterile environments are more likely to develop 'allergies' and experience illnesses that are harder to recover from. In the long run, they may also have a higher risk of diabetes and depression.

In contrast, children who grow up in households with pets, mice, or cockroaches are exposed to a wider variety of microorganisms, leading to stronger immune systems.

This theory applies not only to children but also to adults. Currently, over 50% of Alzheimer's patients are in developed countries, and this number continues to rise. Research published in Oxford Academic has also found that lack of exposure to bacteria or microorganisms is linked to brain inflammation, increasing the risk of Alzheimer's.

Getting dirty to stay healthy?

Everything mentioned does not mean you should stop showering or let your home become messy. Instead, we want to highlight the connection between good health and the external ecosystem. Our bodies are like a small world that thrives on balance and diversity of microorganisms that depend on each other.

It’s not about being dirty, but we can enhance the balance of 'good bacteria' in our bodies through various methods. Starting with our diet, we should consume fiber-rich foods, organic produce, and freshly prepared meals that are unprocessed. Eating fermented foods or yogurt can also help replenish probiotics in our bodies.

Moreover, spending time in nature, walking in parks, digging in the soil, and gardening can also help us acquire beneficial bacteria.

Don’t let fear and excessive cleanliness take your old friends away from you.

 

Thanks for the information from www.thaihealth.or.th