Is it possible to be too clean?
Growing up, it is a given that mothers and aunties constantly remind you to wash your hands, wipe down every surface, and avoid “dirty” things at all costs.
The logic seems sound: Cleanliness equals health. However, there is an emerging idea that, in our quest for cleanliness, we might be going too far and weakening our immune systems in the process.
You might have heard people say that kids today are getting sick more than previous generations. It might just be because, in trying to shield ourselves from germs, we are also depriving our bodies of the chance to build resilience. This sounds weird right, read on.
Understanding the Hygiene Hypothesis
The idea that being overly clean could be a bad thing is known as the “hygiene hypothesis.” It suggests that environments that are too clean, where germs are virtually eliminated, might prevent our immune systems from developing properly.
If we are not exposed to enough bacteria and other microbes, the immune system does not get enough practice in distinguishing between actual threats and harmless substances. Over time, this lack of exposure can make the immune system more sensitive and prone to overreacting, leading to allergies and even autoimmune diseases.
According to British epidemiologist, David P. Strachan who first proposed the hygiene hypothesis in 1989 in an article in the British Medical Journal. His research analysed the prevalence of hay fever and other allergic conditions and found that children from larger families with more siblings, particularly older siblings, had a lower risk of developing allergies. Strachan proposed that early exposure to infections from siblings might help the immune system build tolerance to allergens.
Think about it: Why do children who grow up in rural areas, who are exposed to the soil, animals, and different bacteria, tend to have fewer allergies than kids raised in more sanitised, urban environments?
The Good Bacteria We Need
When we say “bacteria,” our instinct might be to cringe, but not all bacteria are harmful; in fact, many are essential for our health. Our gut, in particular, is home to trillions of beneficial bacteria that aid digestion, boost our immune system, and even impact our mental health. Exposure to a diverse range of germs in our environment helps cultivate a balanced microbiome, which plays a crucial role in our overall health.
In our quest to be clean, we sometimes overdo it, wiping out not only harmful bacteria but also the good bacteria that protect us. Children raised in ultra-clean environments, with constant hand sanitisers and antibacterial wipes, might miss out on this essential microbial exposure.
Finding a Healthy Balance
So, does this mean we should stop washing our hands or cleaning our homes? No! But there is a way to practice “healthy” cleanliness without going overboard. Here are some tips:
1. Use Antibacterial Products Sparingly
Antibacterial soap is not always necessary for everyday handwashing. Regular soap and water works just as well for daily hygiene, especially after everyday tasks. Save the antibacterial wipes for situations where they are truly needed, like in hospitals.
2. Embrace Fermented Foods
Foods like ogi (fermented corn), and even some yogurts contain probiotics, which help maintain a healthy balance of good bacteria in the gut.
3. Ventilation Over Sanitisation
Instead of obsessively cleaning every corner, make sure your home is well-ventilated. Fresh air can help reduce the concentration of indoor allergens and bacteria.
Final Thoughts
We do not need to aim for absolute sterility in our environments. Instead of aiming for a germ-free life, we can aim for a balanced one that supports our immune system’s natural ability to adapt strengthening it in the process.
Read also: The Human Cost of Healthcare Misinformation
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