After the COVID pandemic, many of us take hygiene far more seriously than we did before – and that’s a good thing! Good hygiene plays a big role in how well our immune system functions and a stronger immunity means a reduced risk of infections.
Let’s learn more about cleanliness and its links to immunity. Remember: by taking steps each day to maintain a good level of cleanliness, you can boost your immunity, leading to fewer illnesses.
You may have heard that children should be exposed to dirt and germs to develop a strong immune system. There is some validity to this theory.
A child’s immune system must have exposure to a range of harmless microbes to learn how to respond appropriately. This "training" helps them distinguish between harmful and harmless organisms, reducing the risk of allergies and immune-related conditions.
The idea is that if children are raised in extremely sanitised environments, they are more prone to allergies and autoimmune disorders because the immune system can’t cope with everyday germs and bacteria.
You can allow your child to play outside and interact with nature, naturally getting dirty in the process, and still encourage good hygiene. Teach your child to wash their hands regularly, especially after using the bathroom or before eating. You could even teach them about germs and bacteria in an age-appropriate way, so they understand why cleanliness is important.
Like a finely tuned vehicle, your immune system works best when all parts are whole and balanced. Good hygiene is an important cog in this machinery, so take steps each day to practise cleanliness to build and maintain a strong immunity.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, or using any medication.