New Study: Some Dirt Is Healthy
No parent wants a mud-covered child trekking through the house, but new research has shown that a little bit of dirt could actually be good for kids.
Researchers at Northwestern University looked at the link between infections early in life and diseases later in life, and the came up with some interesting stuff—most notably, that being exposed to common bacteria and microbes as a kid can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease as an adult. An overly squeaky-clean environment can depress the immune system’s development.
The study’s lead author, Dr. Thomas McDade, points out that parents’ obsession with protecting their kids from germs is relatively new—not to mention harmful. “We may be depriving developing immune systems of important environmental input needed to guide their function throughout childhood and into adulthood,” he says.
How can you make sure your kids get a healthy dose of bacteria in their lives? Stay away from antibacterial gels and soaps, which are unnecessary since old-fashioned soap and water will do the trip. And the next time your kid comes home covered in dirt, remember that it could help them avoid illness later in life!
-Michelle, KIWI editor
Tags: antibacterial products, bacteria
2 comments
Thanks for this post. I whole-heartedly agree that we are gelling ourselves into big immune system trouble.
This is great…plus they love it, and it allows them to be free..playing outside is so fun and getting into dirt is even better..
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