Why Germs Are OK

September 28th, 2009

With all of the antibacterial products on the market today, and reports about germs in everyday life that sensationalize their danger, you are probably deathly afraid of germs. But in reality, most germs are not harmful and a natural part of life. Read on to find out why germs are OK, and why you should avoid over-sanitizing.

Dogs and cats at home might spell messes for many parents, but for kids, they can cut down on allergies and asthma. Studies have shown that babies who live in homes with multiple pets will have fewer allergies, including allergies to animals, grass, ragweed, and dust mites. These children are also less prone to developing asthma.

Exposure to the germs of other children is acceptable as well. Babies in day care are notorious for coming home sick all of the time, and while that is unpleasant, those same babies tend to have fewer allergies and common illnesses later.

The threat of germs isn’t as dire as you may have been lead to think. Being exposed to disease-causing bacteria doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be infected. Many germs require perfect conditions to reproduce, and your immune system is made to fight them.

Some scientists have linked the rise of superbugs to the use of antibacterial products. With antimicrobial products, bacteria are able to evolve around the products and develop a resistance to them.

There is research called the "hygiene hypothesis" that considers that allergies and autoimmune disorders may happen when we cut out too much bacteria. The thought is that limiting exposure will deprive your body of the opportunity to learn how to react to bacterial threats.

Germs happen, and when they do, it’s not all bad. Our bodies are covered in bacteria, and most of it is harmless. Some bacteria help us digest food, absorb vitamins, and even offer protection against germs that can be harmful.

Although many germs are harmless and even helpful, that doesn’t mean that you should go rolling around in a trash can. Most antibacterial products are not necessary, but doctors recommend fighting common harmful germs with handwashing after using the restroom and before eating. Be careful not to touch your face before you’ve washed your hands and keep your hands out of your mouth, nose, and eyes.

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