Editor’s Note: This article was previously published on July 31, 2017.
In the typical American household, there is often a strong aversion to dirt of any kind. Hand sanitizer is a common sight in school classrooms, day care centers, and even in the purses of moms with toddlers. But is avoiding germs really the best approach? Microbial ecosystems scientist Jack Gilbert, Ph.D., decided to investigate the impact of germs on children growing up in today’s modern culture. His findings may surprise some, but he suggests a unique approach to boosting children’s immune systems.
Gilbert’s research suggests that many germ exposures can actually be beneficial. For example, he notes that allowing a dirty pacifier to briefly touch your mouth before giving it back to your child can strengthen their immune system. Gilbert has even written a book titled “Dirt is Good: The Advantage of Germs for Your Child’s Developing Immune System” to address common questions parents have on this topic.
How to Counteract the Impact of ‘Germs’ on Children
Many parents today tend to over-sterilize their environments in an effort to protect their children from dirt and germs. Gilbert suggests that instead of keeping kids out of the dirt, a better approach may be to ensure they consume plenty of colorful vegetables. These foods contain essential vitamins, minerals, and compounds that support overall health. Starting early with vegetables like squash and carrots can help build a strong immune system and promote long-term health.
While it’s tempting to rely on convenient, but often unhealthy snacks and drinks, Gilbert emphasizes the importance of providing nutritious, whole foods to children. Colorful vegetables can provide the essential nutrients needed to keep kids healthy and resilient to illness.
Common Questions About Kids and Germs
Gilbert addresses the observation that children who grow up in rural areas and have more exposure to dirt tend to be healthier than those in urban environments. This raises the question of whether getting hands into good soil can have health benefits.
He also explores the link between over-sterilization and the rise in allergies among children. Gilbert explains that in the past, kids were exposed to good bacteria through fermented foods and outdoor play. However, modern-day practices of sterilization may be contributing to an increase in conditions like asthma and eczema.
Regarding interactions with animals, Gilbert suggests that allowing kids to play with pets can be beneficial for their health. While some parents may be cautious, Gilbert points out that exposure to animals can support a child’s immune system.
When it comes to hand sanitizer, Gilbert advises against its frequent use. While hand-washing is important during cold and flu season, he notes that soap and water are sufficient for cleaning children’s hands and are less harmful than antibacterial alternatives.
Soil-Based Organisms (SBOs) — A Unique Form of Probiotics
While probiotics like kefir and yogurt are well-known for their health benefits, Gilbert highlights the importance of soil-based organisms (SBOs). These hardy bacteria found in soil can support immune function, reduce inflammation, aid in digestion, support detoxification, and even influence genetic expression.
Studies have shown that certain SBOs can have significant health benefits, including improving symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. The diversity of bacteria and fungi in soil has been linked to a lower likelihood of asthma, and specific strains like Mycobacterium vaccae can release serotonin, promoting feelings of happiness.
Gardening, which exposes individuals to SBOs in dirt, has been shown to reduce cortisol levels and improve mood. Overall, Gilbert’s research emphasizes the importance of embracing germs and dirt for the health and well-being of children.
Gardening restored a positive mood, but reading caused further deterioration. These results suggest that gardening can provide relief from acute stress. Gradual acclimation to soil is beneficial for releasing healing aspects, especially for adults. Gut bacteria play a crucial role in health, impacting various conditions from allergies to mood. Probiotics are on the rise, with interest in soil-based organisms growing. Food-based probiotic sources like kombucha and kimchi are recommended for gut health. The Human Microbiome Project highlighted the importance of microbes in overall health. Reintroducing beneficial bacteria and fungi to soil is essential for plant and human health. Helper bacteria from soil-based organisms can benefit and balance your microbiome. Maintaining a balance of beneficial bacteria is crucial for overall health and disease resistance. Introducing soil-based organisms to your microbiome may be essential for promoting health. Un científico, Hank Liers, afirma que los seres humanos llevan aproximadamente 99 veces más material genético no humano, es decir, bacteriano, que humano.
Beneficios de SBOs
Probablemente esencial para la salud humana, Integrated Health Blog lista una serie de beneficios que los SBOs podrían proporcionar:
Mejora de la salud gastrointestinal
Prevención de la colonización intestinal por bacterias y hongos dañinos
Apoyo a la regeneración intestinal
Apoyo para equilibrar la microbiota intestinal
PH más equilibrado en el colon
Aumento de la resistencia a bacterias y hongos dañinos
Mayor absorción de nutrientes en tus intestinos
Reposición de microflora en tu colon
Salud y bienestar en general
Mejor metabolismo intestinal
Función intestinal normalizada
Redución de gases e hinchazón
Mejor funcionamiento del sistema inmunológico
Mejora de la función de barrera del tracto gastrointestinal
Mientras puedes buscar SBOs en forma de suplemento, tu mejor apuesta podría ser simplemente salir al exterior y poner tus manos y pies en la tierra (en un área libre de tratamientos químicos, por supuesto) mientras haces jardinería, cavando o simplemente reconectándote con la tierra.
Los niños hacen esto de forma natural, siempre que se lo permitamos, y quizás esta sea una lección de la que los adultos también podríamos aprender. Si cultivas tus propias verduras orgánicas, también obtendrás algo de exposición a SBOs, especialmente si disfrutas comiendo los frutos de tu trabajo directamente de la vid.