Cleanliness is important. But even in this area the best is often the enemy of the good. And for good reason, cleaning products are sold on the market they are full of chemical ingredients that are sometimes (often) harmful to your health. Endocrine disruptors, irritants, pollutants… It is better to avoid breathing the vapors of degreasing sprays and other disinfectant wipes too often.
But another health problem arises: wouldn’t having a house that’s too clean lock us into a sanitized environment, which would therefore be harmful to our immunity?
What are the risks of having a house that is too clean?
Less efficient immune defenses
After the Covid crisis, homes have never been cleaner. But cleanliness does not mean safety for health. This was stated by Professor Annick Barbaud, head of the department of dermatology and allergology at the Tenon hospital in Paris, interviewed by Marie Claire, Cases of allergies have increased in recent years:
“We have realized for several years that there are many more allergic manifestations in populations raised in very sanitized environments. In childhood, our immune system learns to defend itself from the molecules around us. But for this it must come into contact with as many elements as possible.
But what exactly is this phenomenon due to? According to the allergist, this is a complex response from the body:
“There are two main types of immune responses: those involving cells called Th1 lymphocytes and those involving Th2 lymphocytes. The former serve to protect us from pathogens such as viruses and bacteria. The second fight against parasites – such as worms – or against environmental proteins. »
Since we are less prey to parasites, the Th2 type immune response has ample opportunity to focus on exposure to mites, pollen, dust or even animal hair (domestic or otherwise). Result? Allergy cases are increasing tenfold.
The destruction of all bacteria… Even the good ones
Even if their name says nothing, bacteria are not always full of bad intentions. Some of them are even essential for the correct functioning of our body and its protection. Others, recognized by the body, are simply fought and eliminated, as the doctor explains. All without causing illness or infection. The problem is that excessive hygiene can lead to a depletion of good bacteria, essential to avoid developing chronic diseases… Now you know.
Image credits: @Clay Banks
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Source: Madmoizelle
Mary Crossley is an author at “The Fashion Vibes”. She is a seasoned journalist who is dedicated to delivering the latest news to her readers. With a keen sense of what’s important, Mary covers a wide range of topics, from politics to lifestyle and everything in between.
