In the vast world of health and hygiene, a folk proverb has been circulating for a long time:"It's not dry, it's not clean, and it's not sick after eating"。This sentence seems to challenge the basic principles of modern hygiene, and at the same time arouses a series of curiosities and questions. Is that really the case? In this science-oriented age, we can't just rely on an old proverb to make a conclusion. In fact, is there some scientific truth behind this?
In the in-depth exploration of the scientific basis behind the folk wisdom of "no dry, no clean, no disease after eating", it has to be mentioned that the complex and delicate relationship between the human body and microorganisms has to be mentioned. From the moment of birth, the human body is constantly interacting with thousands of microorganisms. These tiny organisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, etc., are present not only on our **, but also in our intestines, and even in the air we breathe. Staying away from over-sanitized environments and allowing children to play in nature may help expose them to diverse microbial populations. This exposure is partly beneficial because it helps build and strengthen the immune system, teaching the body to recognize and fight off foreign invaders. Studies have shown that early exposure to diverse microorganisms, especially in early childhood, can help reduce the risk of developing allergic and autoimmune diseases in the future.
The modern hygiene hypothesis proposes the idea that excessive cleaning and disinfection may lead to a decline in immune system function. This hypothesis stems from observations of a surge in autoimmune and allergic diseases over the past few decades. Studies have shown that children who grow up in clean, frequently disinfected environments are more likely to develop allergic diseases than those who grow up in environments that are more natural and exposed to a variety of microorganisms. This is not to say that we should abandon cleanliness and hygiene altogether, but it points to the importance of finding a balance in modern life. Proper "don't do it clean" can be a factor in the healthy development of the immune system.
The gut is known as the "second brain" of the human body, and its health status has a profound impact on overall health. The microbial community in the gut (gut microbiota) is one of the key factors in maintaining good health. Eating habits directly affect the diversity and balance of the gut flora, and a varied diet helps to maintain a healthy balance of gut flora. Studies have shown that a diet rich in fiber, such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, etc., can promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, which are essential for the proper functioning of the immune system. By increasing the diversity in your diet, you can strengthen the intestinal wall and reduce the chance of harmful microorganisms invading, which in turn improves the body's overall resistance.
Finally, the impact of environmental diversity on human health. Living in an environment with more contact with nature, such as rural areas or urban areas with many green spaces, can increase exposure to diverse microorganisms. This exposure is considered a natural solution to the "over-cleaning" of modern life. Not only does it help develop a stronger immune system, but it also promotes mental health and reduces stress and anxiety. By being exposed to the diverse natural environment, people can radically improve their quality of life and achieve physical and mental health.