WE #9: Behaviors to Decrease Exposure to Microbes

Decreased exposure to microbes is associated with an increased likelihood that a child will develop allergies and asthma. Dysbiosis, a condition in which the human microflora suffers a loss of diversity or count of bacteria, is another consequence. Several illnesses in the GI tract are the result of dysbioses, such as Crohn’s disease and inflammatory bowel disease. Thus, it is crucial that behaviors that lead to decreased exposure to microbes are discussed. Hence, medical procedures that result in decreased exposure will not be addressed in this post.

First, the use of products that are harmful to microbes is perhaps the easiest to figure out. These products include antibiotics, disinfectants, and cleaning products. While the use of these products can be justified by hygiene and medical needs, it still leads to decreased exposure to microbes. Antibiotics are the most harmful of all. These medications eliminate both the good and the bad microbes, thus worsening dysbiosis. The use of these medications also possesses the risk of bacteria developing resistance.

Second, not allowing a child to interact with the world can also lead to dysbiosis. How often did you hear your mother said: “Stay home, don’t get some sunlight and playtime?” Playtime encourages interactions with other children and dirt, both possessing microbes. While we are in a pandemic, alternatives like backyard sports and such can be an option.

Third, the lack of breastfeeding can lead to decreased exposure to microbes for the infant. Breastmilk is not only nutritious for the infant but also contains microbes from the mother’s skin and milk. Furthermore, the mother’s behaviors during pregnancy can lead to decreased exposure to microbes to the fetus. Should the mother choose to smoke or consume alcohol or antibiotics during pregnancy, the fetus suffers. Not only in terms of prenatal illnesses but also reduced exposure to microbes.

Exposure to microbes from a young age, even bad microbes like Helicobacter pylori, is helpful toward the developmental health of a child. It is crucial in the sense that the child will grow up with a minimal amount of autoimmune diseases and dysbiosis.