Is too much hygiene counterproductive for the immune system of our toddlers? We asked the question to Dr. Pierre Popowski, pediatrician.
Why do you think our children today are too clean?
Dr Pierre Popowski. Advances in medicine mean that our children evolve in an environment that is too sanitized. However, the more the child is in contact with small microbes from early childhood, the more his immune system is developing. Otherwise, their body does not produce enough antibodies to defend itself against disease. live on the farmby exposing yourself to dust and animals, reduces by 50% the probability of develop asthma.
Does it start baby?
Dr Pierre Popowski. Studies show that the children born by caesarean section are sick more often. Those born vaginally have passed through a less clean channel (their mother’s vagina) but are paradoxically more protected. the amniotic liquid itself would not be sterile, just like breast milk. Bathing in good bacteria from birth has a positive influence.
So, should we relax the hygiene rules?
Dr Pierre Popowski. Yes, without a doubt. Of course, it is not a question of going back to the Middle Ages! It’s all about balance and context. In the hospital, it is normal for the hygiene conditions to be drastic. On the other hand, at home, in the absence of illness, resorting to hydroalcoholic solutions thirty times a day is excessive.
Do you already see progress in this direction?
Dr Pierre Popowski. Yes, especially in neonatology. We no longer put antibiotic drops in infants’ eyes, nor Biseptine ® type disinfectants on the umbilical cord. There are no moreantibiotic therapy prevention in children. impetigowhere the ingrown toenails are no longer systematically treated with general antibiotics. It’s already quite a revolution!
What can be done to develop their defenses?
Dr Pierre Popowski. You have to let them be in contact with the earth, the dust, the sand, allow them to bring their hands to their mouths. You can also visit a farm, go to the forest, spend time outdoors, adopt a pet… And not necessarily giving the baby a bath every day. When he grows up, don’t overdo him clean the nose, under penalty of removing the mucus, rich in good bacteria. Do not systematically burn your warts either: these viral infections are useful for the maturation of the immune system.
Let them get dirty, yes, but to what extent?
Dr Pierre Popowski. There is obviously a limit to dirt and basic rules to follow to protect your child. He must be taught to wash one’s hands with soap and water, before each meal, after having a bowel movement or coming from outside. Do not overlook tooth brushing.
Rinse hair at night to remove pollen. Freeze regularly comforters and fluff to get rid of dust mites. And, when possible, avoid him stays in community before 3 years!
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GOOD AND BAD MICROBES: A MATTER OF BALANCE
Bad bacteria, called pathogens, are those that make you sick. We fight against them preventively via vaccines, or curatively via antibiotics. Good bacteria are those that help maintain health. It is found on the skin, in the intestine, the mucous membranes. A healthy diet, rich in fiber, promotes the development of these microbiota. They are boosted by consuming probiotics (in cheese, yogurts, raw sauerkraut, fermented foods, etc.).
