Germs in the home and your health
In our body and the environment around us, there’s a hidden world are countless trillions of germs and bacteria. This world is called the microbiome. While we often associate the words ‘germs’ and ‘bacteria’ negatively with disease, we humans actually need a whole host of good bacteria to survive. Our immune system and our ability to fight disease hinges on having these good bacteria around. They eat muck, gunge and filth…and most importantly, they do it so well, that bad bacteria are outnumbered, starve and die. Double the benefit.
But… some germs and bacteria are a problem!
What are the problems germs in the home?
In most homes, the areas where bad bacteria can thrive is usually related 4 areas… the kitchen (including food preparation), hand hygiene habits, pets and toilet visits. If there are young children in the house these 4 areas can be more difficult to manage.
Some of the most common problem bacteria in the home include…
- Escherichia coli (E-coli)
- Salmonella
- Listeria
- Staphylococcus aureus
Are disinfectants the answer?
In the home environment, using disinfectants and conventional cleaning chemicals everyday basically ‘nukes’ or completely obliterates all bacteria on a surface… the good and the bad.
Even though temporarily effective, this ‘kill all’ approach wipes out the good bacteria and it’s benefits, while paving the way for bad bacteria and viruses to build resistance. This antimicrobial resistance is on the rise and now a global health problem already causing thousands of deaths each year.
Overuse of disinfectants and antimicrobials is also thought to have a negative effect on the immune system and gut health.
There is a time and a place for disinfection, but in the same way the medical profession uses antibiotics, we should use disinfectants sparingly and only when absolutely necessary. Unfortunately in many homes, disinfectants and antimicrobial/antibacterial products are used everyday. This would be a similar philosophy to using antibiotics as a daily supplement or preventative measure… not recommended.
Tips to reduce the number of bad germs in your home
- Wash and dry your hands (especially before and after handling food and after going to the toilet)
- Wash plates, cups, utensils, chopping boards etc. after each use.
- Keep pets and feeding bowls out of the kitchen.
- For spills on the floor or messes from pets, use a single-use paper towel.
- Keep fridge temperature at 4 degrees celcius.
- Defrost foods in the fridge, not at room temperature.
- Don’t let raw meat and poultry come in contact with other foods.
- Empty bins and remove food scraps daily.
- Replace dish cloths, sponges and tea towels daily. These can be washed, dried and reused in most cases.
- Use a designated chopping board and knife just for meat.
- Wash your fruit and veggies with water. Washing eggs before use is a good idea too because they often have traces off chock poo on the shell.
- Don’t leave pet food out for extended periods. This attracts pests.
- Check food expiry dates and dispose immediately when past the best before date.
- Wipe your fridge handle regularly
- Keep benchtops dry.
- Don’t make food for others if you are unwell.
Recommended product for wiping surfaces and washing dishes
Visit Naturopath Recommended’s compound laboratory for more information.