Fighting Germs

There have been several news articles on the net recently about how many germs are lurking on common surfaces we contact on a daily basis.  Among those highlighted have been toothbrushes, the computer mouse and keyboard, cell phones, dishwashers, sponges, vacuums, door knobs, your office desk, handles on kitchen faucets, mats at the gym, the ATM, and of course the TV remote.  The solution given in every article is to to clean, clean, clean.  Disinfect every surface, every time.

The reality however is that we all touch countless surfaces every day that are brimming with pathogenic bacteria and viruses.  So why aren't we all sick all the time?  That's because the germs are only part of the equation.  The most significant factor is what is termed "host resistance".  This refers to the ability of the person coming in contact with the pathogen to be able to fight the pathogen's ability to cause the disease.  The stronger our immune system is the less likely we are to be affected by any particular germ.  I've observed over the years that some of the people with great immune systems are not particularly fastidious.  On the other hand, I've seen many people who are obsessed with cleaning things yet they have poor immune systems and are frequently sick.  One of the reasons for this is that contact with pathogenic organisms strengthens our immune systems.

The immune system is complex and contact with pathogens is only one factor in strengthening it.  Other things an individual can do is to get adequate sleep, manage stress levels, avoid toxins. exercise regularly, and eat a healthy diet particularly one that promotes alkalinity.  Nutritional supplements such as B complex, Vit. A, C, D & E, probiotics, zinc and others can be very helpful.  An often neglected factor in immune system health is the nervous system which controls all body functions.  Regular chiropractic care assures that the nervous system and consequently the immune system can work optimally.  I've worked hard to keep my immune system strong and chiropractic adjustments are a key factor for me.  Please do not take my next statement as bragging.  As a result of getting adjusted regularly plus consciously looking after my immune system, I have missed only 3 days of work in 26 years due to illness.  Keep in mind that I'm in contact with unhealthy people every day.

Despite what you might think from what I've written already, I truly believe hygiene is an essential factor in maintaining a healthy immune system.  But, we cannot rely on chemical cleansers to keep us healthy.  It's unrealistic to think we can simply clean every surface every time.  We cannot avoid all pathogens, but we can't be foolish and put ourselves in situations where our immune systems will be overwhelmed.  Cleaning hands and surfaces is wise but not to the point of being obsessed. Germs only beat us when we are weaker than the germs, so stay strong.