Global Panorama Via Flickr

Global Panorama Via Flickr

Of course it is undeniable that sanitation and antibiotics have helped humans globally, but the unintentional consequences of the ‘friendly fire’ and collateral damage from this attack on germs in the last 50 years has also undoubtedly created new “super bugs” resistant to all but the most potent antibiotics.

We have seen a steady increase in the incidence of asthma, allergies and skin problems to unprecedented levels.

Also noticeable is the increased  predisposition to chronic diseases such as diabetes, chronic fatigue syndromes and irritable bowel syndrome, to name just a few.

You might think that your cough, cold or sinus congestion needs an antibiotic. It probably doesn’t as most colds, bronchitis and sinus infections are caused by viruses. Antibiotics do absolutely nothing for viruses in case you are wondering.

I would advise you to think twice before using those hand sanitizer, soap, tissue, or gel marked  “antibacterial ” as these products are generally not regulated and might make claims that could be considered misleading and unreliable.

Use good old soap and water whenever possible instead.

Try to minimize the friendly fire of the good bugs in your life to increase your overall health.

 

About the author

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Dr. Carol

Dr. Carol- doctor, wife, mom and maker PB&J!
One of my passions is to help people Embrace change, Try new things and be BOLD for a healthier and balanced life!

11 Comments

  • Thanks for the info. I get chronic sinus infections and take antibiotics a lot, but I’m also trying to get into essential oils to help my immune system get stronger.

    • As long as you are aware of the limitations of any form of remedy, you should fine.

      If you listen to the essential oils multi-level marketers, you would get the idea that essential oils cures cancer, treats broken bones, relieves cold, fixes your thyroid and oh settles your hormones while helping you lose weight.

  • Another great article, Dr. Han. If we all do our best to keep fit, watch our diet, and decrease stress where possible, we can make a difference in our health. I have also done “oil pulling” for about the last year, and my dental hygienist remarked at how clean my teeth were at my last checkup. It is also supposed to help eliminate infection in the body. What are your feelings about this? Thanks, and keep up the great work.

    • Ms. Parker, good to hear from you. Carol is MIA at the moment with spotty internet access. I will have her respond to you when she comes out of “seclusion”.

  • This is a message that bears repeating, and often. The overuse of antibiotics/antibacterials is staggering – people need to be exposed to everyday germs in order to strengthen their immune systems.

    • You are right Rebecca. Extremes don’t serve us well. Exposure to mild germs strengthens our immune system. Whallowing in filth will also make us sick.

  • Thanks for these tips! Everyone could stand to use a little caution when thinking their hand sanitizer is going to stop the spread of germs but it seems most of these are just clear lotion, that’s not helping anyone!

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