When we see something that makes us cringe, we immediately feel disgusted. This feeling is quite natural given the fact that we have evolved to avoid potential dangers in our environment.

However, not many people know that feeling disgust or shuddering can be a sign of good health.

What is disgust?

Disgust is an emotional response to something that is considered to be unpleasant or repugnant. It is a natural reaction that we have towards things that we think may harm us or that do not comply with our social norms.

Disgust can be triggered by different stimuli such as bad smells, unsanitary environments, creepy-crawly critters, offensive foods, and many more. This feeling is often accompanied by physical sensations such as shuddering, nausea, gagging, and trembling.

Disgust as an evolutionary mechanism

The purpose of disgust is to protect us from potential dangers. It is an evolutionary mechanism that helps us avoid things that could make us sick or hurt us.

When we feel disgusted, we know that we have to stay away from something because it could be harmful. For example, if we see a moldy piece of food, we immediately feel disgusted because we know that it could make us sick if we eat it. Similarly, if we see a poisonous snake, we feel disgusted and afraid because we know that it could harm us.

The health benefits of feeling disgusted

Feeling disgusted or shuddering can have some health benefits too. Here are a few of them:.

1. Protects us from potential pathogens

One of the primary benefits of feeling disgusted is that it helps us avoid potential pathogens. When we feel disgusted by something, it means that we know we need to stay away from it because it could make us sick.

This reaction is especially important when it comes to preventing the spread of infectious diseases. For example, feeling disgusted by someone who is coughing or sneezing can help us avoid getting sick.

2. Helps us make healthy choices

Feeling disgusted can also help us make healthier choices. When we see something that is unhealthy or potentially harmful, feeling disgusted by it can help us avoid it.

For example, if we are trying to lose weight, feeling disgusted by junk food can help us make healthier food choices.

3. Helps us avoid risky behaviors

Disgust can also help us avoid risky behaviors. When we feel disgusted by something, it means that we know we need to stay away from it because it could be dangerous.

For example, feeling disgusted by drugs or alcohol can help us avoid engaging in risky behaviors.

4. Promotes cleanliness and hygiene

Feeling disgusted by unsanitary environments can encourage us to maintain cleanliness and hygiene. When we feel disgusted by something, it means that we know we need to clean it or get rid of it.

For example, feeling disgusted by a dirty bathroom can motivate us to clean it.

When is disgust not healthy?

While feeling disgusted or shuddering can be a sign of good health, there are certain instances when disgust can be unhealthy. Here are a few examples:.

1. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

People with OCD can become fixated on feeling disgusted. They may feel the need to clean excessively or avoid certain things that trigger their disgust. This can interfere with their daily life and lead to behaviors that are not necessary.

2. Eating disorders

People with eating disorders may feel disgusted by certain foods and avoid them altogether. This can lead to malnutrition and other health problems.

3. Phobias

Phobias are intense and irrational fears of certain objects or situations. People with phobias may feel disgusted by things that pose no real threat. This can lead to avoidance behaviors that interfere with their daily life.

Conclusion

Feeling disgusted or shuddering can be a sign of good health. It is a natural reaction that we have evolved to help us avoid potential dangers. However, it is important to note that there are instances when disgust can be unhealthy.

If you feel that your feelings of disgust are interfering with your daily life, you should talk to a healthcare professional.