Parents have been warned of the danger of exposing their infants to bacteria. But according to a new study, infants may actually need some exposure to germs to build up their immune system.

The study suggests that a bacteria shield may help infants avoid infections and diseases like asthma later on.

What is a Bacteria Shield?

A bacteria shield is essentially a protective layer of good bacteria that covers the skin and mucosal surfaces in the human body. This shield is made up of a variety of commensal, or harmless, bacteria that live harmoniously with the human body.

The bacteria in the shield help to fight off harmful pathogens by creating a barrier that prevents dangerous microbes from penetrating the body.

How Does it Work?

The human body is home to an estimated 100 trillion bacteria cells, with the gut microbiome comprising the largest population.

When an infant is born, they acquire a range of bacteria from their mother – these are the first organisms to populate the baby’s gut. In the first few days of life, the baby’s gut microbiota is quite porous, allowing bacteria to pass through easily. The beneficial bacteria in the bacteria shield help to form a tight barrier and protect the gut from attack.

It is thought that having a diverse microbiota in the gut can promote a healthy immune system response.

Children who grow up in environments that are too sterile may not develop a strong immune system, as their bodies are not exposed to many different types of bacteria. This can lead to an increased risk of allergies and autoimmune disorders like asthma later in life.

The Benefits of a Bacteria Shield

Research has shown that a diverse microbiota is essential for preventing the onset of allergic conditions like asthma.

Infants who have been exposed to a wide range of bacteria in the early months of life are thought to be less likely to suffer from allergic reactions in the future. The protective effect of the bacteria shield isn’t limited to allergies, however.

The presence of commensal bacteria in the human body has been linked to a range of health benefits, including improved digestion, better cardiovascular health, and a reduced risk of certain cancers.

How to Boost Your Infant’s Bacteria Shield

You can help to boost your infant’s bacteria shield by ensuring that they are exposed to a range of bacteria from an early age.

This doesn’t mean need to be in an overly dirty environment, but it does mean allowing children to play in the dirt and interact with other children. Breastfeeding is another great way to promote the growth of a strong microbiota in babies. The milk contains probiotic bacteria that help to colonize the baby’s gut and support the growth of beneficial bacteria.

If you can’t breastfeed, then feeding your baby formula can still help to promote a diverse microbiota. Make sure to choose a formula that contains pre and probiotics, as these have been shown to promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut.

Conclusion

The idea that exposure to germs can actually be good for children may seem counterintuitive, but it turns out that it’s true.

A bacteria shield can help to build up the immune system in infants and protect against a range of diseases and conditions later on. By ensuring that your child has a diverse microbiota from an early age, you can help to promote a healthy immune system and protect against a range of chronic health conditions.