Nature's role in preventing allergies

Some fascinating research has recently been published on the prevalence of allergies, especially ones that affect the respiratory tract such as asthma and hay fever.  It provides some potentially great news for those who are bringing up children in the countryside.

Two giant studies on around 15,000 children in Northern Europe found a strong link between young children’s exposure to bacteria and fungi associated with farms and low incidences of allergies in families such as asthma and hay fever.

Over the past few years many studies have shown a link between a low exposure to microbes generally and increased instances of allergies.  The thinking has been that living in a highly scrubbed and disinfected environment may not give children the healthiest start.

However this latest research leads the scientists to believe that the type of microbes children are exposed to are actually what’s important. Bacteria and fungi associated with hay and soil are potentially the most beneficial.  The argument is that early exposure for a baby or young child provides a level of protection.

This research gives you another excuse, as if one was needed, to get out and enjoy this sensational spring weather. Take the prams and pushchairs out on some country walks, enjoy a picnic on the grass and breathe in the fresh and health-giving air.