The hygiene hypothesis proposes that childhood exposure to germs and certain infections helps the immune system develop. This teaches the body to differentiate harmless substances from the harmful substances that trigger asthma. In theory, exposure to certain germs teaches the immune system not to overreact.

How would you explain hygiene hypothesis to a germaphobe?

“The hygiene hypothesis suggests that early life exposure to microbes helps in the education of an infant’s developing immune system.” That’s why places like farms, or even houses with pets, are thought to have some protective effect against allergies for kids.

What is hygiene hypothesis evolution?

Today, her new hypothesis, dubbed “The Hygiene Hypothesis,” is that children who are around numerous other children or animals early in life are exposed to more microbes, and their immune systems develop more tolerance for the irritants that cause asthma.