Kids Who Play in the Dirt Have Stronger Immune Systems

Tuesday, September 23, 2008 by: Maryann Marshall
Tags: immune function, health news, Natural News

(NewsTarget) Since the nineteen fifties, parents have been meticulous about their young children not getting dirty. The 'germ theory' of disease has caused almost a phobic reaction to anything that smacks of grit.

Babies are kept in playpens so they won't get in the mud (and also to allow the parents freedom to put their attention elsewhere than on the kiddos).

If the baby is put on the floor, a large blanket protects from the elements. Big sister has to police the little one to make sure the boundaries are kept.

Heaven help the Little boy who wants to go out and splash in newly formed puddles after the rain finally stops. Rain lasts forever for a little guy that has to stay in the house while all those glorious raindrops are dropping everywhere.

You know the scenario. The list goes on and on about how we 'protect' our young ones from those nasty germs that are everywhere except our museum-like homes. We are far too busy cleaning to attend to the annoying pleas of our children for our undivided attention.

British scientists have found that getting dirty is actually good for children. It helps their immune system become more robust, and boosts mood. Let's all get out and play in the dirt, like the children we all are at heart. It is never too late for a happy childhood.

My mother always said of dirty children and their clothing: "It all comes out in the wash."

If you want something constructive to do with this directive: how about taking your children outside and planting a garden? Especially if you garden with nature, using organic methods, you can enhance your health in innumerable ways. It will also provide ample opportunity for exercise. Forget the fitness center.

Then, come harvest time, you will have lots of fresh fruits and vegetables which will further your goals for healing and rejuvenation. Finally, it will be much easier to get the dozen servings of fruits and vegetables that your body craves. You will find these too improve your immune system and your mood.

Talk about a win-win proposition.

Source:

(http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/6509781.st...)

About the author

Maryann Marshall is a fourth generation herbalist. She taught "Herbs and Your Health" classes for 25 years. Currently she is developing these classes into an online course. See http://www.grainsofhope.com for more information.
Eight years ago, her eldest son suffered a severe brain injury in an auto accident. His journey to wellness continues today. The family struggles through the government and medical labyrinth to assist his healing through prayer, nutrition, herbs, and other natural methods. Maryann is currently writing a book about the accident and its aftermath. You can read it in progress at: http://MiracleBoyArif.blogspot.com/ .
Her websites can be found at: http://www.agglom.com/agglom/36788/Maryann_M.... Also check http://www.mymoxxor.com/grainsofhope for the most powerful concentrate of all-natural omega-3's and antioxidants on the planet and http://www.youngliving.com/grainsofhope for therapeutic grade essential oils.