hygiene hypothesis

The hygiene hypothesis suggests that a lack of exposure to germs and infections in early childhood can lead to an increase in allergic diseases and autoimmune conditions. This is because the immune system may not develop properly without sufficient germs to interact with. Children raised in overly clean environments or with fewer siblings may have a higher risk of conditions like asthma and allergies. Essentially, moderate exposure to microbes helps train the immune system, preparing it to distinguish between harmful pathogens and harmless substances.