People exposed to a greater variety of microorganisms have a lower incidence of Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers from the University of Cambridge have found that better hygiene in wealthy nations is a significant factor in why Alzheimer’s disease is so much more common there. There are several known risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease, including high sugar diets and genetics. One significant risk factor is changes in immune system function. Higher levels of inflammation in the body are strongly linked with greater Alzheimer’s incidence; particularly inflammation in the gut. This makes sense since approximately 80 percent of your immune system is located in your gut. In the paper, the researchers stated “Exposure to microorganisms is critical for the regulation of the immune system. Since increasing global urbanisation beginning at the turn of the 19th century, the populations of many of the world’s wealthier nations have increasingly very little exposure to the so-called ‘friendly’ microbes which “stimulate” the immune system - due to diminishing contact with animals, feces and soil.” It is certainly true that people living in cities get a lot less exposure to dirt than people who live on farms. They also tend to suffer with more allergies because their immune system becomes unbalanced. How can we take advantage of this finding while maintaining standards of personal hygiene? Clearly some types of microorganisms are capable of causing serious diseases, or a case of gastroenteritis, so you don’t want to pick up a harmful bug. We do know that dog owners tend to have healthier immune systems and less allergic disease because they have a more diverse microbiome. Essentially you share good bugs with your dog! Another way of increasing microbial diversity is by regularly consuming a probiotic or fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, miso or kim chi. The good bugs they contain are wonderful for improving and balancing immune health. Read more