5 Hygiene myths that are actually good for you

culled from:pulse.ng

As it turns out, too clean can be a problem.

A growing body of research on hygiene shows that having some germs in your life is a good thing.

For years, we've focused on killing nasty bacteria to prevent infection and illness, but scientists are now telling us that we should be working just as hard to create a healthy "microbiome" by surrounding ourselves with beneficial bugs.

These bacteria can powerfully impact your brain and immune health, Charles Raison, M.D., professor of psychiatry at the University of Arizona's College of Medicine.

Bacteria are powerful allies, helping us with digestion, boosting our immune systems and even improving our mood.

We will prove that some bad habits are really good.

So here are five "unhealthy" habits that are actually good for you.

Doggie love

Not only is boding with your dog great for relieving stress, but a Burkeley study shows that also petting your dog lowers your blood pressure and reduces stress.

According to an ongoing University of Arizona study, these canine kisses are beneficial too.

Dr Raison explains that the dog works as a furry probiotic, helping build healthy bacteria colonies in the human owner.

Skip the hand sanitisers

Although anti-bacterial soaps and gels make you feel a lot better about using public bathrooms, they might actually be doing more harm than good.

According to a recent study by researchers in Clinical Infectious Diseases, these products actually destroy the bad bugs but they also wipe out all your good bacteria and may even contribute to the growing problem of antibiotic resistance.

Chemical Kitchen Scrubs

According to a study from the University of Akansas, Study Author and Microbiologist, Dr Kristen Gibson Ph.D says, "situations like handling raw meat or caring for the sick requires disinfectants but for everything else, plain water is fine".

In addition, she recommends using a microfiber clothe since they have been proven to pick up bacteria and viruses and prevent them from spreading to other surfaces.

Sharing foods with friends

Not only does sharing food with friends help you cut down on calories, it can also be good for your immune system.

Stanford researchers have found out that sharing a little saliva with healthy friends and family members can help you stock up on good bugs.

Brushing after every meal

Brushing your teeth too often or vigorously can actually harm your teeth by eroding the enamel and irritating your gums, says American Dental Association.

According to a 2012 study from the University of Chicago, brushing your teeth right causes even worse dental damage.

Apparently, when you take acidic foods, the acid stays on your teeth and can actually eat at your enamels too.

Brushing right away drives the acid deeper into your teeth instead of removing it. The Researchers recommend waiting 30-60 minutes after eating before brushing of any sort can be considered.