Clean
This book explores how our modern obsession with extreme hygiene may be harming our health. By examining the history and science behind cleaning, the author argues that we need to strike a balance between hygiene and microbe exposure for the sake of our microbiome and immune system.
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- Hamblin questions the necessity of excessive hygiene, particularly frequent washing, and how it affects our skin microbiome. He suggests that some common practices like daily showers might not be necessary and could even be harmful
- The book explores the evolution of hygiene standards throughout history, showing how cleaning practices have changed over time and have been influenced by cultural and social factors.
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💬 Quotes
"The human body is a vast ecosystem, teeming with microbes that play a vital role in our health."
"We are not simply the sum of our genes; we are also the sum of our microbes."
"The microbiome is not static; it is constantly changing in response to our environment and our lifestyle."
"The microbiome is a key player in our immune system, helping us to fight off infections."
"The microbiome is also involved in metabolism, digestion, and even mood."