If you’ve been reading the news, you’ve probably seen the results of a recent study by the National Academy of Science that falls under such headlines as “Taking showers can make you ill‘” or “Study: Showerheads may deliver blast of bacteria”

While this study found interesting information and confirmed that yes, bacteria live in the warm, moist areas that are known as showerheads, I think the spin on the study found in these articles encourages modern day germ phobia. 

Some exposure to dirt and bacteria (if your immune system is healthy) is actually good because it keeps the immune system sharp and focused.  If you are never exposed to dirt or bacteria then it may put you at higher risk for your immune system to either turn inward (autoimmune disease) or become hyperactive and lead to issues such as allergies.

Here is a link to a New York Times article which discusses the “hygiene hypothesis” – the theory that “dirt is good” and that living in an overly hygienic environment may put people at risk for immune system disorders such as allergies and autoimmune disease.  

With all that said, it is good to be aware of the results of the showerhead study – especially if your immune system is compromised.  In any case, I think the best way to make sure you’re not being unnecessarily exposed to harmful bacteria from a showerhead is to either keep it clean (if you’re at home) or if you are showering at a public place such as a gym, just turn the water on and let it run for a few seconds before you step into the water. I would think most people would do this anyway to get the temperature right except for the very few who don’t care if the water is freezing at first.  Of course, some people believe that cold showers are good for the immune system, but that’s a whole different blog!

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