Gut check, day 10: Throw out antibacterials

Our ferocious cleaning is killing beneficial bacteria along with the bad stuff.

DAY 10 OF 10 Throw out antibacterials Cleanliness may be a virtue, but in the last 30 years or so, researchers have begun to realize that we can be too clean. Our ferocious cleaning and embrace of antibacterial agents has killed bacteria, removing the beneficial ones, too, and leaving many places too sterile to be healthy (1).  As we learned on day 7, exposure to microbes is essential for robust microbiota both inside your gut and on your skin. Instead of ensuring we're constantly replenishing our beneficial strains, our overuse of antibacterials may be changing the bacteria in our guts and exposing us to dangerous microbes. Evidence is stacking up that antibacterial products are causing an alarming rise of resistant bacteria. These chemicals aim to wipe out all microbes, but instead they leave behind unaffected bacteria that grow and continue to resist the chemical treatment.  Antibiotic resistance has doubled in the last 20 years. Standard treatments have already begun to fail for common bacterial infections, like UTIs. In addition to only taking antibiotics when absolutely necessary (and finishing the regimen, even when you feel better), the products you use can help prevent the rise of these superbugs. How do you avoid getting sick and protect your microbiome? Go old school. Gentle soap and water are the only tools you need to remove germs and harmful bacteria from your body and home. Stop using personal care products with added antibacterials like Triclosan, including toothpastes and mouthwashes, hand sanitizer gels, and body soaps.  Limit your use of soap when washing your face or body (just not your hands — proper handwashing is key to avoiding getting sick!) and stop using face and body wipes to keep beneficial bacteria in place. Avoid household products that have antibacterial agents added, including certain cutting boards, mattress pads, toys, and building materials, like flooring and paint. Use castile soap or other gentle, eco-friendly cleaners, like vinegar and baking soda, around the house instead of bleach and other harsh cleaners (2). Replace dish soap and dishwasher tablets that contain Triclosan, bleach, or other antibacterial agents with an antibacterial-free version (3). Only use antibacterial body care products and home cleaners when deemed medically necessary by your doctor. Congratulations! You made it through the challenge. Your gut microbiome is already healthier. By keeping up these habits, you'll reap the benefits of better digestion and improved immunity. Please share with us how you did, and we'll use your feedback to help build out more challenges. We can't wait to hear from you! Yours in wellness, The Healthline Team Further Reading Here's How Bad Antibiotic Resistance Has Gotten Over the Past 20 Years READ ON How Do Antibiotics Work? READ ON

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