| DAY 7 OF 10 Get dirty The world is covered in microbes. Before you panic and pull out the antibacterial wipes, we want you to know that most of these bacteria are harmless and even beneficial for your health. Sure, it's not wise to go around licking doorknobs or eating undercooked meat. But most of us could benefit from a little less "cleanliness." Researchers believe that pets expose kids to a wide variety of microbes, which help train their immune system for what's a threat and what would be an overreaction or unnecessary allergic response (1, 2, 3). Children who grow up with dogs or cats have lower rates of asthma (3). Pets bring in helpful microbes from the outside and share them with the whole household (4). Studies have shown that growing up in a microbe-rich environment, like a traditional farm, may foster diversity in the gut microbiome and lead to a healthy immune system (5, 6). People who grew up in a city have less diverse gut microbiota, likely because they interact with nature less frequently and less intimately (5, 7). This is why today's oh-so grueling task is to play with a furry friend or get a little dirty. Even though most people in the United States live in cities, you don't have to go far to get your dose of dirt. Soil is teeming with microbes. There's some evidence that soil biodiversity is related to human microbiota (5). Tend your garden, collect rocks with your child, lie in the grass — the options are endless. Plus, both being outside and spending time with a pet can be relaxing and help relieve stress, which, as you know from day 4, is important for a healthy gut. As if you needed another reason to enjoy either of those things! Until tomorrow,
The Healthline Team | 
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