Worms to the rescue!

For some time, researchers have talked about the hygiene hypothesis: the idea that children growing up under too sanitary conditions are more likely to develop allergies and autoimmune diseases. The theory is that exposure to bacteria and other microorganisms during childhood helps the immune system to develop properly.

Some scientists are now even going a step further. Some new data suggest that parasitic worms are one of the most important elements in fine tuning the human immune system:

Dr. Weinstock goes even further. “Children should be allowed to go barefoot in the dirt, play in the dirt, and not have to wash their hands when they come in to eat,” he said. He and Dr. Elliott pointed out that children who grow up on farms and are frequently exposed to worms and other organisms from farm animals are much less likely to develop allergies and autoimmune diseases.

Also helpful, he said, is to “let kids have two dogs and a cat,” which will expose them to intestinal worms that can promote a healthy immune system.