“One who maintains cleanliness, keeps away diseases” -Sam Veda
Doorknobs, keyboards and pens are just some of the surfaces that are filled with germs. These are also everyday items that we are in constant contact with that could be potential sources of infections. Washing hands well and often is the most effective way to prevent germs from leading to infections and sickness. So, how exactly do germs spread? Knowing this could make us more aware of what we should avoid.
Through Direct Contact
Whether it is through touching contaminated surfaces, close proximity with someone who’s already infected or being in a crowd, the chances of contracting an illness through germs are high because we often take our surroundings for granted. Whenever possible, wash your hands with soap, scrubbing for at least 20 seconds. Alternatively, carry a small hand sanitiser with you at all times. These practices will help reduce the odds of getting sick caused by germy surfaces.
Through Food and Drinks
Food and drinks that are not prepared with care and cleanliness is another way of getting infected with all sorts of illnesses. Germs are easily transmitted from raw foods, such as chicken, to hands while preparing a meal. The good news is, cooking raw food kills germs. But the bad news is, we should avoid eating raw food as much as possible. Food such as salad and sashimi (unless prepared with care and hygiene) could potentially remain contaminated.
Through The Air
Harmful germs such as bacteria or deadly viruses that are airborne are especially dangerous. A cough or a sneeze by someone who carries a disease can infect many people around them. And if this repeats with those who are now carrying it, the number of infected individuals would rise at an exponential rate. With viruses such as Covid-19, the most effective way to curb its spread is to avoid contact with people outside our homes for as long as it’s necessary.
Practicing caution is one way to prevent from falling ill. But what’s equally effective is to maintain a strong immunity with daily consumption of probiotics. Seeing that 70% our immunity stems from our gut, getting our gut foundation right is vital to staying strong and healthy. By fortifying our gut with probiotics such as live Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus paracasei (both found in VITAGEN), we are effectively helping our body to build our own immunity to fight off invasions from harmful microorganisms. As the old adage goes, “prevention is better than cure”.