In recent years, researchers have connected rising allergy rates in children to declining microbial diversity. Babies born via C-section, fed formula, or exposed to antibiotics early in life tend to have different gut bugs than those delivered vaginally, breastfed, or raised with regular exposure to dirt, animals, and other kids.

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“It’s really the early microbial exposures that set the immune tone for allergies,” says Minneapolis-based naturopathic doctor Sara Jean Barrett, ND.

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This idea is the central tenet of the hygiene hypothesis, which posits that modern life is a little too sterile: Without regular encounters with microbes, the immune system doesn’t get the stimulation it needs to mature properly. (Learn why a little exposure to germs and viruses is good for your health at “Why Some Germs Are Good for Immunity.”)

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A similar theory, the “old friends” ­hypothesis, suggests that humans evolved in regular contact with certain microbes from soil, animals, and other people. When we lose those “old friends,” the immune system can misfire.

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Some encouraging studies suggest that restoring beneficial bugs through diet, outdoor exposure, or even specific probiotics may help reduce the risk of ­developing allergies, especially early in life.

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A study published in Science Advances in 2020 compared the gut microbiomes of children who spent four weeks playing in standard urban daycare centers with those of children who played in daycares with more green space. The exposure to green space corresponded to greater microbial diversity and other improvements in immune health.

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The Mighty Microbiome

Your gut microbiome affects much more than digestion: It has an impact on your immune resilience, hormonal health, and more. Learn more at “9 Ways the Gut Microbiome Influences Health,” from which this article was excerpted.

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This article was originally written by Mo Perry, contributing editor for Experience Life, for Experience Life.