Friday Health specials with ATV Today Lifestyle…
Experts reveal that focusing on bathroom habits is crucial for maintaining good hygiene and health. Plumbworld, a bathroom and kitchen expert, highlights five less commonly known bathroom habits that could pose serious health risks if not addressed.
By understanding the significance of these habits and taking steps to modify them, individuals can significantly reduce their health risks and improve their overall well-being.
Ignoring Proper Handwashing Techniques: Proper handwashing involves scrubbing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, ensuring all surfaces of the hands are cleaned, including the backs of the hands, between the fingers, and under the nails. Skipping this step or not doing it properly can lead to the transmission of pathogens such as E. coli, norovirus, and the flu virus, contributing to a variety of health issues ranging from mild gastrointestinal distress to more severe infections. Additionally, improper handwashing can facilitate the spread of resistant bacteria, posing a broader public health risk.
Overuse of Cleansing Products: The trend towards using multiple cleansing products, including those with antibacterial properties, for personal hygiene, can disrupt the skin’s natural barrier and vaginal flora. This disruption can lead to conditions such as bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections by upsetting the balance between good and bad bacteria. For the skin, excessive use of harsh soaps can strip away natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and atopic dermatitis. It’s important to choose mild, pH-balanced products and to use them sparingly to maintain the health of the skin and mucous membranes.
Holding in Urine Frequently: Habitually postponing urination can cause the bladder to overstretch and weaken, reducing its efficiency in emptying completely during urination. This can create an environment where bacteria can grow, increasing the risk of urinary tract infections. Over time, chronic urinary retention can lead to more serious complications, including bladder stones, chronic kidney disease, and urinary incontinence. Listening to your body’s signals and urinating when needed is crucial for maintaining proper bladder health.
Using Your Mobile Phone: Mobile phones are often taken into the bathroom but rarely cleaned or disinfected appropriately, making them a significant source of microbial contamination. These devices can carry pathogens that are easily transferred to your face and mouth, increasing the risk of infections. Studies have found that phones can harbour a variety of germs, including those resistant to antibiotics. To minimise risk, it’s advisable to clean your phone regularly with alcohol-based wipes and avoid using it in the bathroom altogether.
Ignoring Proper Ventilation: A bathroom’s warm and humid environment is ideal for the growth of mould and mildew, which can produce allergens and irritants. Prolonged exposure to these substances can lead to respiratory problems, allergies, and asthma attacks, especially in individuals with pre-existing conditions. Effective ventilation helps reduce moisture levels, limiting the growth of mould and protecting the respiratory health of the household. Ensuring that exhaust fans are used during and after showers and baths and keeping windows open when possible are good practices for maintaining a healthy bathroom environment.
A spokesperson from Plumbworld:
“Adjusting our bathroom habits can significantly impact our overall health, and there are straightforward yet effective steps we can take. Opt for soaps and personal care products free from harsh chemicals and fragrances. These gentler alternatives are kinder to your skin and less likely to disrupt the body’s natural balance. This simple switch benefits your skin and contributes positively to environmental health.
“Cleaning your toothbrush holder regularly is another small but crucial step in maintaining bathroom hygiene. It’s an often-overlooked item that can harbour bacteria. And consider making your bathroom visits a tech-free time. By leaving your phone behind, you not only reduce the spread of germs but also give yourself a moment of unplugged tranquillity.”
