The Shocking About Germs!

The Shocking Truth About Germs!
How this awareness can save you a lot of headaches (literally) and keep you and your family healthy throughout the most contagious seasons
By Allison Janse
http://www.germfreaksguide.com/offer/index.cfm

While the hacking and sniffing season has begun, most people are not keenly aware of the simple things they can do to avoid catching whatever’s going around the office, and maintain great health while those around them are aching, coughing, and blowing their noses.

In The Germ Freak’s Guide to Outwitting Colds and Flu, coauthored with Dr. Charles Gerba, I compiled the most complete guide to the truths and myths about germs, so people can learn practical ways to avoid catching colds and the flu.

Here are a few helpful facts that may surprise you:

You could be wasting your money on antibacterial soap. Americans spent a staggering $540 million on antibacterial soaps and products in 2004. This is a hefty price tag and they don’t protect against colds and flu, which are caused by viruses. A recent study in the Annals of Internal Medicine showed that those who used antibacterial soaps instead of regular soap had the same numbers of colds, runny noses, sore throats and fevers. Even worse - if your hands get chaffed from overusing strong soaps, you make it easier for harmful bacteria to enter your skin. Better to seek out regular hand soap.

Hovering over the toilet seat isn’t necessary to avoid catching something. While 50% of Americans won’t sit on a public toilet seat, the risk of catching something from one is so minimal that you can go ahead and take a seat. Studies by microbiologist (and co-author of The Germ Freak’s Guide to Outwitting Cold and Flu) Charles Gerba, Ph.D., confirm that the faucet handle actually has more germs on it than the toilet seat.

Using the environmentally friendly air dryers in a public restroom may help the outside environment, but not yours. Dr. Gerba’s research showed using those dryers increases bacteria on your hands by 162%! Avoid these if you can.

Is Echinacea really helping? A recent trial from the University of Virginia provided compelling evidence that Echinacea does not prevent or alleviate symptoms of the common cold.

You’ll find hundreds of more tips in The Germ Freak’s Guide to Outwitting Colds and Flu, but hopefully these will get you started on the path to great health.
By Allison Janse