Quote:
Originally Posted by NullNix
... we don't get parasitic worms any more, and this component of our immune system gets hypersensitized and triggers on the wrong sort of multicellular eukaryote: pollen, rather than worms. This also explains why giving yourself tapeworms can often cure allergies, though frankly I prefer my pollen filter. ...
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Interesting, and thanks for the informative post! I read awhile back (too lazy to find a link now, before my morning coffee) that immune systems need exercise to be effective, and they become aggressive bullies, attacking their own neighbors when they get out of shape (i.e. autoimmune attacks).
Even for cancer. In areas with high natural radiation, there is a high correspondence with longevity (because almost no cancer even at their "longest in the world" typical lifespan). Studies suggest it is the constant radiation exposure that exercises their immune systems to be much more effective at eliminating pre-cancer cells. I will post a link here if I find one...
So it appears that the "moderation in all things" even applies to ionizing radiation. Too much or too little are both bad. Just like germs. There is a high correspondence between autoimmune diseases and being raised in a "too clean" environment. Not too mention MRSA in American hospitals. Perhaps we would be healthier raised with dirt floors? Well, other than the parasite problem that often accompanies such living conditions. But eating dirt should perhaps NOT be discouraged in children, eh? Eating food pulled fresh out of the ground too, should we wash it or not (removing government food safety warnings from the equations).