Health Tip: Protect Your Body’s Bacteria

(HealthDay News) — Trillions of microscopic organisms live in and on your body. While that may be a scary thought, most of them are good for you, says the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Your body’s bacteria can help you digest food, protect against infection and maintain your reproductive health.

To protect your body’s bacteria, the NIH suggests:

  • Don’t pressure your doctor to give you an antibiotic. It may do more harm than good.
  • Know when to wash your hands, such as before eating or preparing food.
  • Don’t use antibacterial products you don’t need.
  • Don’t go overboard with hand sanitizers.
  • Experiment with skin moisturizers to see what’s best for you.