Do Antibacterial Soaps Work?

antibacterial soapBy the looks of most bathrooms in this country these days, just about everyone is using antibacterial soaps. In fact, it takes some effort to find soap that isn’t antibacterial.

Advertising teaches us to fear germs. You sell more antibacterial soap that way. It’s even marketed as a preventive measure against colds and flu. Only problem is colds and flu are viral and anti-bacterial products have no effect. The truth is, antibacterial soaps contain harmful carcinogens, are no more effective in killing germs than regular soap and are probably responsible for breeding stronger, more resistant strains of bacteria.

The U.S. Center for Disease Control agrees. It recommends that the most effective way to reduce the spread of infectious disease is washing our hands. But anti-bacterial soaps are not necessary. Neither is scalding hot water, since our hands can’t withstand the temperatures necessary to kill germs with heat.

Experts recommend that you use a combination of soap and comfortably warm water. Rub all surfaces of the hands for at least 20 seconds, especially under your fingernails. The soap and scrubbing action, along with the slippery surface created by the soap, do the trick.

Dr. Mike Asks some important questions of interest to Austin residents - Chiropractor Austin Dr. Mike Asks...

Why are frequent visits advised when starting chiropractic care?
Consistent visits at the beginning of your chiropractic care help create the momentum necessary to correct and retrain unhealthy spinal patterns. Later, Austin patients find that continued care on a less frequent visit schedule can help preserve their progress and avoid a relapse.
Is a muscle spasm a cause or an effect?
With the knee-jerk use of muscle relaxers, you'd think it was a cause. But it's an effect. Chiropractors know that bones don't move unless muscles move them. And muscles don't contract unless commanded by the nervous system. That's why your nervous system is the focus of our Austin chiropractic practice.