Science & Technology

Nail-biters may experience fewer allergies

By T.K. Randall
July 12, 2016 ·  9 comments

Have you ever bitten your nails ? Image Credit: CC BY-SA 2.0 D. Sharon Pruitt Most people consider nail-biting to be an annoying habit, but according to the results of a lengthy new study conducted in New Zealand, chewing on your nails or even sucking your thumb in your younger years can serve to reduce the likelihood of developing allergies later in life.

The findings seem to add credence to what is known as the 'hygiene hypothesis' which puts forward the notion that exposure to some germs as a child can help to strengthen the immune system.Allergic reactions to dust mites and household pets seemed to be reduced the most however there were no reported improvements in the chances of developing asthma or hay-fever.

"While we don't recommend that these habits should be encouraged, there does appear to be a positive side to these habits," said Co-researcher Prof Malcolm Sears.

Source: BBC News | Comments (9)

Tags: Allergies, Nails