A recent meta -analysis published in Jama Pediatrics has revealed surprising fact: children attending the nursery have 32% less likely to develop type 1 diabetes compared to those who do not.This finding suggests that early exposure to a diverse social and microbial environment could play a crucial role in the development of the immune system and the reduction of the risk of this autoimmune disease.
The researchers, led by Susanna Tall, PHD, analyzed 22 observational studies between 1989 and 2022, with data from more than 100,000 children.Among the outstanding factors, they found that exposure to more microbes and a higher level of social interaction in nurseries could be key to explaining this association.
According to the hygiene hypothesis, less contact with microbes during childhood could weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of autoimmune diseases such as type 1 diabetes. This study reinforces this idea, showing how a more interactive and diverse environment can benefitchildren.
Main findings of the study
- Less risk: Children attending nurseries have 32% less likely to develop type 1 diabetes.
- Non -decisive age: risk reduction was consistent both in children who began the nursery between 0 and 2 years and between 3 and 5 years.
- ADDITIONAL FACTORS: Children in nurseries tend to:
- Have more physical activity.
- Consume more fruits and vegetables.
- Maintain a lower body mass index (BMI).
Why did the nursery could protect against type 1 diabetes
- Greater microbial exposure: Children who attend nurseries have between 2 and 3 times more likely to contract infections, which strengthens their immune system.
- Healthy habits: nurseries can promote greater physical activity and a more balanced diet, factors that have already been related to a lower risk of type 1 diabetes.
- Impact on weight: maintaining healthy weight during childhood could also contribute to reducing risk.
Although assistance to nurseries does not guarantee the prevention of type 1 diabetes, this study highlights how an environment that fosters socialization, microbial exposure and healthy habits can benefit the health of children in the long term.
Do you have children at home?
This finding underlines the importance of creating opportunities so that the little ones interact with other children, maintain a balanced diet and adopt active life habits from an early age.
Type 1 diabetes remains a complex and multifactorial disease, but studies like this help us better understand how small changes in the environment can make a big difference.
If you have doubts or want to share your experience as a father, mother or caregiver, encourage yourself to participate in the forum!💬
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