Why Hand Sanitizer Isn’t Always the Best Choice Before Meals: Don’t Eat Right After Sanitizer!
We’ve all become accustomed to grabbing at hand sanitizer to ward off germs particularly before meals. But would you believe that applying it just before preparing food may not be the best plan? Sanitizers kill germs, but they can also deposit chemicals you don’t need in your mouth. That’s why you may want to forego the sanitizer and simply wash your hands instead.
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Chemical Residue on Your Hands: Don’t Eat Right After Sanitizer!
Hand sanitizers hold alcohol and other chemical additives that destroy bacteria and viruses. But if you don’t allow your hands to fully dry, the chemicals will transfer to your food and hence to your body. A little won’t hurt, but why take the chance?
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Can Disrupt Good Gut Bacteria
Our bodies require some bacteria to remain healthy particularly in our stomach. Excessive use of sanitizers (particularly prior to eating) can kill good bacteria as well as bad bacteria, compromising your natural defenses in the long run.
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Dry, Cracked Skin = More Germs
Regular sanitizing dehydrates your skin, which creates minuscule cracks. These cracks can trap even more germs, so your hands end up being dirtier in the long run. Healthy, moisturized skin can repel germs better!
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Does Not Remove Grease or Dirt: Don’t Eat Right After Sanitizer!
Hand sanitizer eliminates germs but does not remove dirt, grease, or chemicals like soap and water. If your hands are dirty, sanitizer will not assist—you will end up spreading germs around.
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Soap & Water Is Still the Best Option
The CDC suggests washing hands with soap and water before meals as often as possible. It cleans more effectively off all types of germs, dirt, and residues without depositing chemicals.
When Do You Use Sanitizer?
If you’re out and can’t use soap and water, sanitizer is still a suitable second best. Just ensure:
✔ At least 60% alcohol
✔ Rub it in till your hands are dry before handling food
Conclusion: Sanitizer is wonderful in an emergency, but soap and water is the better option before meals. If you can use sanitizer, make sure to let it dry completely and don’t make it a habit. Your gut (and skin) will appreciate it!
NOTE: – IT IS ALWAYS RECOMMENDED TO CONSULT YOUR HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL. ALL DATA SHARED HERE ARE FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.
