An incurable disease begins in the gums. Scientists: These foods in the diet protect
- The Mediterranean diet lowers levels of inflammatory markers such as IL-6 and CRP, which supports gum health and reduces the risk of chronic disease.
- Higher consumption of vegetables, fruits, legumes and olive oil correlates with better periodontal health and lower inflammation in the body.
- A holistic approach to health that includes diet, oral hygiene and physical activity can significantly support the prevention of heart disease, diabetes and dementia.
Following a Mediterranean diet may reduce the risk of gum disease and, consequently, inflammation leading to chronic diseases and dementia, reports the Journal of Periodontology.
The Mediterranean diet is a dietary model typical of the inhabitants of the Mediterranean basin.
It is based on high consumption of:
- fresh vegetables,
- fruit,
- whole grain products,
- nuts,
- seeds,
- legumes
- fish, rich in omega-3 fatty acids,
- the main source of fat is olive oil.
Fats other than olive oil, such as butter, are consumed infrequently, and sugar and refined products are consumed only on special occasions. Consumption of eggs, dairy, and poultry is significantly lower than in the traditional Western diet.
The diet is also characterized by a low consumption of red meat and processed foods ; it is rich in dietary fiber, antioxidants and unsaturated fatty acids, which have a positive effect on health, especially the circulatory system and metabolism.
Social interaction with friends and family during meals, eating your favorite foods, and physical exercise are all fundamental to the Mediterranean eating style.
Previous studies have shown that the Mediterranean diet can reduce the risk of diabetes, high cholesterol, dementia, depression, and breast cancer, among other conditions . It has also been linked to stronger bones and a healthier heart.
It has long been known that the health of periodontium or gums is linked to cardiovascular disease—and vice versa. People with periodontal disease also typically have inflammatory markers in their blood.
Inflammation can cause narrowing, weakening, or even blockage of blood vessels, which can lead to damage to the kidneys, lungs, liver, or brain (vascular dementia is the second most common form of cognitive decline after Alzheimer's disease).
Inflammation overstimulates the immune system, which can spiral out of control and attack the heart and other organs . Chronic inflammation also promotes insulin resistance and cellular dysfunction, which can lead to type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease.
The new study, conducted by researchers at King's College London, involved 200 people enrolled in the King's College London Oral, Dental and Craniofacial Biobank program. They underwent dental examinations, had blood samples taken, and were asked about their diet using questionnaires.
People who ate a diet significantly different from the Mediterranean diet and consumed more red meat had more severe periodontal disease and higher levels of circulating inflammatory markers, such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and C-reactive protein (CRP). Levels of these markers increase with trauma or inflammation anywhere in the body.
Higher consumption of vegetables, legumes, and dairy products was associated with lower C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. Favorable trends were also observed for fruits and olive oil.
Previous studies have shown that chewing leafy and cruciferous green vegetables, root vegetables, apples, and citrus fruits—all key components of the Mediterranean diet—can promote healthy teeth and gums.
These products provide nutrients and stimulate saliva production, which affects the bacterial population in the mouth and reduces overall inflammation.
"We observed that there may be a relationship between the severity of periodontal disease, diet, and inflammation. These aspects should be considered holistically when assessing periodontitis treatment in patients. Our study provides an important starting point that could lead to further research to better understand the relationship between dietary intake and gum disease," said Dr. Giuseppe Mainas, the study's first author.
There is growing evidence of the role that a balanced diet can play in maintaining periodontal health.
"Our research shows the potential impact of a diet rich in nutrients and plant foods on improving gum health. However, further research is needed to develop personalized approaches to help people manage their gum health," added Professor Luigi Nibali, lead author and professor of periodontology at King's College London.
Copyrighted material - reprint rules are specified in the regulations .
rynekzdrowia
