New research shows that there is a link between gum disease and heart health.

Flossing and a thorough dental hygiene routine could be the difference between life and death as we all get older… Too dramatic? Here’s the thing:

 

• Bacteria leads straight to the heart.

Gum disease is a bacterial infection and one theory is that because the gums are very vascular (full of blood vessels) gum disease can cause bacteria to easily enter the bloodstream that leads straight to the heart where they can attach to the fatty deposits in the heart blood vessels. This condition can cause blood clots and may lead to heart attacks.

• Inflammation.

Another factor is inflammation, gum disease can promote over all inflammation through the entire body and the heart surgeon Dr. Dwight Lundell is famous for speaking out about this.

 

Here are 3 immediate steps other than regular visits to the dentist to take control of your gum health:

 

• Eliminate processed sugar and refined carbohydrates:

Sugar acidifies the mouth and promotes bacterial growth. This massively increases the chances of gum disease and inflammation.

• Eat more vegetables

Not only will this ensure that you increase nutrients that help build strong healthy teeth and gums but increasing vegetable intake will decrease any acidity from bad foods.

• Flossing

We all know this but how many people actually do it is a different story! Flossing hands down as dentists agree is one of the top ways to prevent gum disease. Once a day is enough.

Happy chewing

Rupert Hambly

 

Ref. http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/features/periodontal-disease-heart-health#1