As March heralds National Nutrition Month, it urges us to delve deeper into the relationship between what we eat and our overall health. Laura Acosta, a dietitian and instructional associate professor at UF/IFAS, emphasises that dental health and nutrition should not be viewed in isolation; they are profoundly interconnected.
Approximately 3.5 billion people globally suffer from oral diseases, often tied to poor nutrition. The most prevalent issues, tooth decay and periodontal disease, significantly threaten the supportive structures of our teeth and can lead to painful gum recession, affecting one’s ability to eat properly.
Oral diseases can create a vicious cycle, resulting in tooth loss and intense pain, making it difficult to chew adequate nutrition. Chronic infections further exacerbate inflammation throughout the body, heightening the risk of malnutrition. This can lead individuals to resort to unhealthy, soft foods, perpetuating their oral and overall health issues.
Studies indicate that specific harmful bacteria, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis, are frequently found in those with major chronic conditions. Individuals suffering periodontal disease face an elevated risk for numerous health issues, including cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s, indicating a significant link between oral and systemic health.
Certain foods and drinks can wreak havoc on dental health. Starchy, refined carbs and sugary items cling to teeth, fostering an environment where pathogenic bacteria thrive. Additionally, acidic beverages can erode tooth enamel, paving the way for cavities.
In contrast, embracing a Mediterranean-inspired diet rich in whole foods can promote dental wellness. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, like fresh fruits, vegetables, and fatty fish, are particularly beneficial. However, even healthy snacks, if consumed too frequently, can expose teeth to acids and sugars, so it’s wise to strategically consume them during meals.
Moreover, green tea offers a potent anti-inflammatory compound called EGCG, which can help prevent gum recession and combat oral disease, presenting yet another ally for dental health.
UF/IFAS focuses on sharing knowledge to improve human life, providing scientific solutions across Florida’s agricultural and natural resource sectors through extensive research and dedicated faculty and students.
Laura Acosta from UF/IFAS discusses the crucial link between nutrition and dental health during National Nutrition Month. She highlights how poor oral health can hinder proper nutrition, leading to a cycle of health issues. Individual health risks rise with periodontal disease, necessitating dietary awareness and strategic food choices to promote overall wellness and prevent dental diseases.
In summary, nutrition and dental health are intricately linked, with each impacting the other significantly. Individuals must be aware of how their dietary choices influence both oral and systemic health to break harmful cycles. Emphasising whole foods while being mindful of snacking can enhance dental wellness, backed by the power of beneficial compounds found in nature, like those in green tea.
Original Source: southfloridahospitalnews.com
