by Natalie Santalucia, Nutritionist
We know that what we put into our bodies determines our health, but did you know that good oral health is important to maintain overall body health? In particular disease-free gums are necessary for overall body health.
Many studies show the increased risk of poor oral hygiene habits and link poor oral health to cardiovascular disease, heart disease and stroke. As well as type 2 diabetes and digestive disorders such as IBS and bowel inflammation.
Bacteria occurs naturally in our mouths but poses a problem when we don’t remove food remnants after we eat. This can lead to a build-up of plaque (a coating of sugar, bacteria and mouth debris) which sticks to teeth and creates acids that dissolve the calcium in our teeth allowing decay to set in. If the plaque continues to grow it disrupts the gum line which increases the risk of bacterial infection and leads to gingivitis with sore, red, swollen bleeding gums. As well as being the early stage of periodontal disease and possible tooth loss, this poses a risk to bodily health because bacteria can enter through the damaged gums into our bloodstream. The resulting inflammation in the blood vessels increases the likelihood of clots causing a stroke or heart attack.
What to eat to maintain strong healthy teeth and gums
Eat a high-fibre diet rich in fresh whole foods, in as close to their natural state as possible, preferably organic. Crunching on raw vegetables and fruits like carrots and apples exercises the jaw, produces saliva to keep the teeth clean and aids digestion and most importantly provides the vitamins and minerals needed for strong teeth.
Eat a high-fibre diet rich in fresh whole foods, in as close to their natural state as possible, preferably organic. Crunching on raw vegetables and fruits like carrots and apples exercises the jaw, produces saliva to keep the teeth clean and aids digestion and most importantly provides the vitamins and minerals needed for strong teeth.
Bone broths are supportive to re-mineralise teeth. Think soups and stews and slow cooker meals that include meat on the bone. Eating the bones of fish such as sardines, mackerel and anchovies is also beneficial.
Instead of sugar, use Xylitol sweetener (natural sugar from corn and birch trees) as it prevents tooth decay.
Chewing gum after meals is beneficial to produce saliva to protect teeth. Just make sure you choose a brand that doesn’t contain aspartame (code 950, 951). Xylitol sweetened chewing gums are available in your health food shop.
Oil Pulling or Kavala Gandoosha
Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practise of oral cleansing to reduce mouth bacteria, prevent cavities and oral disease and whiten teeth. It’s also claimed to aid sinusitis, headache, jaw and neck pain and eliminate disease in the body.
Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practise of oral cleansing to reduce mouth bacteria, prevent cavities and oral disease and whiten teeth. It’s also claimed to aid sinusitis, headache, jaw and neck pain and eliminate disease in the body.
Using coconut oil for this practice is particularly recommended due to its antibacterial and cleansing properties .
Traditionally, this is done first thing in the morning for about 20 minutes, though even a couple of minutes is beneficial. It can also be done after breakfast or as a mouth wash prior to brushing.
Tongue scraping
Another tradition that is helpful in eliminating harmful bacteria is tongue scraping. After brushing simply take a dedicated teaspoon and gently scrape down the length of the tongue several times to remove toothpaste build up and bacteria. Rinse thoroughly.
Another tradition that is helpful in eliminating harmful bacteria is tongue scraping. After brushing simply take a dedicated teaspoon and gently scrape down the length of the tongue several times to remove toothpaste build up and bacteria. Rinse thoroughly.
Whiten teeth naturally
• Strawberries eaten and rubbed on teeth can remove stains due to the malic acid, though take care as this can erode the tooth enamel
• Banana skin rubbed on teeth is said to whiten teeth over time
• Baking soda can clean and whiten teeth but as it is a little abrasive do brush gently or reserve as a special once a week ritual
• Lemon juice and vinegar again may clean teeth but can damage enamel
Remember also that what we say contributes to our oral health, so speak words of loving kindness and definitely smile often.
Resource: healthylife.net.au
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