Flossing Fix

by: AndreaDow
Total views: 336
Word Count: 216

Wednesday, June 25th

Did you know that flossing your teeth can help save your life? Gum disease, which can result from poor dental hygiene, can increase a person's risk for both heart attack and stroke. If you don't floss on a regular basis, bacteria build-up from the mouth can enter the bloodstream, cause inflammation in the arteries and increase your risk of heart disease. I was surprised to read that periodontal disease affects one in three American adults. Then again, how many of you tell the truth when your dentist asks if you floss regularly?

What can you do besides floss and brush your teeth to prevent periodontal disease? Eat yogurt! According to EatingWell Magazine probiotics found in yogurt can help prevent gum disease by fighting off the "unfriendly" bacteria in the mouth. A study in Japan analyzed the diets of 1,000 adults and those consuming high levels of dairy products, specifically yogurt and yogurt-type drinks, had the healthiest gums. Probiotics can be found in yogurt and kefir (fermented milk). Unfortunately, it is unclear how much dairy/probiotics an individual would need to combat bacteria. What is clear is that yogurt can help strengthen your bones and is full of nutrients. If you enjoy yogurt, keep it up to keep your tummy and your mouth healthy!

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