Which foods can support a healthy oral microbiome
A diet rich in vegetables, minimally processed plant foods and with limited added sugar may support a healthier balance of microorganisms in the mouth. MyJoyOnline reports on the role of nutrition for the oral microbiome.
About 700 species of bacteria live in the mouth, along with viruses, fungi and other microorganisms. Some of them are associated with healthy teeth and gums, while the bacterium Streptococcus mutans converts sugars into acids that gradually destroy tooth enamel and can cause cavities. At the same time, bacteria from the Veillonella, Actinomyces, Streptococcus and Neisseria groups may prevent harmful microorganisms from becoming established.
What to limit
Foods and drinks high in added sugar create favorable conditions for bacteria associated with cavities. The article also advises reducing the consumption of highly processed carbohydrates, which quickly break down into sugars in the mouth. These include white bread, crackers, cookies, pastries and pretzels.
Poor oral hygiene can contribute to the formation of pockets between the teeth and gums, where Porphyromonas gingivalis can multiply due to a lack of oxygen. It is associated with gum disease, as well as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease. At the same time, researchers emphasize that links between the oral microbiome and other health conditions are still being studied and do not mean that bacteria have a direct causal effect.
More current news is available on the UA.News Telegram channel Telegram.
Vegetables, tea and fermented foods
Leafy greens, including kale and spinach, as well as beets and radishes, contain nitrates. Some bacteria, including Neisseria, can convert them into nitrites, which are involved in the production of nitric oxide in the body. Nitric oxide helps regulate blood vessel function and blood pressure. Garlic contains allicin, a substance with antimicrobial properties that may act against bacteria associated with cavities and gum disease.
Plant foods also contain polyphenols. Studies cited by the publication indicate that tea polyphenols can suppress bacteria associated with cavities, gum disease and bad breath, as well as interfere with dental plaque formation. Dark berries, cranberry juice and honey also contain polyphenols. A small study involving nine people recorded changes in bacterial communities after five days of consuming Grana Padano cheese. According to a review of studies, kefir may suppress some oral pathogens and prevent them from forming a biofilm.
Gaetano Isola, a professor of periodontology at the University of Catania, noted that there is no single “superfood” for oral health. Overall dietary patterns, proper oral hygiene and regular dental care remain more important.
