There is considerable evidence that taking care of your gums protects you from heart disease. It has to do with the fact that bacteria in your mouth can enter your bloodstream and trigger an inflammatory process that causes deposits of plaque to narrow artery walls, thus increasing your risk of heart attack and stroke.
But that’s not the only reason to make regular visits to the dentist. A surprising study in The Journal of the National Cancer Institute indicates that having healthy gums can also dramatically lower the risk of one of the deadliest cancers.
Researchers from the Harvard School of Public Health found that the men with periodontal disease who participated in the study had a 63% higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer than the men with healthy teeth and gums. They concluded that inflammation was the primary cause.
You can keep your gums healthy by taking three easy steps: 1. Visit your dentist for a thorough cleaning every six months, 2. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day, 3. Take these antioxidants to quench oxidation:
• Vitamin C. This high-powered antioxidant reduces the inflammation associated with gingivitis. It also repairs the connective tissues of your gums. Take 500 mg twice a day.
• CoQ10. Not just a “heart miracle” nutrient, CoQ10 is capable of reversing gum disease too. For preventing gum disease, I recommend 60 mg once a day. I’ve seen this help repair visibly damaged gum tissue. For added heart disease protection, increase to 100 mg a day.
• Zinc. As an essential mineral, zinc penetrates plaque on your teeth and oxidizes anaerobic bacteria, resulting in less plaque formation. Take 30 mg daily.
• Vitamin E. This versatile antioxidant can help repair damaged gum tissue. Take 400 IUs daily.