A new study finds that the Mediterranean diet, renowned for its health benefits, may improve oral health by reducing the risk of gum disease.
Researchers at King’s College London found that people who followed a Mediterranean diet rich in vegetables, fruit, legumes, and olive oil had lower levels of inflammatory markers, such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and C-reactive protein (CRP), compared to those who consumed a high amount of red meat.
Gum disease, a condition associated with chronic inflammation, has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and even premature birth.
The study, published in the Journal of Periodontology, included 195 hospitalized patients in the United Kingdom who underwent dental exams, blood tests, and dietary surveys.
“Our results suggest that a balanced Mediterranean diet may reduce gum disease and systemic inflammation,” said Giuseppe Mainas, one of the study’s authors.
This study further supports the Mediterranean diet’s benefits for heart health, sleep, mental health, and even cancer risk.
Mainas also noted that given the clear link between diet, inflammation, and gum health, healthcare providers should consider dietary factors when treating patients with gum disease. Gum disease affects approximately 1 billion people worldwide, with poor oral hygiene and smoking being major risk factors. Severe gum disease can lead to pain, bad breath, and loose teeth.
Co-author Luigi Nibali emphasized that while further research is needed to develop personalized gum health management strategies, the findings provide new evidence for the role of a balanced diet in maintaining good oral health.
