For many people, once they pass a certain age, their metabolism slows down, and they begin gaining fat and pounds quickly. They begin to focus on losing the extra pounds and finding the perfect weight loss routine. However, there are many factors that affect your ability to lose weight, and oral hygiene is one of them.
Good oral hygiene requires that you brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day and preferably after each meal to eliminate bacteria that can lead to more serious oral problems. It also includes avoiding certain foods that can lead to tooth decay, as well as weight gain.
The ADA and CDC are sharing that the best way to achieve a healthy mouth and body is to have the two work together. “Physicians are taking a more holistic approach to their patients’ overall health,” says Dr. Sally Cram, who is an advisor for the American Dental Health Association. She also explains that those who do not take care of their oral health are 40 per cent more likely to suffer from another serious health condition such as chronic problems.
There have been multiple studies that have noted the connection betweengood oral hygiene and weight loss. It may be time for the two to come together as one combined routine. The following ideas show some of the benefits of approaching weight loss through your oral hygiene.
1. Good oral hygiene requires avoiding unhealthy foods.
In general, good oral hygiene mandates that foods high in sugars and fats be consumed only in moderation. Otherwise, they can lead to tooth decay and gum problems. Those who are serious about keeping their teeth stain-free and healthy will avoid foods like sweets, pasta, bread, potatoes, coffee, sugary drinks and soda. Each of these foods can also lead to considerable weight gain when consumed excessively.
2. Brushing your teeth can stem cravings.
The reason dentists tell you to brush your teeth after every meal goes beyond eliminating bacteria and enamel-eating sugars. It also helps to reduce cravings for these foods. The mint from the toothpaste sends signals to the brain that make the thought of eating sugary and starchy foods repulsive because the mint counteracts their flavour. Brushing your teeth is a long-used trick to stem cravings when trying to achieve weight loss.
3. Erasing oral bacteria can eliminate certain health complications.
There are more bacteria in the mouth than most people like to think about. The harmful bacteria in your body can complicate serious health conditions including stroke, heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes. These health conditions make weight loss extremely challenging because many of the symptoms include weight gain, and medications can also contribute to weight issues. You have a better chance of losing weight when you are free from chronic health problems.
4. When you take care of your teeth, you reduce high-caloric alcohol consumption.
Drinking alcohol in excess can lead to a chronic dry mouth, which is a breeding ground for bacteria. It can also stain the teeth and lead to gum disease. If you are avoiding alcohol for the sake of your teeth, you will also lose weight, since drinks are loaded with empty calories and sugars that pack on the pounds.
For those looking to achieve weight loss, this may be part of the solution. Engaging in regular brushing habits and good oral hygiene routines are some of the things you can do to fight obesity. Approaching weight loss from a holistic perspective can improve your health and help you achieve your goals faster. You will also be doing it in a healthier way than other techniques. – Lana Bandoim
