IT IS AMAZING how taking care of our teeth and gums can also do wonders in preventing other diseases.
Take for instance how eating a well-balanced diet that is low in sugar is also good for general health.
It is good for oral health because sugar creates an environment conducive to the growth of bacteria that produces acids that – if not toothbrushed out – may destroy the enamel, the protective coating of our teeth.
A diet low in sugar can also help prevent diabetes, heart disease, cancer and obesity.
Indeed, maintaining good oral health has a positive impact on general health, well-being and quality of life.
There are sugars and there are free sugars.
There are sugars that are naturally present in whole fruits, vegetables and milk.
Then there are free sugars that are the main problem. These are sugars that are added to foods and drinks or are naturally present in honey, syrups, fruit juices and fruit juice concentrates.
Confectionery, cakes, biscuits, sweetened cereals, sweet desserts and jams/preserves, soda, fruit juices, energy and sports drinks are common sources of free sugars.
“Sugar is the number one cause of tooth decay (dental caries), which is the most common health condition globally,” according to the World Dental Federation, better known as the Fédération Dentaire Internationale (FDI).
The FDI represents more than one million dentists worldwide.
“Eat a well-balanced diet that is low in sugar and high in fruit and vegetables,” it advices. Adults should have no more than six teaspoons of sugar daily; it’s three teaspoons for children.
Look at the fine print, and be aware of the ingredients of what you are eating or drinking. Manufacturers put a lot of sugar in foods and drinks.
And watch out yourself. You may be putting a lot of sugar in the foods you cook like the spaghetti sauce that can be a lot sweet, as Filipinos are fond of.
Avoid sweet and sugary drinks like soft drinks, juice, energy and sports drinks – all laden with empty calories that contain high levels of energy of no nutritional value.
Now this is very difficult to follow: not eating sugary snacks in between meals. This one too: drink plain water instead of sugary juices and soft drinks.
According to the FDI, consuming sugary drinks regularly (almost one can a day) is not only bad for your mouth, it increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Eating excessive amounts of sugar from snacks, processed foods, and drinks not only causes tooth decay, but is a major contributor to obesity and increases the risk of diabetes.
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Dr. Joseph D. Lim is the former Associate Dean of the College of Dentistry, University of the East; former Dean, College of Dentistry, National University; Past President and Honorary Fellow of the Asian Oral Implant Academy; Honorary Fellow of the Japan College of Oral Implantologists; and Honorary Life Member of the Thai Association of Dental Implantology. For questions on dental health, e-mail jdlim2008@gmail.com or text 0917-8591515.)/PN
