Junk food and poor oral health increase risk of premature heart disease
The association between poor oral health and increased risk of cardiovascular disease should make the reduction of sugars such as those in junk food, particularly fizzy drinks, an important health policy target, say experts writing in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine. Poor oral hygiene and excess sugar consumption can lead to periodontal (gum) disease where the supporting bone around the teeth is destroyed. It is thought that chronic infection from gum disease can trigger an inflammatory response that leads to heart disease through a process called atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries.
According to the researchers, as well as having high levels of fats and salt, junk foods often contain a great deal of sugar and the effect this has on oral health may be an important additional mechanism by which junk food elevates the risk of cardiovascular disease. Soft drinks have raised particular concerns and are the main source of free sugar for many individuals.
They said that people should be encouraged to reduce fizzy drink intake and improve oral hygiene, as reducing sugar consumption and managing dental problems early could help prevent heart problems later in life.
From www.sciencedaily.com