People in the UK whose food intake fit into the Mediterranean diet were found to have better gum health in a new study, with reduced gum disease and inflammation.
Those who were not following the Mediterranean diet tended to have more severe gum disease, particularly if they consumed red meat frequently. Researchers observed higher levels of inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein in these patients.
However, those whose diet contained many plant-based foods such as legumes, vegetables, fruits and olive oil presented with lower levels of inflammatory markers. This diet, focusing on plant-based foods with moderate amounts of fish poultry and dairy, is known as the Mediterranean diet as it mirrors traditional eating habits in the Mediterranean region.
Dr Giuseppe Mainas is a postdoctoral researcher and first author of the study. He said: ‘Our findings suggest that a balanced, Mediterranean-type diet could potentially reduce gum disease and systemic inflammation.
‘We observed that there may be a connection between periodontal disease severity, diet and inflammation. These aspects should be holistically considered when assessing the treatment for periodontitis in patients.
‘Our research offers an important starting point that can lead to more research to better understand the relationship between foods intake and gum disease.’
How does the Mediterranean diet affect the gums?
The study was carried out by the faculty of dentistry, oral and craniofacial sciences at King’s College London (KCL) and published in the Journal of Periodontology.
The researchers noted that previous research shows ‘substantial evidence’ that a Mediterranean diet benefits human health by affecting the immune system as well as moderating inflammation. It has been linked with a lower risk of major diseases such as heart disease, neurodegenerative disorders and some cancers.
It is thought that the macronutrients, micronutrients and phytochemicals present in plant-based foods can lead to lower inflammation levels.
The KCL team tested this theory in relation to gum inflammation by evaluating data from 200 hospital patients – performing dental exams, taking blood samples and enquiring about their diets through questionnaires.
Professor Luigi Nibali, lead author and professor of periodontology, said: ‘There is emerging evidence about the role that a balanced diet might have in maintaining a periodontal healthy status. Our research shows the potential effect that a nutrient-dense, plant-rich diet could play in improving the nation’s gum health. Nevertheless, more investigation is needed to develop personalised approaches to help people manage their gum health.’
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