Oral infections in childhood may increase risk of cardiovascular diseases in adulthood

A new study has suggested that common oral infection in childhood is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis in adulthood. Atherosclerosis is a disease of the arteries characterised by the deposition of fatty material on their inner walls.

"The observation is novel since there are no earlier follow-up studies on childhood oral infections and the risk of cardiovascular diseases," said the researcher. More progressed oral infections and inflammations are known to be associated with several cardiovascular risk factors and disease risk in adults according to the details published.

Periodontitis in particular has been studied extensively, and currently, it is considered an independent risk factor for atherosclerotic vascular diseases. The treatment of periodontitis is also known to decrease cardiovascular risk factors.

The study was initiated in 1980 when clinical oral examinations were conducted. Cardiovascular risk factors were measured at several times. Cumulative exposure to the risk factor was calculated in both childhood and adulthood.

The signs of oral infections and inflammation collected in the study included caries, fillings, bleeding on probing, and probing pocket depth. There were no differences between the boys and the girls.

Thickening of the carotid artery wall indicates the progression of atherosclerosis and an increased risk for myocardial or cerebral infarction.

The researchers emphasise, in conclusion, "Oral infections were an independent risk factor for sub-clinical atherosclerosis, and their association with cardiovascular risk factors persevered through the entire follow-up. Prevention and treatment of oral infections are important already in childhood."

THIS IS ONLY FOR INFORMATION, ALWAYS CONSULT YOU PHYSICIAN BEFORE HAVING ANY PARTICULAR FOOD/ MEDICATION/EXERCISE/OTHER REMEDIES.                                    PS- THOSE INTERESTED IN RECIPES ARE FREE TO  VIEW MY BLOG-                                                                                           https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com/    

                                                                                                                                                     FOR INFO ABOUT KNEE REPLACEMENT, YOU CAN VIEW MY BLOG-                                                  https:// kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com/  

         

                   FOR CROCHET DESIGNS                                                                                                                                                                                                  https://gscrochetdesigns.blogspot.com

10 Everyday Habits That Can Undermine Your Health

Sometimes, we want to make our lives easier by breaking certain unwritten rules. What harm would it cause if you skipped just one dentist’s appointment, after all?

At other times, we make certain choices that, as we sincerely believe, are better for our health, but really aren’t. For example, the majority of the population in developed countries take dietary supplements. It may surprise you to find out that, contrary to popular belief, taking supplements you don’t need can affect your health.

For a detailed explanation of how these 2 and 8 other everyday habits could potentially make you sick, continue reading.

1. Touching Your Face

People often fail to notice when they rub their eyes or scratch their chin, especially when they’re too preoccupied with work or some other activity. In fact, most people don’t even suspect that this seemingly-harmless and very intuitive habit can actually make them sick.

Doctors point out that, in most cases, viruses get into our bodies through the mouth and nose, and we’re the ones introducing them to our bodies. By rubbing your nose and eyes, or by biting your nails you are letting the bacteria and viruses migrate into your body, especially when you’re in a public space.

Apart from introducing the flu and other infections, touching your face can cause acne, as well as worsen already-existing acne by spreading it to other areas of your skin. So, be mindful, notice when and where you’re touching your face and avoid it whenever possible.

2. Taking Vitamins & Supplements That You Don’t Need

It is common sense that depriving your body of essential vitamins and other nutrients is a terrible idea, but did you know that having too much of the good stuff can also make you sick? Because most people's diets are already so rich in nutrients, we can easily overdo it by adding even more vitamins and other supplements to our diet. 

The fat-soluble vitamins are usually more likely to cause adverse symptoms when taken in excess, as they are more difficult to filter out of the organism. If you take too much vitamin D, for example, it can manifest the following symptoms: vomiting, weakness, frequent urination, bone pain and kidney problems.

Water-soluble vitamins can also cause adverse effects. If you consume more than 2,000 mg of vitamin C in a day, for example, it can lead to heartburn, vomiting, headaches and insomnia. Finally, watch out for possible interactions of over-the-counter supplements with other medications you are taking, and never decide to take a supplement without consulting with your doctor.

3. Not Introducing Good Hygiene Habits When Interacting With Your Pet

Cuddling and playing with our beloved pets is one of the main reasons why we have them to begin with, but it is important to remember that even a healthy and vaccinated pet can have some potentially-dangerous cooties. We’ll use the example of dogs, but keep in mind that cats, ferrets and birds can also have different contagious diseases that you could catch.

The main culprit in dogs are parasites, like roundworms, hookworms and scabies, all of which can be passed onto you from your pet. Fortunately, you can’t catch the flu from a dog, but infections, such as leptospirosis and salmonella are a potential concern, even though they are less common and can be transferred only through dog urine or feces.

That’s why it is important to wash your hands before and after playing with your pet or handling their toys, litter boxes or bedding.

4. Washing Your Hands With Antibacterial Soap

The disadvantage of most antibacterial agents is that they don’t discriminate against good bacteria, but they majority of bacteria in our body (and on the surface of our skin) are essential for our health. In 2016, the FDA even banned several antibacterial ingredients used in soaps because their investigations showed that these ingredients promoted bacterial resistance and affected people’s endocrine health.

By regularly washing your hands with antibacterial soap, you are wiping out the beneficial microorganisms that live on your skin and protect you from harmful bacteria. In fact, it was estimated that our skin hosts over 500 species of good bacteria, and they are a vital element of our immune defense system.

While it may be beneficial or necessary to wash your hands with an antibacterial soap when your immune system is compromised, or when you know you’re in a contaminated environment, it is crucial not to do so at home, as it can cause frequent colds, the flu, and other infections. Just stick to regular soap and water.

5. Drinking From a Public Water Fountain

Drinking fountains are a known source of contagious viruses and bacteria, since its users, often unknowingly, can contaminate it. Because the problem isn’t with water quality, in most cases, you can still drink from the water fountain by simply avoiding contact or cleaning the tap.

Still, some germs can withstand cleaning, so it’s always the safest choice to carry around your own multi-use water bottle.

 6. Following the 5-Second Rule

For those of you who are lucky not to know that "the five-second rule" is, let us explain first. According to this rule, it is safe to eat fallen food if you picked it up from the floor within 5 seconds because it takes more than 5 seconds for the germs to contaminate your food.

This rule has no scientific basis behind it, and, frankly, it’s just an excuse. By eating food that fell on the floor or any furniture, you may be risking your health.

The truth is that bacteria get on your food the moment it reaches the ground, and there’s nothing you can do about it, so if you want to play safe, just toss the unfortunate ice cream into the trash and satiate your craving with a different treat.

7. Defrosting Food at Room Temperature

If you’re used to defrosting your meat, fish or fruit and vegetables on the kitchen counter, you may want to reconsider this decision. The USDA warns that any perishable foods (foods that spoil fast, both frozen and not, such as meat, dairy, fish, fruit, vegetables, etc.) should not be left to thaw at room temperature, as after the 2 hour mark, as it becomes a breeding ground for bacteria.

In fact, this process starts at 42°F (5°C) and most pathogens can continue to multiply up to a temperature of 135°F (60°C). So, instead of defrosting your foods on the counter, use the microwave or let it thaw slowly in the fridge.

8. Ignoring Minor Cuts and Scratches

Even the smallest cat scratch, a paper cut or a skinned elbow can become infected. Doctors explain that this is because all of us already have germs on our skin, but the skin barrier prevents them from entering our bodies.

An injury is the chance for the bacteria to get into our bloodstream, so it’s necessary to disinfect each and every minor wound you get. Dry and clean the wound and make sure you’re touching the affected area only with clean hands. Then, bandage the wound and let it heal. If any itching, redness or swelling occurs, get it checked by a doctor.

9. Washing Raw Meat

A surprising discovery I’ve made while writing this article is that by washing raw meat, you are actually increasing the likelihood of getting food poisoning.

Yes, it is true that contaminants may sit on the surface of the meat, but because you’re going to cook it and destroy most of them in the cooking process, you might actually be better off not washing raw meat. When you wash the meat, the bacteria can spread all over your sink, cooking gear and nearby food through water.

That’s why you should have a separate cooking station for meat and the rest of the food, use separate cooking utensils and keep the meat as far away from foods you’re not going to cook. Also, wash your hands thoroughly when you’re switching from handling meat to other foods.

10. Dismissing Oral Health & Hygiene

As we’ve mentioned above, our mouths are, unfortunately, the gateways for infection. The infection doesn’t have to come from the outside, however. Often, poor or inconsistent oral health may worsen certain conditions, or even cause others in various body parts and organs.
For example, heart disease and type-2 diabetes were both linked to gum disease. According to the National Health Service, developing periodontitis, a type of gum disease, can even increase your risk of stroke. Furthermore, certain dental procedures can even cause endocarditis, a type of infection of the inner heart lining, in immunocompromised patients. So, don’t skip dentist’s appointments and have a steady schedule of brushing and flossing your teeth.

THIS IS ONLY FOR INFORMATION, ALWAYS CONSULT YOU PHYSICIAN BEFORE HAVING ANY PARTICULAR FOOD/ MEDICATION/EXERCISE/OTHER REMEDIES.                                    PS- THOSE INTERESTED IN RECIPES ARE FREE TO  VIEW MY BLOG-                                                                                           https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com/                                                                                                                                                         FOR INFO ABOUT KNEE REPLACEMENT, YOU CAN VIEW MY BLOG-                                                  https:// kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com/           

                   FOR CROCHET DESIGNS                                                                                                                                                                                                  https://gscrochetdesigns.blogspot.com

Natural Ways to Fight Back Against Plaque

Plaque is a common dental problem that should not go unnoticed. Apart from being rather unsightly, plaque can also worsen, and lead to more serious ailments. There's an extensive range of products you can use to get rid of it, which are natural remedies, no chemicals involved.

What is plaque?
 Plaque (also known as dental biofilm) is formed as a result of substances gathering in our mouth after eating or drinking, appearing as a white or pale yellow "slime layer" between the teeth and along the cervical margins (the surface touching the gum). The substance consists of food debris, bacteria and bacterial waste, possibly leading to oral complications such as gingivitis and periodontitis.

Although the formation of plaque is normal for everyone and cannot be stopped, controlling it is one of the most important things in dental care. This is because plaque may become acidic, leading to the de-mineralisation of the teeth or tartar.

What is tartar?

If plaque remains untreated, it can harden and turn into what is called tartar or calculus. It can form both along the gum line, and also within the narrow sulcus, found between the teeth and the gingiva. Tartar may be the cause of bad breath, receding gums and chronically-inflamed gingiva, as well as further formation of plaque.

When plaque becomes tartar, it becomes far more difficult to remove and would require clinical help. Tartar formation is not only connected to oral hygiene, but also tobacco use, drugs, age, diet, and genetics.

Tartar Prevention-

To begin with, it is important to get checked regularly by a dentist to make sure your teeth and gums are in good shape. Secondly, we recommend that you try some of the best natural techniques that can rid your mouth from plaque in some simple steps. Here are some excellent methods that are tried and tested: 

  NATURAL REMEDIES FOR PLAQUE
1. Brushing with baking soda and salt

The combination of these two ingredients is one of the safest and most effective ways to help you eliminate plaque. Combine one tablespoon of baking soda and half a teaspoon of salt in a bowl. Dip a wet toothbrush into the mixture and brush your teeth with it. Repeat this a few times to achieve great results.

2. An apple a day keeps dentist at bay !

Snacking on apples or melon just after a meal is one of the best natural ways of cleaning your teeth and gums from remaining bits of food, as well as eliminating plaque.

3. Orange peel rub

Before brushing your teeth, grab a piece of orange peel and rub the inner (white) part against your teeth's surface for about two minutes. Doing this on a regular basis will not only render your teeth polished and whitened, but will prevent plaque build-up due to the vitamin C found in the orange peel.

4. Vitamin C rich diet

  Opt for Vitamin C-rich fruit, such as strawberries, to boost your immune system and help fight off oral infections. Take full advantage of their benefits by rubbing them against your teeth and consuming them.

5. Sesame seeds

 Sesame seeds may also help you get rid of plaque, due to properties that enable them to act as a great abrasive to clear and polish your teeth. Simply grind them against your teeth, then remove the leftover pieces using a dry toothbrush. Sesame seeds are also rich in calcium, hence good for teeth and bones !

 

6. Brush with coconut oil paste

 Protect your teeth from plaque by combining two tablespoons of virgin coconut oil and two tablespoons of baking soda in a bowl to make a paste. Then, use the paste as a natural toothpaste to reap the effective benefits. You may add any essential oil of your choice to the mixture to add flavour to it.

 7. Aloe vera as much good for teeth as for skin

  Studies have shown that aloe vera can improve plaque and periodontal conditions and maintain hygiene in our mouth. Simply apply some aloe vera to your toothbrush and use it as toothpaste.

 

8. Rinse with hydrogen peroxide

 The properties of hydrogen peroxide make it ideal to be used for oral health. Make a mouthwash consisting of three parts water (or prepared mouthwash) and one part 3% hydrogen peroxide solution. Swish, gargle, and rinse well for one minute daily. This will act as an astringent and teeth whitener, as well as help remove plaque and loosen tartar.   

Remember some other important tips: 

Brush your teeth regularly and effectively: If you want to avoid plaque accumulation, use a soft-bristled brush and brush up and down, carefully reaching and brushing each tooth.
•  Regukar dental check-up: Don't forget to get your teeth checked every so often.
•    Be hydrated: Water is a way of rinsing your mouth from food particles after eating a meal. Make sure you drink enough water each time.
•    Dental flossing: Use dental floss to clean the areas between your teeth at least once a day (although twice is ideal).

 

this is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for medicines, exercises and so on.
https://gscrochetdesigns.blogspot.com. one can see my crochet creations
https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com. feel free to view for easy, simple and healthy recipes

https://kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com. for info on knee replacement

Tooth cavities increase heart disease risk

Taking better care of your teeth can also help you lower the risk of heart diseases, suggests a new study.

The researchers have found that common oral infections which are caused by the bacteria in our mouth are linked to cardiovascular diseases.

The most common oral infections are cavities and periodontal diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis, which are chronic inflammatory diseases that slowly and steadily destroy the supporting structures of multiple teeth.

"Given the high prevalence of oral infections, any risk they contribute to future cardiovascular disease is important to public health," said senior author Thomas Van Dyke of the Forsyth Institute, affiliated with the Harvard School of Dental Medicine.

Inflammation plays a major role both in oral infections such as periodontitis and in cardiovascular disease, the study noted.

"Unravelling the role of the oral microbiome and inflammation in cardiovascular disease will likely lead to new preventive and treatment approaches," Van Dyke said.

The (oral) microbiome refers to the totality of microorganisms in a body part-in this case the mouth.
For the study, the researchers reviewed current clinical evidence supporting a link between oral infections and heart disease and found that oral infections, particularly periodontitis, and stroke, especially among men and younger individuals, are tied.

However, the researchers cautioned that certain over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs can produce significant cardiovascular side effects, which means it is crucial to consider alternative therapies.

"New discoveries of natural pathways that resolve inflammation have offered many opportunities for revealing insights into disease pathogenesis and for developing new pharmacologic targets for the treatment of both oral infections and cardiovascular disease," Van Dyke pointed out.

The study appeared in the journal Trends in Endocrinology and Metabolism.

 THIS IS ONLY FOR INFORMATION, ALWAYS CONSULT YOU PHYSICIAN BEFORE HAVING ANY PARTICULAR FOOD/ MEDICATION/EXERCISE/OTHER REMEDIES.








PS- THOSE INTERESTED IN RECIPES ARE FREE TO VIEW MY BLOG-
HTTP:GSEASYRECIPES.BLOGSPOT.COM      

FOR INFO ABOUT KNEE REPLACEMENT, YOU CAN VIEW MY BLOG-

HTTP://KNEE REPLACEMENT-STICK CLUB.BLOGSPOT.COM/

FOR CROCHET DESIGNS

HTTP://MY CROCHET CREATIONS.BLOGSPOT.COM

Healthy lifestyle to improve oral health in diabetics

Diabetics, who are at a higher risk of suffering from oral health problems, can avoid these by adopting a healthy lifestyle.

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have helped a large group of diabetics to markedly improve their oral health through health coaching.

"Diabetics are at a higher risk of suffering oral health issues like periodontitis and caries and other problems like dry mouth, fungal infections and poor wound healing," said Ayse Basak Cinar, assistant professor at department of odontology at the university.

In all, 186 patients with type 2 diabetes participated in the study done in Turkey - the first in the world - to demonstrate the role of health coaching in improving dental health.

The patients with diabetes were divided into two groups.

One group was given traditional health information, for example a brochure on good dental hygiene.

The other group was offered motivational health coaching in the form of 3-6 sessions over a six-month period, focusing on diet, stress management and dental care, said the research published in the journal Clinical Oral Investigations.

"In patients who were given personal health coaching, biological markers for periodontitis - also known as loose teeth disease - were reduced by as much as 50 percent over a six-month period," the research noted.

"The patients in the trial group saw a significant decline in long-range blood sugar levels, whereas figures for the control group were unchanged," said.

"Health coaching is a resource-intensive intervention. However, dishing out brochures to patients with diabetes and thinking that this would help is also a costly approach for the society," he added.

ps- this is only for information, always consult you physician before having any particular food/ medication/exercise/other remedies.

ps- those interested in recipes are free to view my blog-

http://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com/

for info about knee replacement, you can view my blog-

http://Knee replacement-stick club.blogspot.com/

for crochet designs

http://My Crochet Creations.blogspot.com