According to a new study, it was found that adopting the Mediterranean diet reduces your risk of gum disease, which reduces your risk for inflammation that leads to chronic disease and dementia. Findings from the study, published on September 15 in the Journal of Periodontology, suggest that people not following a Mediterranean–style diet tended to have more severe gum disease, especially if they consumed red meat frequently.
Based on the data collected from the patients, the researchers observed higher levels of circulating inflammatory markers, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and Interleukin-6 (IL-6). Meanwhile, lower levels of various inflammatory markers were found in patients whose diets were rich in plant-based foods, which are typical of a Mediterranean diet, such as legumes, vegetables, fruits, and olive oil.
What is the Mediterranean diet?
The Mediterranean diet features simple, plant-based cooking, with the majority of each meal focused on fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans and seeds, with a few nuts and a heavy emphasis on extra-virgin olive oil. Studies have found that the diet tends to reduce the risk for diabetes, high cholesterol, dementia, memory loss, depression, and breast cancer. Based on substantial evidence, the diet plays a vital role in human health by affecting the immune system and moderating inflammation.
What does the study reveal about the Mediterranean diet?
In a statement made by Dr Giuseppe Mainas, first author of the study and a postdoctoral researcher at King’s College London, he explained that their findings suggest that a balanced, Mediterranean-type diet could potentially reduce gum disease and systemic inflammation.
He also went further to explain that they 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. Hence, the research offers an important starting point that can lead to more research to better understand the relationship between food intake and gum disease. However, more investigation is required to develop personalized approaches to help people manage their gum health.
