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DENTAL AND GENERAL HEALTH TIPS:
The number one influencing factor that has been shown time and time
again in periodontal disease is SMOKING. Smokers are five times
more likely to have periodontal disease than non-smokers. Smoking constricts
the blood vessels in the mouth and slows down the healing process and
decreases the anitbodies that are produced, creating an environment
that is more prone to disease. In addition, it has been found that smoking
decreases the available Vitamin C to the body. Vitamin C has been shown
in hundreds of studies to help with healing, improve the strength of
the blood vessel walls and is a powerful anti-oxidant which helps to
reduce the aging of cells.
WATER. The human body contains plenty of water, however, we are
continually losing water through sweat, urine, tears, and even in our
breathing. Most authorities recommend drinking at least 2 quarts - thats
eight glasses of water per day. Water is necessary for helping to transport
nutrients throughout our body, as well as remove the waste products.
In addition, it helps lubricate our joints and regulate our body temperature.
Be careful about thinking that because you may drink sodas or coffee,
that you are getting your daily supply of water. In fact, the caffeine
in coffee, tea and soft drinks, as well as (the alcohol in) alcoholic
drinks act as diuretics and cause the body to LOSE water. Water helps
keep your skin supple and soft.
DIET. Eat a good balanced diet that contains a good mix of meats
as well as vegetables and fruits with a minimum of sugary snacks, soft
drinks and coffee. We have found through simple surveys of our patients,
that the people with the least number of cavities tend to rarely drink
sodas and intake minimal coffee, sugary snacks and drink a lot of water.
This contributes to having a higher salivary pH, making the body healthier
and less likely for bacteria to cause damage.
STRESS. This is another factor that can contribute to dental
related problems such as clenching or grinding. A couple of simple tips
to help reduce this is to cut down on ALCOHOL, try to relax before you
go to bed by doing some simple things such as a warm bath, talking with
a friend, reading, or meditation. If you do clench your teeth, it can
cause headaches and wearing on the teeth. By wearing a nightguard to
prevent that grinding, some people are able to reduce their stress as
well as radically reduce the headaches.
"5 a day and 30" is the theme that runs through the website
with the same name. They are promoting 5 fruits and vegetables, as well
as 30 minutes of cardiovascular training five days a week for optimum
health. Visit their website for more info... Staying
Healthy.
If you are able to follow the guidelines for eating correctly, than
pat yourself on the back!! If you find it difficult, then taking some
type of vitamin supplement that is appropriate for your age and
gender, may be a good idea. Dr. Andrew Weil is a big promoter of nutrition
and supplements when indicated. For more info from him, check out http://www.drweil.com.
Exercise 3 times a week for at least 20 minutes where your heart rate
goes up and keep your blood flow and circulation going!
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