P
eople with severe gum problems are more likely
than those with healthy gums or with less extensive problems to
test positive for Helicobacter pylori, the bacteria
associated with stomach ulcers.
Researchers from the U.S. Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention examined data on more than 4,500 people
who were involved in a national survey conducted between 1988
and 1994 in the United States.
One sign of severe periodontal disease is deep
pockets (spaces) between the teeth and gums. Normally, the gums
hug the teeth snugly. The researchers found that people with
pockets at least 5 millimeters deep were almost 50 percent
more likely to test positive for H. pylori, compared
with people who had healthy gums or less severe gum problems.
The research suggests that H. pylori
may play a role in periodontal disease.
The likelihood of infection with H.
pylori increases with age and infection is more common
in people who live at or near the poverty level.
Periodontal disease
— a term that includes gingivitis and periodontitis — can
affect the gums, connective tissue, and bone surrounding the
teeth. At its most severe, it can cause tooth loss.
American Journal of Public Health,
November 2002
Ulcer-Nixing Nutrition
 |
| If you're getting plenty of
vitamin C in your diet, you could be decreasing
your risk of becoming infected with ulcer-causing
bacteria.
In a recent study, high blood
levels of ascorbic acid, or vitamin C, were
associated with a decreased risk of infection with
Helicobacter pylori, a kind of bacteria that is a
common cause of ulcers. Good food sources of
vitamin C include oranges, red bell peppers, and
strawberries.
RealAge Benefit: Getting
1,200 milligrams of vitamin C per day from food
and supplements can make your RealAge as much as 1
year younger.
|
|
February 06, 2008
