For a Healthy Heart…Brush Your Teeth!
As a health coach I deal with a lot of people that are at risk of heart disease or have already been diagnosed with a heart problem. We talk about cholesterol, blood pressure, triglycerides and of course how to improve these numbers via life style changes. But did you know that poor oral health is linked to heart disease?
Some researchers claim that people who do not take care of their oral health may increase their risk of developing heart disease by 70 percent, mainly due to the link between periodontal (aka gum) disease and inflammation spreading to blood stream and vessels. This is especially worrisome in the case of root canals. Here is an interesting article from Dr. Mercola that further explores the correlation between oral health and your overall health. While some doctors do not see a clear link to heart disease, Sam Low, DDS, associate dean at the University of Florida College of Dentistry agrees that “the bacteria we find in gum disease we also find in blood vessels that are going through atherosclerosis”.
So what now? Ideally, you are paying attention to diet and exercise, you may be even taking some supplements, like Omega 3/ fish oil, CoQ10, vitamin D, in support of a healthy heart. However just by brushing and flossing, and by seeing your dentist regularly, you will be giving your heart some tender, loving care.
If you need to take your actions further to improve your heart health, I have a new Heart Health Coaching protocol based on cardiologist Dr. Masley’s expertise. This protocol targets heart disease prevention and reversal and I would be delighted to discuss it with you.
