Body Mass Index and Oral Health
We all know that exercise has many documented benefits, including lowering the risk of heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and certain cancers. Research also indicates it can also boost oral health. For example, a study published in the Journal of Dentistry showed that consistent physical activity could promote oral health. More precisely, people with consistent exercise habits had a 54% lower likelihood of developing gum disease than those who led idle lives. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey also shared that people who exercised three times a week or less could benefit, translating to a 33% lower likelihood of developing periodontitis.
The connection between Body Mass Index and Oral Health
There is a critical link between Body Mass Index (BMI) and oral health. For example, one study published in the Journal of Periodontology found that people who maintain a healthy weight and get the recommended amount of exercise had a 40% lower likelihood of having gum disease. Other health-enhancing behaviors include following a healthy, Mediterranean-style diet lacking void of refined sugars and high in fiber, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. What most reading this article have heard before.
Getting Started On A New Routine
The recommended amount of exercise to boost oral health varies by age. The Department of Health and Human Services recommends around 150 minutes of moderate cardiovascular exercise or 75 minutes of strenuous cardiovascular exercise for most healthy adults. Strength training is also vital for major muscle groups at least twice a week. If you are new to exercise, you should do so slowly, increasing workout times and intensities as you progress. If a new weight training regime leaves you sore, try a foam roller to help alleviate the stiffness and soreness associated with a new weight program. A little pain is expected when a person starts a new weights training routine, mainly due to lactic acid build-up. Personal pain relief rollers can help stretch and warm-up well before workouts.
It Works the Other Way Also
We know that exercise can benefit oral health, but it works the other way. Taking care of your teeth can help protect your heart and, therefore, your ability to stay fit and active. The European Society of Cardiology study found that brushing teeth frequently is linked to a lower risk of atrial fibrillation and heart failure. In addition, scientists projected that frequent brushing reduces the number of bacteria living in the pockets between teeth and gums, thereby keeping the bacteria away from the bloodstream.
Too Much Exercise?
Despite the benefits of exercise for oral health, those who train intensively (such as pro or semi-pro athletes) should note a Scandinavian study showing that heavy training can contribute to oral health issues, including cavities caused by exercise-induced grinding of tooth enamel causing erosion. Some of the leading causes of enamel weakness are drinking acidic sports drinks and breathing with the mouth open during exercise. We have blog articles here on Midwest BioHealth about the importance of proper breathing during exercise. Athletes can counteract these effects by opting for a water-electrolyte solution and aiming to work out with their mouths closed.
Exercise supports oral health – particularly gum health. However, it can erode the enamel when carried out intensively, so try and strike a balance. For example, athletes need to avoid acidic drinks and breathe through their noses rather than give up on training. On the other hand, living with an open mouth can dry saliva, leaving the enamel exposed to harmful bacteria.