For years, omega-3 fatty acids and their contributions to our health have been a popular topic in the media. However, these reports focus on heart health. Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids can also play a decisive role in the prevention of periodontitis.
About 70 percent of adults suffer from gum disease. If you eat unhealthy food or smoke, you not only damage your gums, but also the bones in your jaw.
How do I recognize dangerous gum disease?
A first sign of disease is bleeding gums. It is not taken seriously by many, but can be the harbinger of chronic gingivitis – periodontitis. In many cases it is discovered late and in the worst case leads to the loss of a tooth. It is therefore essential to pursue regular dental care, including brushing teeth at least twice a day and cleaning the spaces between your teeth with a dental floss or interdental brush. Periodontitis is often diagnosed much too late, so a dental check-up should be scheduled at least once a year.
A sufficient supply of omega-3 can reduce the risk of periodontitis by up to 20 percent.
How are omega-3 fatty acids related to periodontitis?
The right diet can also help prevent inflammation. An important role is played by unsaturated fatty acids such as omega-3 fatty acids, which have to be absorbed through food because they cannot be produced by the human body itself. A study involving 9,000 Americans has now shown that an adequate intake of fatty acids reduces the risk of periodontitis by 20%. Even a small amount helps to inhibit the growth of bacteria in the mouth.
The same also applies to micronutrients such as coenzyme Q10 or alpha-lipoic acid, which can help to suppress pathogenic germs and inflammation. The most biologically active omega-3 fatty acids are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Large amounts of these omega-3 fatty acids are found, for example, in ground linseed (daily requirement: one to two teaspoons) or in fatty fish such as mackerel, salmon, or tuna. However, the supply of these valuable fatty acids can also be easily ensured by various dietary supplements, where particular attention should be paid to high-quality preparations, especially when eating vegan food or not consuming fish.
