Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids may help lower the risk of gum disease, most notably periapical inflammation, a chronic disease caused by bacteria in the root canal of the tooth, the researchers found.
The research results were published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association.
The bacteria that are involved in the pathogen process apparently need inflammation to thrive. The anti-inflammatory treatment with omega-3 fatty acids helped in the case of periapical tissue inflammation in rabbits. We were hoping to achieve similar results in humans, says Dr. Kenneth Mukamal of Harvard Medical School in Boston.
Mukamal conducted research among over 9 adults, of which about 8 percent. suffered from inflammation of the periapical tissues. The analysis of the respondents’ diets showed that in the case of patients consuming the most docosahexaenoic acids (DHA) from the omega 3 group, the risk of developing inflammation was 22%. lower compared to those who consumed the least. The researchers also noted that gum disease was less common in people with relatively low levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) in their blood. Increased levels of this protein signals inflammation.
Dr. Mukamal points out, however, that further research is needed to confirm the protective effect of omega-3 acids. It is also not known yet what amount of DHA is needed to protect against inflammation of the periapical tissues.
The researcher adds that due to the beneficial effects of omega-3 fatty acids on the functioning of various organs, it is worth considering the recommendations of the American Heart Association and eating fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel or herring twice a week, which are the best source of omega-3. . (PAP)