Bel Marra Health Reports on Recent Research Revealing The Mental Health Benefits of Oral Care
Toronto, ON (PRWEB) August 16, 2013 -- Bel Marra Health, who offers high-quality, specially formulated vitamins and nutritional supplements, reports on a recent study revealing that oral hygiene may help to reduce onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
As Bel Marra Health reports in its article, (http://www.belmarrahealth.com/brain-function/brushing-away-dementia/) a recent study by a group of British researchers suggests that oral hygiene might play a role in the onset of dementia, specifically Alzheimer’s disease. The study found bacteria linked to gum disease in four out of ten brain tissue samples from Alzheimer’s disease patients. No signs of the bacteria were found in brain tissue samples from people of similar age who had not developed dementia.
Alzheimer’s disease is a common form of dementia that primarily affects the older population, normally over the age of 60. Common symptoms include short-term memory loss, disorientation, and an extreme mood and personality change. The World Health Organization suggests that the number of dementia cases will rise to 115 million by 2050. Alzheimer’s disease, although common, is incurable. While treatments do exist, they simply alleviate the symptoms that the patient is experiencing.
The study, which was published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, outlines some of the possible ways the bacteria may have reached the brains of dementia patients. According to the team, the bacteria first enters a person’s bloodstream. This may occur through micro-scratches from a toothbrush, or through larger cuts or cavities, such as those caused by tooth removal and other surgery. From there, the bacteria are free to spread anywhere within the body, including the brain.
While the study did not directly explore the contribution of these bacteria to Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, the researchers do have some ideas regarding the role that bacteria may play in the onset of dementia. Dr. Sim Singhrao, lead researcher of the study, states "We are working on the theory that when the brain is repeatedly exposed to bacteria… from our gums, subsequent immune responses may lead to nerve cell death and possibly memory loss."
According to Dr. Simon Ridley -- head of research at Alzheimer’s Research UK, the UK’s top dementia research facility -- this study is still in its early stages. Only a small number of samples were tested, and even fewer showed signs of bacteria linked to gum disease in Alzheimer’s patients. Dr. Ridley adds that, "we do not know whether the presence of these bacteria in the brain contributes to the disease and further research will be needed to investigate this."
Previous research has pointed to a connection between oral hygiene and general health. A 2010 New York University study even suggested a link between Alzheimer’s disease and gum inflammation. Dr. Simon Ridley believes that it is important for further studies to look back at dental records and correlate oral hygiene to the occurrence of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
As the link between oral hygiene and overall health becomes clearer, it becomes increasingly important for people to be aware of their brushing patterns. It may seem counter-intuitive, but while brushing may be one of the ways the gum disease bacteria enter the bloodstream, it is still of paramount importance to maintain good oral hygiene. This reduces the chance of the bacteria developing within the mouth in the first place.
Simple habits - such as brushing and flossing regularly, rinsing thoroughly after meals, and regular dental checks - may go a long way in preserving not only healthy vibrant smiles, but perhaps mental health as well.
(SOURCE: Poole, Sophie. "Determining the Presence of Periodontopathic Virulence Factors in Short-Term Postmortem Alzheimer's Disease Brain Tissue." Journal of Alzheimer's Disease 36.4 (2013): IOS Press, 10 May 2013. DOI : 10.3233/JAD-121918.)
Bel Marra Health is the maker of "The Smart Pill," a high-quality nutritional supplement that helps enhance cognitive functioning by promoting clearer thinking, supporting concentration, improves memory, and supports healthy mood. All ingredients are backed with scientific evidence. Every product is tested for safety, quality, and purity at every stage of the manufacturing process. Furthermore, Bel Marra Health products are produced only in Health Canada approved facilities, going the extra mile to ensure that our health-conscious customers are getting top quality products. For more information on Bel Marra Health visit belmarrahealth.com or call 1-866-531-0466.
Jim Chiang, Belmarra Nutritionals, Inc, http://www.belmarrahealth.com/, 866-531-0466, [email protected]
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