Ketogenic Diet Supports Oral Health - Is Keto Good for Oral Health?
The ketogenic diet is a diet that increases ketone production in the body. Although it is thought that a diet focused on weight loss will be harmful to oral health, a healthy diet is very effective and important for oral health. Research shows that a low-carb and low-sugar diet that increases ketone production reduces the formation of tartar, cavities and gum disease.
Ketosis is a normal metabolic process in which the body burns fat and increases the level of acids called ketones. Improved ketone production has been found to have positive effects on oral health. The foods you consume can help you feel less pain during dental treatment.
Why are Carbs Bad for Your Teeth?
Carbohydrates cause the formation of bacteria in the mouth that cause acid and tartar formation. This situation is called demineralization (degradation of mineral structure). This causes tooth decay. Reducing carbohydrate consumption reduces acid erosion that can occur on teeth.
Can the Keto Diet Help Gum Disease?
Today, many people suffer from gum disease. Research shows that a diet based on low carbohydrate and sugar consumption reduces tartar formation, cavities and gum disease by increasing ketone production. Therefore, a ketone-rich diet with a low carbohydrate and sugar content positively affects oral health, minimizing oral diseases. According to a study conducted in Finland, consumption of one or two sugary drinks a day increased tooth decay by 31%.
If your primary goal in integrating the ketogenic diet into your life is your oral health, achieving nutritional ketosis at 0.5 millimoles per liter is a good start. This may sound complicated, but using tools like ketone meters will make sure your ketone levels are in balance, which is essential for your oral health.
What Are Some Of the Side Effects Of the Keto Diet?
The only side effect of ketone is increased bad breath, which can easily be overcome. Some people report a metallic taste in their mouth. By increasing the amount of daily water consumption to eliminate bad breath, you can support the removal of bacteria from your body. Brushing and flossing after meals not only protects your oral health, but also prevents the formation of ketone-induced bad breath. Reducing protein consumption is also a solution. The bad breath problem recurs as the body tries to burn the protein.
The good news is that if you are considering a long-term ketogenic diet, your body will adapt to the ketone and your bad breath problem will disappear. The use of sugar-free gum or dragee also helps you in this process. Nothing can replace daily brushing and flossing to keep your teeth and gums healthy. But managing your ketone levels is also crucial to maintaining oral health. Reducing sugar and carbohydrate consumption allows you to have a healthy smile for life.