February 29, 2008 – Regularly consuming yogurt would decrease the symptoms of infections of the gums (gingivitis) and the bone of the tooth (periodontitis). This effect would be attributable to lactic acid bacteria (lactobacilli), probiotics found in regular yogurt and other fermented milk.
This is what a study reveals1 survey conducted among 942 people aged 40 to 79. According to the results, there is a link between the consumption of yogurt and the severity of periodontal disease2 (gingivitis and periodontitis).
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Probiotic or regular yogurt? |
Symptoms were less severe in subjects who consumed 55 g or more of yogurt per day – or products containing lactic acid – compared to those who consumed less lactic acid bacteria.
These results were maintained regardless of age, gender, alcohol or tobacco consumption, frequency of tooth brushing, blood glucose or cholesterol levels. Milk and cheese, however, were not associated with healthy teeth and gums.
Participants were asked about their consumption of various dairy products over a period of one year. They were also subjected to a periodontal examination to assess the inflammation of the supporting tissues of the tooth: gums, bone and root.
According to the researchers, the lactic acid bacteria found in yogurt help control the growth of microbes in the oral cavity.
Emmanuelle Bergeron – PasseportSanté.net
1. Shimazaki Y, Shirota T, et al. Intake of dairy products and periodontal disease: the Hisayama Study. J Periodontol, 2008 Jan; 79 (1): 131-7.
2. Periodontal disease, including gingivitis and periodontitis, is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.
