Brush your way to better memory?

Dear Reality Health Check Reader,

Many folks overlook the importance of good oral hygiene.

But make no mistake, it’s paramount for overall health.

See, our mouths are filled with bacteria that do much more than start the process of digestion…

They can contribute to disease risk as well.

Stroke and dementia risk

According to new research, revamping your oral health routine could safeguard your BRAIN.

More specifically, a large observational study of middle-aged adults found a strong connection between poor oral health and risk factors of stroke and dementia.

In fact, skimping on your dental health was associated with a near-10 percent increase in white matter changes.

White matter is essential for cognitive processing. And its deterioration is associated with cognitive decline and loss of memory.

But that’s not all the study found…

Subjects who were genetically prone to poor oral health had a 30 percent increase in white matter changes.

This is important because white matter changes occur long before you notice cognitive changes or a more profound effect, like a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or a full-blown stroke.

In other words, you can ACT NOW to hopefully prevent a tragic event in the future.

Another silent killer—and health saboteur

There are many people who walk around and don’t think about their teeth (or gums) at all.

In fact, in the August 2022 issue of my monthly Logical Health Alternatives newsletter (“SKIPPING this hygienic routine could cause diabetes, heart disease, dementia, and MORE”), I reported on a survey that found a shocking amount of folks stopped making oral health a priority during the COVID-19 pandemic.

(Subscribers can access this archival issue by logging in with their credentials here. To learn about subscribing, scroll down and look for the red button.)

But as this new research further confirms, that’s a HUGE mistake.

I personally take pride in caring for my gums and teeth to the best of my ability, in between semi-annual trips to the dentist.

Indeed, visiting the dentist, flossing, brushing, and gargling regularly are simple things you can do to improve your oral health. In turn, you’ll safeguard other areas of your health, including cognition.

And really… who doesn’t want that?

At the end of the day, oral health certainly falls into my new favorite category called modifiable risk factors for disease. And I’m adding in to the preventative practices I ask my patients about, pronto.

P.S. There are many safe ways to protect brain health as you age. I outline an all-natural protocol to protect and restore memory, strengthen focus, and fight dementia in my Alzheimer’s Prevention and Treatment Plan. Click here to learn more!

Source:

“Poor Oral Health Tied to Worse Brain Health.” Medscape, 01/09/2024. (medscape.com/viewarticle/poor-oral-health-tied-worse-brain-health-2024a10000jy)