A Chinese study has reported that consuming chocolate can help reduce the risk of gum disease by half. Experts suggest that the antioxidants found in cocoa, especially in dark chocolate, may be responsible for this effect. Cheese and unsalted peanuts are also associated with a lower risk, whereas filtered coffee and low-calorie beverages may increase the risk of gingivitis.
The study conducted by Chongqing Medical University in China utilized data from the UK Biobank, which contains information about the lifestyle and health of over 500,000 individuals aged between 40 and 69 years. The results found a connection between chocolate and cheese and a 54% reduced risk of gum disease, while unsalted peanuts were associated with a 71% reduction in risk. The study published in the journal Frontiers In Genetics indicated that rice was linked to a 58% risk reduction.
According to the findings, filtered coffee increases the risk by 42%, and the likelihood rose to 57% concerning low-calorie beverages, where additives in these drinks are believed to play a contributing role. In fact, several previous studies have linked gum disease to serious and life-threatening medical conditions, such as heart attacks or other cardiovascular diseases, Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, and stroke.
Some of the main signs of gum disease include:
- Bad breath that persists even after brushing.
- A foul taste in the mouth.
- Red and swollen gums.
- Frequent bleeding of the gums for minor reasons, such as brushing.
- Excessive saliva production.
