Most people think of gum disease as a problem caused mainly by poor brushing or not visiting the dentist often enough.
While plaque and harmful bacteria are important causes, scientists are increasingly learning that diet, inflammation, stress, and general health also influence the condition.
A new study from King’s College London has added another piece to this puzzle.
Researchers found that a short-term low-calorie eating plan was linked to lower levels of inflammation associated with gum disease.
The findings were published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology.
Gum disease affects millions of people worldwide.
The more severe form, called periodontitis, develops when bacteria and inflammation damage the tissues around the teeth. Over time, this damage can destroy the bone supporting the teeth, leading to tooth loss.
Beyond the mouth, periodontitis has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and other chronic illnesses. Scientists believe ongoing inflammation may help explain these connections.
The study involved 28 patients from hospitals in Spain. Researchers divided them into two groups. One group continued normal eating habits, while the second group followed a fasting-mimicking low-calorie diet.
Participants ate around 1,100 calories daily for two days and about 750 calories daily for the next three days. They then gradually returned to normal eating. This cycle was repeated three times during six months.
After six months, scientists collected blood samples and examined fluid from around the gums. They found that people who followed the low-calorie program had lower levels of inflammatory markers than those in the control group. They also had lower levels of C-reactive protein.
Researchers believe several factors may explain these improvements. Calorie restriction may reduce oxidative stress, which can damage cells and trigger inflammation.
Eating fewer highly processed foods and sugary foods may also reduce inflammation. Scientists are also investigating whether fasting affects the microbiome in ways that support healthier gums.
Dr. Giuseppe Mainas said the findings suggest lifestyle changes could become an important addition to traditional dental care. However, fasting is not suitable for everyone. Some people with medical conditions may face risks if they significantly reduce calorie intake.
The research builds on earlier work from King’s College London showing that healthy eating patterns, including the Mediterranean diet, may improve gum health.
Looking at the results carefully, this study provides encouraging early evidence that dietary interventions may help reduce inflammation linked to gum disease.
A strength of the study is that researchers measured changes in both blood and gum-related samples. However, the study was small and cannot prove that fasting alone improves gum disease.
Future research involving larger groups of patients will be needed to confirm the findings. Even so, the study highlights an important message: what people eat may influence not only their overall health but also the health of their gums.
If you care about wellness, please read studies about how ultra-processed foods and red meat influence your longevity, and why seafood may boost healthy aging.
For more health information, please see recent studies that olive oil may help you live longer, and vitamin D could help lower the risk of autoimmune diseases.
Source: King’s College London.
