The Relationship Between Oral Health and General Health

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15 February 2017

Health & Fitness

Oral Health

Dentists have been stressing the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene habits for decades as well as the use of braces, in some cases. If you’re interested in getting a feel on braces and their average prices, click here. We are all well aware that following the proper daily routines can help to prevent conditions such as cavities, gingivitis, dental emergencies,  gum disease, and bad breath. However, were you aware that there is a very real connection between oral health and the overall state of your body? Let us take a look at this principle in a bit more detail, for what you learn may indeed be quite surprising.

Read also: 5 Protein Enriched Food To Improve Mental Health

The Mouth as Your Health “Barometer”

The first thing that we need to appreciate is the notion that the mouth is a very powerful indicator of what may be happening within our bodies. Why is this the case? Many practitioners will point to the saliva that we naturally secrete minute by minute. There are numerous chemicals contained within this fluid and specific concentrations can hint that there may be metabolic imbalances that would otherwise go unnoticed. Cancer markers, specific types of proteins, and hormones such as cortisol can all be measured by taking a sample of saliva. If the levels of these and other substances are determined to be abnormal, this may very well be the symptom of a more endemic problem.

Oral Health and Inflammatory Response

Were you aware that the condition of your mouth can also hint at the presence of potentially serious conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes? Gum disease can sometimes be a precursor to such health risks. Gum disease is an inflammatory response due to poor oral hygiene and the build-up of other harmful substances within the mouth. While inflammation is one of the ways in which the body naturally protects itself, studies have found that this very same inflammation can spread to other areas; particularly to the bloodstream. Many now theorize that this can contribute to the breakdown of blood vessels and other circulatory tissues over time. As a result, certain individuals could be at a potentially higher risk of developing other serious ailments. The brain itself could even be affected (a stroke is an example here).

The Risk of Infections

Not only is the mouth intended to begin the digestion process, but it is also a very important barrier against harmful infections. Unfortunately, this biological “firewall” can often be compromised if the proper levels of hygiene are not practiced. For example, gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease and there may be instances when harmful bacteria will enter into the circulatory system. Although this might not necessarily be a problem for healthy individuals, those whose immune response is already compromised could become quite ill. And for those that are pregnant, oral health is an important part of prenatal care because poor oral health during pregnancy can affect the baby – and everyone wants a HEALTHY BABY.

Read also: The Disturbing Trend Of Multiple Chronic Medical Conditions

These are some of the surprising relationships between oral health and overall health. Unfortunately, millions of individuals do not practice proper habits in order to protect their mouths. This can lead to more profound problems over time. As we gain a further understanding of how multiple systems of the body are connected, it is likely that oral hygiene will have an even greater impact.

For information regarding oral health, please visit the dentist in Cardiff.

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Essential Nutrients For Maintaining Optimal Maternal Health

5 Essential Nutrients For Maintaining Optimal Maternal Health

Is there anything more miraculous and joyful than carrying a piece of you for nine straight months? But pregnancy is certainly not a journey full of roses. From consuming the right diet to limiting exercise, there is so much to consider. But out of all, eating right during pregnancy is mega important. It is really vital for nurturing a healthy baby and mama. But with so many pregnancy nutrition rules, it can get kind of confusing and overwhelming fast! Well, guess what, here is a guide that will take you through the 5 essential nutrients every expecting mother should consume in the right amount. So, let’s get started… Prenatal Vitamins: What Are Those? In simple terms, prenatal vitamins refer to multivitamins for expecting mothers. In comparison to a usual multivitamin, the former has more nutrients that might make the pregnancy healthier. Usually, the medical professional assisting you will prescribe it, but if he doesn’t, you can always buy it from stores with a prescription.  The human body uses minerals, vitamins, and other nutrients present in food to stay healthy and strong. At the time of pregnancy, as we all know, the mother passes down all necessary nutrients to her embryo. Thus, your body asks for more vitamins when you are pregnant. That is exactly the job of prenatal vitamins.  Which Nutrients Are Most Important For A Perfect Maternal Health? Before you go bonkers, let’s break it down to the essential nutrients preggos really need more of. Here are 5 all-star vitamins and minerals to help maintain tip-top maternal health: The VIP Folate Alright, all you soon-to-be mamas, listen up. Folate (aka folic acid) should be topping your prenatal vitamin rockstar list. This essential B vitamin helps prevent major birth defects of the baby's brain and spine when taken before conception and in early pregnancy. We're talking about the next level vital for fetal development. Folate also helps produce new cells, so mama needs extra to accommodate a growing babe. Most docs recommend women start supplementing 400-800 mcg of folate at least a month before pregnancy. But hey, better late than never, if you're already pregnant, try to achieve optimal maternal health with a Specialist Obstetrician! Supercharged Iron Fun fact: A developing fetus needs lots of mineral iron to form their blood supply and other tissues. So, in turn, mama needs way more iron to share with baby! When you're expecting, your iron needs to jump by up to 50%. Unfortunately, the vitamin C in my OJ every morning doesn't cut it. Most mamas-to-be need an additional iron supplement of 30-60 mg on top of a balanced diet. Too little iron during pregnancy zaps your energy and can lead to stuff like anemia. No one wants that! So, rev up on iron-rich foods plus a prenatal vitamin to stay energized. 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So, make sure to take care of your mental health too.  Surround yourself with positive people, listen to calm music, and avoid taking too much stress. Post-partum depression is inevitable, but you can always be cheerful in your approaches when the baby is growing inside you. Eat whatever satisfies your soul, but make sure that it doesn’t have a negative impact on your baby. Your emotional strength is responsible for your physical strength, too. So, ensure to keep both of them balanced, positive, and cherishing. Conclusion There you have it, mamas - the crème de la crème nutrients for staying healthy during pregnancy! Prioritizing these all-star vitamins and minerals ensures you and your growing baby get all the key building blocks you need. Consult your doctor and add any supplements needed for optimal levels. Your nutrient intake matters more than ever before – so eat well for two! With this, it's a wrap on this comprehensive guide. But you will get to know more if you want to. Keep reading my articles, as they have a lot of beneficial information for my readers. Also, if you find this article helpful, do not forget to share your comments below.  Read Also: The Top 10 Best Foods To Eat In Early Pregnancy Meals That Matter: The Best Foods And The Ways They Make You Fit

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5 Ways To Get Healthier In The New Year

Every year, millions of Americans swear to themselves they are going to be healthier in the new year. In keeping with this tradition a “New Year's Resolution” is promised and they began to become excited about the new changes about to happen in their lives. Sadly, by February 14th, 80% of these new promises are abandoned and people return to their old habits and old life. If you are someone who has made a New Year’s Resolution this year, then you must first understand that nothing will change unless you are ready to make a change. It doesn’t matter how big the promise you made to yourself is, if you’re not dedicated and consistent, nothing will happen. However, this year is different. For once, you’re not going to be merely a statistic. You are going to advance your promise and build on a new life and a new you. If you are ready to take on the challenge, more than likely, you have committed to becoming healthier in some form or fashion this year. 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Be Who You Know You Can Be If you are considering a healthier in the new year, then you probably already know how difficult it can be to make these changes happen. The one thing you should focus on is small goals and meeting those goals every week in order to be healthier in the new year. So many people push themselves to lose 100 pounds in the first month, and then they fail so they give up. Aim small, miss small and that is the key to changing your lifestyle so you can be who you know you can be in your life. You must get healthier in the new year with the above tips. Read Also: Why City Living is the Healthiest it’s Ever Been How to Stay Healthy and Fit Despite a Hectic Schedule

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4 Pillars Of Relief: Canadian Migraine Medication Insights

Migraines are debilitating headaches that affect millions of Canadians, significantly impacting their daily lives. These intense headaches can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound, making it difficult to function normally. Luckily, various migraine medications are available in Canada, offering hope for relief and improved quality of life. 1. Acute Migraine Relief The primary goal of acute migraine medication is to stop the headache in its tracks and alleviate associated symptoms as quickly as possible. Here are some commonly used options in Canada: Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen and naproxen are often the first defense against mild to moderate migraines. They work by reducing inflammation and pain. Triptans: These prescription medications are specifically designed for migraine relief and target various mechanisms involved in migraine attacks. 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Biofeedback: This therapy teaches individuals to control their physiological responses, including stress and others, which might contribute to migraines. Dietary changes: Identifying and avoiding food triggers like cheese, chocolate, and alcohol can be helpful for some migraine sufferers. 4. Self-Management Strategies Beyond medication and alternative therapies, individuals can play a crucial role in managing their migraines by practicing self-management strategies. These include: Identifying and avoiding triggers: Recognizing and avoiding factors that trigger migraines, such as stress, certain foods, lack of sleep, or hormonal changes, can significantly reduce their occurrence. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep are essential for overall health and can reduce migraine frequency and severity. Relaxation techniques: Practicing relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga can help manage stress and tension, which can trigger migraines. Keeping a headache diary: Recording details about migraine attacks, including triggers, symptoms, and medications, can help identify patterns and inform treatment decisions. Navigating Migraine Medication in Canada: What You Need to Know Finding the right migraine medication is an individual journey, and it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional to discuss your specific needs and medical history. Here are some additional points to remember: Prescription vs. Over-the-counter: While some medications are available over-the-counter, others require a prescription from a doctor. Side effects: All medications have potential side effects, and it's crucial to understand these and discuss them with your doctor before starting any medication. 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Join a support group: Connecting with others who understand the challenges of migraines can offer valuable emotional and practical support. 2. Develop a Personalized Plan: Work with your doctor: Collaborate to create a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs, considering medication options, lifestyle modifications, and complementary therapies. Track your progress: Keep a headache diary to record details of your migraines, including triggers, symptoms, and medications used. This information can be vital in identifying patterns and adjusting your plan as needed. Set realistic goals: Focus on achievable goals, such as reducing migraine frequency or managing daily activities effectively. Celebrating small successes can boost motivation and maintain a positive outlook. 3. Prioritize Self-Care: Manage stress: Practice relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga to combat stress, a common migraine trigger. 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