A recent study published in the Journal of Periodontology involving 200 hospital patients highlights that a Mediterranean diet, rich in plant-based foods like vegetables, fruits, legumes, and olive oil, can significantly improve gum health and reduce inflammation.

Participants who did not adhere to a Mediterranean diet, especially those consuming red meat frequently, exhibited more severe gum disease and higher levels of inflammatory markers such as IL-6 and CRP.

The study's findings underscore the importance of diet in managing oral health, with inflammation playing a central role in gum disease severity.

Inflammation caused by periodontal disease not only damages oral tissues but also contributes to vascular damage and organ dysfunction, including potential effects on the brain that may increase the risk of dementia.

Gum disease impacts the bones and supporting tissues of the teeth, and inflammation is a key factor in its progression and severity.

Experts emphasize that diet influences immune response and inflammation, which are critical in the development and management of gum disease.

Beyond diet, lifestyle factors such as social eating, mindful eating, and physical activity are integral to the Mediterranean lifestyle, promoting both oral and overall systemic health.