Autumn is in full swing, the leaves are turning into warm fall colors, and the first signs of cold season can't be missed. At this time of year, we want to talk about a topic that is often underestimated, but is particularly important at this time of year: the close link between your dental care, your dental health and your immune system.
The immune system: a scientific explanation
The immune system is a complex network of organs, cells and proteins that protects the body from pathogens and other harmful invaders. It works on several levels to fight infections and keep the body healthy.
How does the immune system work?
- Recognition: The immune system constantly recognizes whether foreign or harmful substances, such as bacteria, viruses or fungi, are present in the body.
- Attack: When harmful substances are detected, the immune system mobilizes an army of cells to fight them. These include white blood cells, which destroy pathogens, and antibodies, which mark specific pathogens to render them harmless.
- Memory: The immune system remembers which pathogens it has already fought. This enables it to react more quickly and efficiently if the same pathogen reappears.
The influence of your oral health on your immune system
You may wonder what your dental health has to do with your immune system. But the answer is surprising and can have a significant impact on your health. Here are some important points:
1. your oral health affects your immune system
Your mouth is the main entrance for bacteria and pathogens. Poor dental health can lead to gingivitis, which weakens the immune system. Inflammation in the mouth releases harmful bacteria and germs that can affect the rest of the body. Unfortunately, a weakened immune system also makes you more susceptible to colds and other infections.
Our recommendation: Regular check-ups at the dentist's surgery and thorough daily oral hygiene are the key. A suitable, preferably natural dental care product, the right toothbrush, dental floss and / or interdental brushes are indispensable tools for maintaining your oral health.
2. the link between oral health and nutrition
Healthy teeth and gums allow you to better absorb nutrients from food. Poor oral health can affect digestion and hinder the absorption of vitamins and minerals that are crucial for a strong immune system.
Our recommendation: Make sure you eat a balanced diet that is rich in nutrients. Your oral health and immune system will thank you. Here are some immune-boosting foods you can incorporate into your diet:
- Citrus: Oranges, lemons, grapefruits and tangerines are rich in vitamin C, which boosts white blood cell production and improves immune function.
- Garlic: Garlic contains allicin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties and can boost the immune system.
- Yogurt: Yogurt contains probiotics that promote healthy bacteria in the gut and support the immune system.
- Ginger: Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and can help fight infections.
- Green leafy vegetables: Spinach, kale and broccoli are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that boost the immune system.
- Chicken soup: A warm chicken soup can relieve the symptoms of colds and flu and speed up the healing process.
- Berries: Berries like raspberries, strawberries and blueberries are full of antioxidants that reduce inflammation and optimize immune response.
- Nuts and seeds: Almonds, sunflower seeds and chia seeds are rich in vitamins and minerals that support the immune system.
- Fermented foods: Sauerkraut, kefir and kimchi are good sources of probiotics that promote gut health and thus strengthen the immune system.
By incorporating these immune-boosting foods into your diet and looking after your oral health at the same time, you can achieve a double benefit for your health. Your immune system will be strengthened and you will be less susceptible to colds and infections.
3. the intestinal flora is fed from the mouth
It is now well known that our gut, including its flora, plays a crucial role in our immune system.
But did you know that a healthy mouth produces around 1.5 liters of saliva per day, which not only remineralizes our teeth but also feeds our gut? Our saliva is nothing less than filtered blood and is enriched with important enzymes, minerals and bacteria. The oral microbiome therefore feeds our intestinal flora with an impressive amount of saliva.
Recommendation: Make sure that you avoid ingredients in your dental care that can have a negative impact on the oral microbiome. This category includes triclosan, fluoride and chlorhexidine, for example. A disinfected mouth is not the best prerequisite for providing the gut with sufficient healthy bacteria.
4. prevention is the key
Proper dental care, such as regular brushing and flossing, can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. This takes the pressure off the immune system as it doesn't have to constantly fight bacteria.
Our recommendation: Care for your teeth and gums carefully to stay healthy in the long term. Don't forget to eat a low-sugar diet to minimize the risk of tooth decay.
teethlovers: For a healthy smile and a strong immune system
At teethlovers, we believe that a healthy smile and a strong immune system go hand in hand. Our organic tooth powders are not only delicious, but also made from 100% natural ingredients that can promote your oral health and thus support your immune system.
Recommendation: Find your favorite variety among our four different organic tooth powders and try them out. We do not use any additives in the formulas, such as triclosan, foaming agents and many more, which are not used for direct dental care and are notorious for endangering health. The formulation of the organic tooth powder consists of 100% natural active ingredients to effectively and gently support your oral health and thus your immune system.
Lemon for colds: two tips for a faster recovery
But what if you do catch a cold? This is where lemon comes into play, which has proven its worth not only in our organic peppermint-lemon & lemon-ginger-turmeric tooth powder varieties! Lemons are rich in vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system.
Our recommendation: Here are two tips on what you can do with lemon to support your recovery:
- Lemon water: prepare yourself a cup of warm water with the juice of half a lemon. This refreshing drink not only provides vitamin C, but also helps to soothe your throat and loosen mucus. It is best to drink it with a straw to protect your teeth from the acid and strengthen your immune system at the same time. Important information: The organic lemon essential oil we use in the tooth powders is free from acids and has positive effects on the teeth compared to lemon juice!
- Lemons in soups and teas: Add lemon slices or juice to your soups or herbal teas. Not only does lemon add flavor, but its antioxidant properties can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
This fall season, or any season for that matter, dental health and boosting your immune system should be a top priority. Remember that the health of your mouth and the health of your body are linked. With the right care and a balanced diet, you can strengthen your immune system and better arm yourself against colds and infections. Then you can really enjoy the colorful leaves in autumn!