The Ketogenic diet, also called the “Keto Diet,” is one of the latest trends in weight loss. Keto involves drastically restricting carbohydrates while adding an abundance of fats and proteins. In result, the body goes into “ketosis” and begins to use the fat for energy rather than the glucose from carbs and sugars. For those who are disciplined enough to adhere to this strict dieting plan, the results can be rapid weight loss and extra energy.
The Keto diet may be great for the waistline, but how does this extreme change in diet affect oral health? If you are following Keto, you’ll be happy to know that most dentists approve. While Ketosis is known for bad breath, the overall effects on your dental health can be quite positive. In fact, without consuming sugars, your gums and teeth are more protected from decay and gum disease.
Bad breath is one of the primary signs that your body has entered ketosis. This naturally occurs when your body is burning fat for energy and converting fat cells into ketones. One of the ketones that is produced is called acetone, which can’t be used for energy and is rejected through the lungs and urine. Acetone gives off a slightly fruity smell, but not in the way you’d want for your breath. If you have ketosis breath but don’t want to stop your successful Keto diet, talk to your dentist about ways to overcome bad breath, such as chewing sugar-free gum, drinking more water, better brushing/flossing and adding fresh herbs (clove, cinnamon, mint) to water and tea.
No Sugar and Carbs = Better Oral Health
The American Dental Association reports that processed sugars are one of the worst foods for your dental health, as they are leading contributors for periodontal disease and cavities. Fortunately, the Keto diet virtually eliminates processed sugars and drastically reduces the allowed grams of carbohydrates per day. Therefore, despite the unwanted breath odor, your mouth can retain better overall health during Keto.
The smile health benefits don’t stop there. A study in BMC Oral Health revealed that a low carb diet that is high in omega-3 fatty acids contributes to lower rates of gingivitis and inflammation. This means you are further protected from gum disease, which is the leading cause of tooth loss and a threat to your whole-body health.
Always talk to your physician before beginning an extreme diet like Keto. However, you are unlikely to hear a dentist complain about the effects of reduced sugars on your teeth. For more tips on how dieting trends can affect your oral health, contact Group Health Dental in New York.