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Telling kids to
go outside and play may be good for their gums.
According to a
study in the Journal of Periodontology, sunlight
contributes to healthy teeth and bones. Even a little
bit of sun helps the body make vitamin D. (Fifteen
minutes twice a week to the face, arms, hand or back is
usually enough.) Vitamin D, in turn, helps the body
absorb calcium.
Too little
vitamin D may be a risk factor for periodontal disease.
"Numerous studies indicate that vitamin D and calcium
deficiencies result in bone loss and increased
inflammation," said Dr. Charles Hildebolt, Department of
Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine in
St. Louis. "Inflammation is a well-recognized symptom of
periodontal diseases, which is why it has been suggested
that calcium and vitamin D deficiency may be a risk
factor for periodontal diseases."
Scientists say
that many infectious diseases are linked with low levels
of vitamin D. Vitamin D suppresses production of
proinflammatory cytokines, which are molecules that have
destructive effects throughout the body.
"Periodontal
disease increases the production of cytokines, but it
has been demonstrated that vitamin D can suppress
cytokine production, and possibly decrease the risk of
periodontal disease," said Dr. Hildebolt.
Other sources
of vitamin D include foods fortified with the vitamin,
including milk, eggs, sardines and tuna fish. |
