About 1 in 5 Americans have digestive diseases such as acid reflux or irritable bowel syndrome.1
On topic with Dr. Dill:
It’s time for a gut check (literally) about your oral health
It may be called gut health but it actually concerns your whole body. Research links your gut to oral health issues like gum disease and other conditions such as anxiety and depression. It’s even been associated with autoimmune diseases, when the body attacks its own healthy tissues.
Maintaining a healthy balance of bacteria is the key to good gut health. The bacteria in your gut help your body digest food, absorb nutrients, keep your pH balanced and defend against diseases. The gut also plays a critical role in your body’s immune response.
Your gut and mouth can become unhealthy due to several conditions such as being under a lot of stress, not getting enough sleep or eating too much sugar. Signs of an unhealthy gut may include an upset stomach, weight changes, insomnia, heartburn or diarrhea.
An unhealthy gut can’t do its job of protecting and defending the rest of your body including your mouth. That’s because bad bacteria in your gut or mouth can spread to other areas of your body and increase your risk of health problems including heart, respiratory and autoimmune diseases.
Improve your gut and oral health
Check with your physician or dentist if you’re experiencing acid reflux or other discomfort in your gut. They can recommend a solution that’s right for you.
1National Institutes of Health