ALWAYS REMEMBER TO FLOSS Diabetes Healthy Gums, Healthy Body
According to a report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) nearly one-half of all Americans over the age of 30 have some form of gum disease. This percentage only increases with age as 70% of people over the age of 65 suffer from this ailment. Taking care of your gums is extremely important because new reports come out every year tying gum disease to many illnesses and conditions that can affect other areas of your body. Here are a few: Heart Health Multiple studies have shown an association between gum disease and heart disease. While a direct cause and effect has not been proven, research suggests that gum disease increases the risk of heart disease. Bacteria from the mouth can find their way into the bloodstream and produce protein, which can increase the chance of getting blood clots. Eventually, if blood flow becomes too badly affected, a heart attack could occur. Lung Infections People with gum disease have more bacteria in their mouths than people who don’t. Lung and chest infections can occur by simply breathing in droplets of certain bacteria that can travel from the mouth to the lungs. In fact, chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, and other respiratory illnesses can be tied back to gum disease. This creates a dangerous predicament for those with weakened immune systems since they already struggle fighting dangerous infections.
In general, people with diabetes are
more likely to develop infections than other people. This includes gum disease. In
addition, gum disease can raise an individual’s blood sugar, putting people with diabetes at greater risk of further
complications. Newer research has also shown that people with gum disease are more likely to develop diabetes.
As more and more information comes out about gum disease and its effects on our bodies, it behooves us to keep our gums healthy and happy by developing one of the easiest and most effective habits: flossing every day. Simply flossing once a day can improve gum health rather quickly. If tenderness, gum recession, or swelling persist, it’s best to visit your dental provider for a checkup. It could save more than your teeth.
SMILE-FRIENDLY RECIPES
BRAIN BREAK!
CELTIC YULE CUPCAKES
Want to add a traditional twist to your holiday season? Try these Celtic Yule cupcakes — a modern dessert for an ancient celebration.
• 2 eggs • 1/2 cup butter Ingredients
• 1 1/4 cups flour • 3/4 tsp baking powder • 1 tbsp milk • 1 1/3 cups raisins • 2 tbsp hot water • 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract • Orange zest, to taste • 2/3 cup sugar
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 375 F. 2. In a large bowl, beat together the eggs, butter, vanilla, orange zest, and sugar. 3. Add the flour and baking powder, then fold in the milk and raisins. Inspired by RecipesForAPaganSoul.weebly.com
4. Grease a cupcake tin before pouring the batter into it. 5. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until cooked through. Let cool. 6. In a small bowl, blend the hot water and powdered sugar to create the icing. 7. Ice your cupcakes and serve!
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