A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry suggests your aunt’s favorite drink might be able to prevent tooth decay and fight gum disease. Researchers in Madrid, Spain, looked into how polyphenols, a compound found in red wine, interact with pathogens often found inside the human mouth. During the study, researchers examined the effects of two polyphenols in red wine on the strains of bacteria that accumulate inside the mouth and lead to plaque, cavities, and gum disease. They then compared the results to the effect of polyphenols found in grape seeds and red wine extract supplements. The polyphenols and extracts all reduced the bacteria’s ability to stick to cells, but the wine polyphenols were most effective in inhibiting pathogenic bacteria. It’s worth noting that this study is limited, considering it was conducted outside of the human body with cells that simulated gum tissue. However, this preliminary research
is promising and may open the door to discovering new dental treatments.
This isn’t a free pass for patients to have a glass of wine with every meal, mind you. Red wine is still prone to staining teeth. Plus, as the British Dental Association’s scientific advisor, Professor Damien Walmsley, pointed out, “The acidic nature of wine means that consuming a lot of these drinks will damage the enamel of the teeth.” In regard to overall health, there is plenty more research that proves that drinking less alcohol of any kind decreases a person’s chances of suffering from a range of diseases and lowers their risk of mortality. Should patients bring up the pros of polyphenols in red wine, it’s worth pointing out that there are many other healthier foods full of polyphenols. If patients really want to add more polyphenols to their diet, try recommending blueberries, raspberries, black grapes, cherries, beans, or green tea.
Research Suggests RedWine Improves Oral Health A GLASS A DAY?
Green Bean and Sesame Salad
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If you need an easy, healthy side dish with plenty of flavor, this green bean salad will be the perfect addition to your summer menu.
DIRECTIONS
INGREDIENTS
1. Bring a large saucepan of water to boil; cook green beans for 4–5 minutes; drain well.
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3 cups green beans, ends trimmed 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted 1 small red onion, finely chopped 1 tablespoon olive oil
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2. In a blender, mix finely chopped mint and parsleywith olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Blend until combined. 3. Add dressing, onion, and sesame seeds to beans. Toss together. Cool dish, then refrigerate until ready to serve.
Small bunch of fresh mint
Small bunch of flat-leaf parsley
Salt and pepper, to taste
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