Health and Me

Aarushi Bhadury

Poor Dental Health Could Be Linked To Chronic Health Condition

Our parents always ensure that we learned the importance of dental hygiene. Being taught from a young age, most of us are aware of how a lack of oral hygiene not only makes us sick but can make a bad impression of us on others. However, there may be a lot more to oral hygiene than we know. 

A new study suggests that <span>poor dental health</span> might be an early sign of serious long-term health problems like type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Researchers recently reported in the Journal of Oral Rehabilitation that people with signs of unhealthy mouths—such as missing teeth or a coated tongue—were also more likely to have high blood sugar, high cholesterol, and <span>reduced kidney function</span>. 

For the study, researchers followed 118 men and women aged 50 or older. They compared dental exam results from 2021 with physical exam results from both 2021 and 2023. The dental exams checked several aspects of oral health, including:

<ul><li>Tongue coating: How much buildup was on the tongue.</li><li>Mouth dryness: The level of moisture in the mouth.</li><li>Number of functional teeth: How many healthy teeth remained.</li><li>Tongue pressure: The strength of the tongue.</li><li>Chewing and swallowing ability: How well a person could perform these actions.</li><li>Oral Diadochokinesis (OD): A test measuring how quickly and accurately someone can repeat syllables (like "pa-ta-ka").</li></ul>

The study discovered clear links between a person's mouth health and their overall body health. People with high blood sugar often had fewer teeth left and struggled more with the speech clarity test. This suggests a link between diabetes risk and losing teeth or having weaker mouth muscles 

Those with high cholesterol frequently had a coated tongue and also performed poorly on the speech clarity test. This points to a surprising connection between fat levels in the blood and certain mouth signs. Individuals with reduced kidney function showed signs like a coated tongue, fewer healthy teeth, and poorer scores on the speech clarity test. This indicates that kidney problems might show up in mouth health. These results suggest that a decline in how well your mouth works might increase your risk for lifestyle-related diseases and make you more likely to become frail as you age. 

<h2>Why the Link? Possible Explanations </h2>

Scientists believe this connection could be due to unhealthy bacteria that grow when the mouth isn't well cared for, or because of inflammation (swelling and irritation) found in diseased gums and teeth. These problems in the mouth might then affect other parts of the body, leading to broader health issues. 

It’s important to remember that this study only observed a link; it doesn't directly prove that poor dental health causes these other illnesses. It's also possible that having chronic diseases might make it harder to maintain good oral health. 

More research with a larger number of people is needed to fully understand how mouth health and long-term diseases are connected. 

In the meantime, experts suggest it wouldn't hurt to include simple checks like counting teeth and doing speech clarity tests during regular doctor visits. These simple checks could potentially give early clues about hidden health problems. Keeping your mouth healthy is always a smart step for your overall well-being. 

Health Conditions A-Z

health

Poor Dental Health

Chronic Health Condition

serious long term health

early sign of serious health

reduced kidney function

lifestyle related diseases

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Our parents always ensure that we learned the importance of dental hygiene. Being taught from a young age, most of us are aware of how a lack of oral hygiene not only makes us sick but can make a bad impression of us on others. However, there may be a lot more to oral hygiene than we know. A new study suggests that poor dental health might be an early sign of serious long-term health problems like type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Researchers recently reported in the Journal of Oral Rehabilitation that people with signs of unhealthy mouths—such as missing teeth or a coated tongue—were also more likely to have high blood sugar, high cholesterol, and reduced kidney function. What the Study Examined For the study, researchers followed 118 men and women aged 50 or older. They compared dental exam results from 2021 with physical exam results from both 2021 and 2023. The dental exams checked several aspects of oral health, including:Tongue coating: How much buildup was on the tongue.Mouth dryness: The level of moisture in the mouth.Number of functional teeth: How many healthy teeth remained.Tongue pressure: The strength of the tongue.Chewing and swallowing ability: How well a person could perform these actions.Oral Diadochokinesis (OD): A test measuring how quickly and accurately someone can repeat syllables (like "pa-ta-ka").Oral-Systemic Connection The study discovered clear links between a person's mouth health and their overall body health. People with high blood sugar often had fewer teeth left and struggled more with the speech clarity test. This suggests a link between diabetes risk and losing teeth or having weaker mouth muscles Those with high cholesterol frequently had a coated tongue and also performed poorly on the speech clarity test. This points to a surprising connection between fat levels in the blood and certain mouth signs. Individuals with reduced kidney function showed signs like a coated tongue, fewer healthy teeth, and poorer scores on the speech clarity test. This indicates that kidney problems might show up in mouth health. These results suggest that a decline in how well your mouth works might increase your risk for lifestyle-related diseases and make you more likely to become frail as you age. Why the Link? Possible Explanations Scientists believe this connection could be due to unhealthy bacteria that grow when the mouth isn't well cared for, or because of inflammation (swelling and irritation) found in diseased gums and teeth. These problems in the mouth might then affect other parts of the body, leading to broader health issues. It’s important to remember that this study only observed a link; it doesn't directly prove that poor dental health causes these other illnesses. It's also possible that having chronic diseases might make it harder to maintain good oral health. What You Can Do Now More research with a larger number of people is needed to fully understand how mouth health and long-term diseases are connected. In the meantime, experts suggest it wouldn't hurt to include simple checks like counting teeth and doing speech clarity tests during regular doctor visits. These simple checks could potentially give early clues about hidden health problems. Keeping your mouth healthy is always a smart step for your overall well-being. 

poor dental health could be linked to chronic health condition

Supriya Ramesh

The Itchy Truth About Pads and Tampons: What Your Period Products Are Not Telling You

Credits: Canva

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For something that’s supposed to be a monthly saviour, your sanitary pad could actually be a trouble in disguise. If you’ve ever spent your period feeling itchy, sore, or just...off, you’re not imagining it. According to gynaecologist Dr Vaidehi Marathe, many conventional pads and tampons contain elements that don’t quite agree with your body.

Itchiness is a common complaint during menstruation, but most people blame sweat, heat, or hormones. The real problem, says Dr Marathe, might be your pad itself. Many commercial pads are loaded with synthetic materials, added fragrances, and chemical adhesives that can irritate the delicate skin in your intimate area. That persistent itch could be your body’s way of saying, please get this thing off me.

It doesn’t end with itching. If you’ve ever developed a rash down there during your period, Dr Marathe says your pad’s texture or material could be behind it. "Poor-quality materials or excessive friction can cause chafing, redness, and irritation," she says in an Instagram video. 

Even tampons, which many prefer for comfort and convenience, aren’t totally innocent. High-absorbency varieties are known to dry out the vaginal lining, leading to discomfort and even micro-tears. Dr Marathe warns that such dryness disturbs the natural balance of the vaginal mucosa, and that’s when things can start to get really unpleasant.

While menstruation has a natural odour, a strange or strong scent often comes from bacterial buildup, not your body. Pads, especially the non-breathable kind, can trap moisture and create a breeding ground for bacteria. Dr Marathe points out that the odour is often caused by bacteria thriving in that warm, moist environment. 

You don’t have to suffer for the sake of convenience. Look beyond the supermarket aisle. <span>Cloth pads</span>, menstrual cups, and period underwear are all gentler options that are free of harmful chemicals and better for your skin and the environment. They allow the area to breathe and are less likely to cause irritation or dryness.

Menstrual cups in particular have gained popularity for being economical, eco-friendly, and surprisingly comfortable once you get the hang of them.

Periods are already uncomfortable enough without adding allergic reactions, rashes, or infections to the mix. If you’re constantly battling irritation or feeling ‘off’ during your cycle, it’s worth examining what’s coming into contact with your skin for hours at a stretch. 

period rash

tampon dryness

menstrual cup

cloth pads

period panties

pad irritation

eco friendly period products

intimate itching

period odour

For something that’s supposed to be a monthly saviour, your sanitary pad could actually be a trouble in disguise. If you’ve ever spent your period feeling itchy, sore, or just...off, you’re not imagining it. According to gynaecologist Dr Vaidehi Marathe, many conventional pads and tampons contain elements that don’t quite agree with your body.Itchiness is a common complaint during menstruation, but most people blame sweat, heat, or hormones. The real problem, says Dr Marathe, might be your pad itself. Many commercial pads are loaded with synthetic materials, added fragrances, and chemical adhesives that can irritate the delicate skin in your intimate area. That persistent itch could be your body’s way of saying, please get this thing off me.Rashes, roughness, and frictionIt doesn’t end with itching. If you’ve ever developed a rash down there during your period, Dr Marathe says your pad’s texture or material could be behind it. "Poor-quality materials or excessive friction can cause chafing, redness, and irritation," she says in an Instagram video. Even tampons, which many prefer for comfort and convenience, aren’t totally innocent. High-absorbency varieties are known to dry out the vaginal lining, leading to discomfort and even micro-tears. Dr Marathe warns that such dryness disturbs the natural balance of the vaginal mucosa, and that’s when things can start to get really unpleasant.That smell isn’t just your periodWhile menstruation has a natural odour, a strange or strong scent often comes from bacterial buildup, not your body. Pads, especially the non-breathable kind, can trap moisture and create a breeding ground for bacteria. Dr Marathe points out that the odour is often caused by bacteria thriving in that warm, moist environment. Healthier swapsYou don’t have to suffer for the sake of convenience. Look beyond the supermarket aisle. Cloth pads, menstrual cups, and period underwear are all gentler options that are free of harmful chemicals and better for your skin and the environment. They allow the area to breathe and are less likely to cause irritation or dryness.Menstrual cups in particular have gained popularity for being economical, eco-friendly, and surprisingly comfortable once you get the hang of them.Your period deserves betterPeriods are already uncomfortable enough without adding allergic reactions, rashes, or infections to the mix. If you’re constantly battling irritation or feeling ‘off’ during your cycle, it’s worth examining what’s coming into contact with your skin for hours at a stretch. 

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Many people start their day with a glass of <span>lemon water</span>, hoping for a range of health benefits—from better skin to improved <span>digestion</span>. But what actually happens when you stick to this habit every day for a month? According to gastroenterologist <span>Dr Saurabh Sethi</span>, lemon water can offer some real advantages, as long as you are aware of a few important points.

Lemons are packed with more than 30 beneficial plant compounds, says Dr Sethi. These include <span>antioxidants</span> and anti-inflammatory agents that support your body's daily housekeeping on a cellular level.

But freshly squeezed is important. “Pasteurised lemon juice often loses a significant portion of its nutritional value,” Dr Sethi explains. 

While you are sipping away, thinking you are just hydrating enough, something pretty important is happening in the background. The natural acidity of lemons can help your body absorb minerals more effectively, particularly iron, according to Dr Sethi. That means your morning lemon ritual might be giving your iron supplements or spinach salads a bit of extra firepower.

And lemon water does not magically "alkalise" your body. But what it does do is help your digestive system set the stage for better nutrient uptake.

<strong>Skin Goals and <span rel="noindex">Collagen</span> Dreams</strong>

If you are secretly hoping for that elusive “glow-up” by day 30, you might be in luck. Lemons are a great source of <span>vitamin C</span>, a key player in the production of collagen, the protein responsible for keeping your skin firm, your joints cushioned, and your connective tissues in top shape.

Dr Sethi says that daily lemon water may support healthier skin from the inside out. Think of it as your internal skincare serum. 

As Dr Sethi points out, lemon water might not be ideal for everyone, especially those with <span>acid reflux</span> or sensitive stomachs. The very same acidity that helps with mineral absorption can irritate the oesophagus lining or worsen heartburn in susceptible folks. If you have ever felt that familiar burn after a glass of lemony water, your body is throwing a sign. 

lemon water

vitamin c

collagen

skin health

digestion

acid reflux

hydration

antioxidants

iron absorption

dr saurabh sethi

Many people start their day with a glass of lemon water, hoping for a range of health benefits—from better skin to improved digestion. But what actually happens when you stick to this habit every day for a month? According to gastroenterologist Dr Saurabh Sethi, lemon water can offer some real advantages, as long as you are aware of a few important points.Lemons Pack a Big PunchLemons are packed with more than 30 beneficial plant compounds, says Dr Sethi. These include antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents that support your body's daily housekeeping on a cellular level.But freshly squeezed is important. “Pasteurised lemon juice often loses a significant portion of its nutritional value,” Dr Sethi explains. Absorption Gets a BoostWhile you are sipping away, thinking you are just hydrating enough, something pretty important is happening in the background. The natural acidity of lemons can help your body absorb minerals more effectively, particularly iron, according to Dr Sethi. That means your morning lemon ritual might be giving your iron supplements or spinach salads a bit of extra firepower.And lemon water does not magically "alkalise" your body. But what it does do is help your digestive system set the stage for better nutrient uptake.Skin Goals and Collagen DreamsIf you are secretly hoping for that elusive “glow-up” by day 30, you might be in luck. Lemons are a great source of vitamin C, a key player in the production of collagen, the protein responsible for keeping your skin firm, your joints cushioned, and your connective tissues in top shape.Dr Sethi says that daily lemon water may support healthier skin from the inside out. Think of it as your internal skincare serum. The Bitter TruthAs Dr Sethi points out, lemon water might not be ideal for everyone, especially those with acid reflux or sensitive stomachs. The very same acidity that helps with mineral absorption can irritate the oesophagus lining or worsen heartburn in susceptible folks. If you have ever felt that familiar burn after a glass of lemony water, your body is throwing a sign. 

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Caring for a family member who has <span>dementia</span> is a herculean task. Not only does one have to be patient but also vigilant, keep track of things as well as find make sure to communicate with the person they are taking care of. Not many people feel up to the task and often experience caregiver’s burnout sooner or later. However, when a family member does get diagnosed with dementia, who usually steps up to the task? 

A recent small study reveals that two-thirds of nieces and nephews who care for an older relative with dementia never anticipated taking on that responsibility. These caregivers often found themselves in the role either gradually or due to family circumstances, according to findings published in The <span>Gerontologist</span>. 

One researcher noted that while this unplanned care shows immense love, it also hides a lot of stress. These caregivers juggle their own households, children, and jobs alongside their primary caregiving duties. 

Despite the unexpected nature of the role, these nieces and nephews often had strong, lifelong connections with their aunts and uncles. They were shaped by family ties to potentially become caregivers. 

Many participants expressed feeling like they were "paying back the love" their aunt or uncle showed them growing up. This suggests that when care comes from a place of genuine gratitude rather than just obligation, caregivers are more likely to persevere, even when resources are scarce and stress is high. 

For this study, researchers talked in depth with 20 nieces and 5 nephews who were caring for an aunt or uncle. These caregivers were between 38 and 67 years old and lived in several states. All of them either lived with their relative or saw them at least three times a week. 

This research is especially important now because as the population gets older, many more extended family members might find themselves in unexpected caregiving roles. 

<h2>Deep Family Bonds and <span rel="noindex">Unexpected Demands</span> </h2>

The study revealed that most of these caregivers grew up in the same town as their aunts and uncles. They often described their relatives as "fun" or their "favorite," someone they could talk to or get advice from. In a couple of families, the aunt was even like a second mother. These younger relatives kept strong connections with their aunts and uncles over the years. 

Despite these close bonds, most of the caregivers (19 out of 25) never expected to become primary caregivers. For example, one nephew took on the role because his wife and her sisters worked outside the home, and he had a flexible remote job. Another niece stepped in because her own mother, who was initially caring for the aunt, became too sick to continue. She even described tough situations where her aunt would throw food. 

The study also showed that a person's current life situation played a bigger part in them becoming a caregiver than factors like being single or not having children. Surprisingly, nearly half of the relatives with dementia had their own children still alive, and most had living brothers or sisters, yet the nieces and nephews still became the main caregivers. 

<h2>Recognizing Non-Traditional Caregivers </h2>

These findings highlight that support systems need to recognize that non-traditional caregivers, like nieces and nephews, are often stepping in to fill crucial roles. Understanding what these extended family caregivers go through gives a more complete picture of how families care for their loved ones. 

Learning about their experiences will help us figure out what support they're missing and create programs to help them stay healthy and well. This benefits everyone involved: the person with dementia, the caregiver, and society as a whole. 

Dementia

unexpected demands

gerontologist

Dementia Caregivers

Family Dementia Caregivers

caring for a sick family member

Caring for a family member who has dementia is a herculean task. Not only does one have to be patient but also vigilant, keep track of things as well as find make sure to communicate with the person they are taking care of. Not many people feel up to the task and often experience caregiver’s burnout sooner or later. However, when a family member does get diagnosed with dementia, who usually steps up to the task? A recent small study reveals that two-thirds of nieces and nephews who care for an older relative with dementia never anticipated taking on that responsibility. These caregivers often found themselves in the role either gradually or due to family circumstances, according to findings published in The Gerontologist. One researcher noted that while this unplanned care shows immense love, it also hides a lot of stress. These caregivers juggle their own households, children, and jobs alongside their primary caregiving duties. Driven by Love, Not Just Duty Despite the unexpected nature of the role, these nieces and nephews often had strong, lifelong connections with their aunts and uncles. They were shaped by family ties to potentially become caregivers. Many participants expressed feeling like they were "paying back the love" their aunt or uncle showed them growing up. This suggests that when care comes from a place of genuine gratitude rather than just obligation, caregivers are more likely to persevere, even when resources are scarce and stress is high. Who Are These Caregivers? For this study, researchers talked in depth with 20 nieces and 5 nephews who were caring for an aunt or uncle. These caregivers were between 38 and 67 years old and lived in several states. All of them either lived with their relative or saw them at least three times a week. This research is especially important now because as the population gets older, many more extended family members might find themselves in unexpected caregiving roles. Deep Family Bonds and Unexpected Demands The study revealed that most of these caregivers grew up in the same town as their aunts and uncles. They often described their relatives as "fun" or their "favorite," someone they could talk to or get advice from. In a couple of families, the aunt was even like a second mother. These younger relatives kept strong connections with their aunts and uncles over the years. Despite these close bonds, most of the caregivers (19 out of 25) never expected to become primary caregivers. For example, one nephew took on the role because his wife and her sisters worked outside the home, and he had a flexible remote job. Another niece stepped in because her own mother, who was initially caring for the aunt, became too sick to continue. She even described tough situations where her aunt would throw food. The study also showed that a person's current life situation played a bigger part in them becoming a caregiver than factors like being single or not having children. Surprisingly, nearly half of the relatives with dementia had their own children still alive, and most had living brothers or sisters, yet the nieces and nephews still became the main caregivers. Recognizing Non-Traditional Caregivers These findings highlight that support systems need to recognize that non-traditional caregivers, like nieces and nephews, are often stepping in to fill crucial roles. Understanding what these extended family caregivers go through gives a more complete picture of how families care for their loved ones. Learning about their experiences will help us figure out what support they're missing and create programs to help them stay healthy and well. This benefits everyone involved: the person with dementia, the caregiver, and society as a whole.  

dementia caregivers often end up being nieces and nephews of the family

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Poor Dental Health Could Be Linked To Chronic Health Condition

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