Riya Baibhawi

How Many Calories Do Astronauts Need In Space?

Sunita Williams

Astronauts consume more calories in space than on earth. But, in her recently shared video <span>Sunita Williams</span>, looked to have lost considerable weight while working at ISS. In the clip, released by <span>NASA</span>, however she confesses that she is measuring the same body weight when she started the mission. "Things shift around quite a bit. You probably heard of a fluid shift in which folks in space, their heads look a bit bigger because the fluid evens out along the body," she said in the video. 

<h2>How Many Calories Do Astronauts Need In Space?</h2>

All astronauts generally require 2,500 to 3,800 calories everyday, depending on their workload. Under the influence of microgravity, their body changes shape and thus, they tend to lose muscle and bone weight. Additionally, changes in metabolism and rigorous exercise routines can impact their weight. Caloric needs may also fluctuate based on mission demands, stressing the need for adaptable dietary strategies to maintain astronaut health and performance. According to the European Space Agency, astronauts have to exercise for at least two hours a day, six days a week to avoid quick muscle loss and bone loss in space.

<h2>Astronauts Get Maximum Calories From Prepacked Food</h2>

Since they need higher calories than on earth, two thirds of calorie intake comes from the basic food supply that are preselected and prepared by NASA for their entire space mission. The menu on International Space Station (ISS) provides around 50% of calories as carbohydrate, 17% as protein, and 31% as fat. Sunita Williams and her colleague Barry 'Butch' Wilmore are set to return to Earth on SpaceX's Crew-9 Dragon capsule not before February 2025.

<h2>What Does NASA Pack For Its Astronauts? </h2>

The prepacked are prepared carefully to boost longetivity. Rehydratable foods, such as soups and casseroles, are created through freeze-drying or spray-drying processes. Thermostabilized foods, like Japanese curry or yakitori, are ready-to-eat or can be warmed onboard. Irradiated foods, including meats and dairy, undergo ionizing radiation to extend shelf life and prevent microbial contamination. The packaging also contain intermediate moisture foods retain some water, offering a soft texture. Lastly, natural form foods, like nuts and chocolate bars, are packaged for immediate consumption, combining simplicity with <span>nutrition</span>.

<strong>ALSO READ:</strong> <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/nutrition/this-winter-fruit-is-great-for-lower-blood-pressure-and-sugar-article-151103628" data-type="tilCustomLink">This 6-Letter Winter Fruit Is Great To Lower Blood Pressure And Blood Sugar</a>

Maintaining bone and in fact, overall health in zero gravity requires a combination of rigorous physical activity along with good nutritional support. A study published in the <em>Journal of Bone and Mineral Research</em> demonstrated that heavy resistive exercise, combined with adequate intake of energy, protein, and vitamin D, is essential to preserve bone mineral density during extended space missions. The study highlighted the effectiveness of this approach after six months in a microgravity environment.

A separate 2023 NASA study further revealed the significant risks astronauts face if precautions aren't taken. Without countermeasures, weight-bearing bones lose approximately 1% of their density for every month spent in space, underscoring the critical need for targeted interventions to mitigate this loss. 

<strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/nutrition/7-power-packed-protein-shakes-for-muscle-building-and-bulking-article-151103599" data-type="tilCustomLink">7 Power-Packed Protein Shakes For Muscle Building And Bulking</a></strong>

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Astronauts consume more calories in space than on earth. But, in her recently shared video Sunita Williams, looked to have lost considerable weight while working at ISS. In the clip, released by NASA, however she confesses that she is measuring the same body weight when she started the mission. "Things shift around quite a bit. You probably heard of a fluid shift in which folks in space, their heads look a bit bigger because the fluid evens out along the body," she said in the video. How Many Calories Do Astronauts Need In Space?All astronauts generally require 2,500 to 3,800 calories everyday, depending on their workload. Under the influence of microgravity, their body changes shape and thus, they tend to lose muscle and bone weight. Additionally, changes in metabolism and rigorous exercise routines can impact their weight. Caloric needs may also fluctuate based on mission demands, stressing the need for adaptable dietary strategies to maintain astronaut health and performance. According to the European Space Agency, astronauts have to exercise for at least two hours a day, six days a week to avoid quick muscle loss and bone loss in space.Astronauts Get Maximum Calories From Prepacked FoodSince they need higher calories than on earth, two thirds of calorie intake comes from the basic food supply that are preselected and prepared by NASA for their entire space mission. The menu on International Space Station (ISS) provides around 50% of calories as carbohydrate, 17% as protein, and 31% as fat. Sunita Williams and her colleague Barry 'Butch' Wilmore are set to return to Earth on SpaceX's Crew-9 Dragon capsule not before February 2025.What Does NASA Pack For Its Astronauts? The prepacked are prepared carefully to boost longetivity. Rehydratable foods, such as soups and casseroles, are created through freeze-drying or spray-drying processes. Thermostabilized foods, like Japanese curry or yakitori, are ready-to-eat or can be warmed onboard. Irradiated foods, including meats and dairy, undergo ionizing radiation to extend shelf life and prevent microbial contamination. The packaging also contain intermediate moisture foods retain some water, offering a soft texture. Lastly, natural form foods, like nuts and chocolate bars, are packaged for immediate consumption, combining simplicity with nutrition.ALSO READ: This 6-Letter Winter Fruit Is Great To Lower Blood Pressure And Blood SugarWhat Does Science Say? Maintaining bone and in fact, overall health in zero gravity requires a combination of rigorous physical activity along with good nutritional support. A study published in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research demonstrated that heavy resistive exercise, combined with adequate intake of energy, protein, and vitamin D, is essential to preserve bone mineral density during extended space missions. The study highlighted the effectiveness of this approach after six months in a microgravity environment.A separate 2023 NASA study further revealed the significant risks astronauts face if precautions aren't taken. Without countermeasures, weight-bearing bones lose approximately 1% of their density for every month spent in space, underscoring the critical need for targeted interventions to mitigate this loss. ALSO READ: 7 Power-Packed Protein Shakes For Muscle Building And Bulking

astronauts need a 3,500-calorie diet in space. here's why

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"Yep, that's me. You're probably wondering how I ended up in this situation," is how the video opens up with a girl sitting in the ER getting IV drips. The reason? Her obsession <span>Matcha</span>. 

"If you drink a lot of matcha, you probably need to know this," says the US-based surgeon and education Dr <span>Karan Rajan</span> while reacting on the video. 

Matcha may be the Instagram-famous, antioxidant-packed drink of the decade, but sipping too much of it could come at a hidden cost—your body’s iron levels. In a recent video, Dr Rajan explained how heavy matcha consumption can interfere with iron absorption, potentially leading to iron deficiency anemia over time.

“Polyphenols like EGCG in moderate amounts have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects,” Dr. Rajan said. “But at very high cumulative doses, like several cups of matcha a day, these compounds can bind to non-haem iron in the gut and reduce iron absorption.”

According to him, clinical studies show that polyphenol-rich drinks like teas can reduce iron absorption by as much as 60–70% when consumed alongside iron-rich meals. While animal-based “heme iron” is less affected, plant-based “non-heme iron” is far more vulnerable. This means that women of reproductive age, vegans, or those with borderline iron levels could be particularly at risk.

His advice? Keep matcha away from meals. “If drinking matcha is your personality, make sure you drink it between meals, not with them,” he warned.

<h2>A Real Case: Green Tea and Iron Deficiency Anemia</h2>

Dr. Rajan’s caution is not without evidence. A striking case study published in<em> Clinical Case Reports </em>in 2016 detailed how long-term green tea consumption caused severe iron deficiency anemia in a 48-year-old businessman.

The patient, who had a two-decade habit of drinking over 1.5 liters of green tea every weekday, developed persistent fatigue and anemia. Initial blood tests revealed extremely low iron markers: ferritin at just 1.6 ng/mL (far below normal) and hemoglobin at 6.2 g/dL. Despite oral iron supplements, his hemoglobin levels only improved after he stopped tea consumption.

But when he resumed his green tea habit, the anemia returned—even though he continued taking iron supplements. Doctors confirmed a “rechallenge effect,” showing that green tea directly blocked iron absorption. His condition improved again when he switched to intravenous iron therapy and reduced his tea intake.

“Our patient’s case further confirms the relationship between tea and reduced iron absorption, not only by the improvement of iron deficiency anemia following abstinence from tea, but also by the recurrence of anemia upon a rechallenge of tea during continuous oral iron supplementation.”

This case underlines how powerful tea’s impact on iron can be—not just in theory, but in real life.

<h2>The Science Behind Matcha and Iron</h2>

So why does matcha, or green tea in general, interfere with iron absorption? The answer lies in its polyphenols, tannins, and oxalates—natural plant compounds that easily bind to iron molecules.

<em>Matcha.com</em> explains: “Research suggests that oxalates and tannins are some of the naturally occurring green tea compounds studied to impact iron absorption. Specifically, these compounds bind with non-heme iron in plant foods such as beans, peas, leafy green vegetables, and nuts.”

When this happens, the body absorbs less iron, and even the beneficial effects of matcha’s antioxidants may be reduced. For instance, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)—a major catechin in matcha—normally inhibits inflammation. But studies suggest that when EGCG binds with iron, it loses much of this protective power.

In other words, not only does matcha block iron from being absorbed, but iron also blocks some of matcha’s health benefits.

<h2>The One-Hour Rule: A Practical Solution</h2>

This doesn’t mean you need to ditch your daily matcha latte. Instead, experts suggest timing is everything.

“By simply spacing out the consumption of matcha from your iron-rich meals, you will be able to reap the healthful benefits of both,” notes Matcha.com. The general guideline is to wait at least one hour after eating an iron-rich meal or taking an iron supplement before drinking green tea or matcha.

Dr. Rajan echoed a similar sentiment in his video: keep your matcha habit separate from meals to reduce the risk of interfering with nutrient absorption.

While the average person drinking one or two cups a day is unlikely to face serious issues, some groups may need to be extra mindful:

<ul><li>Women of reproductive age – due to monthly blood loss, iron deficiency risk is already higher.</li><li>Vegans and vegetarians – since their iron primarily comes from non-heme sources, which are more affected by tea polyphenols.</li><li>Individuals with borderline or existing anemia – especially if fatigue and weakness are already present.</li><li>Heavy matcha or tea drinkers – those consuming several cups daily could unknowingly drift into deficiency.</li></ul>

The 2016 case report also highlighted that cultural and lifestyle habits—like drinking tea throughout the workday—can exacerbate the problem.

It’s important to stress that matcha isn’t “bad.” In fact, research highlights its many benefits, from reducing inflammation to lowering risk of diabetes and stroke. The 2015 <em>Dutch Dietary Guidelines</em> even recommended drinking three cups of tea daily for long-term health.

But like most things, balance matters. As the case report authors concluded, excessive tea consumption should not be overlooked as a potential cause of iron deficiency.

Dr. Rajan summed it up best with a dose of humor:

“If you’re drinking so much matcha it’s likely becoming a part of your blood volume and you’re constantly feeling wiped out, ask your doctor about ferritin and iron studies.”

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karan rajan

"Yep, that's me. You're probably wondering how I ended up in this situation," is how the video opens up with a girl sitting in the ER getting IV drips. The reason? Her obsession Matcha. "If you drink a lot of matcha, you probably need to know this," says the US-based surgeon and education Dr Karan Rajan while reacting on the video. Matcha may be the Instagram-famous, antioxidant-packed drink of the decade, but sipping too much of it could come at a hidden cost—your body’s iron levels. In a recent video, Dr Rajan explained how heavy matcha consumption can interfere with iron absorption, potentially leading to iron deficiency anemia over time.“Polyphenols like EGCG in moderate amounts have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects,” Dr. Rajan said. “But at very high cumulative doses, like several cups of matcha a day, these compounds can bind to non-haem iron in the gut and reduce iron absorption.”According to him, clinical studies show that polyphenol-rich drinks like teas can reduce iron absorption by as much as 60–70% when consumed alongside iron-rich meals. While animal-based “heme iron” is less affected, plant-based “non-heme iron” is far more vulnerable. This means that women of reproductive age, vegans, or those with borderline iron levels could be particularly at risk.His advice? Keep matcha away from meals. “If drinking matcha is your personality, make sure you drink it between meals, not with them,” he warned.A Real Case: Green Tea and Iron Deficiency AnemiaDr. Rajan’s caution is not without evidence. A striking case study published in Clinical Case Reports in 2016 detailed how long-term green tea consumption caused severe iron deficiency anemia in a 48-year-old businessman.The patient, who had a two-decade habit of drinking over 1.5 liters of green tea every weekday, developed persistent fatigue and anemia. Initial blood tests revealed extremely low iron markers: ferritin at just 1.6 ng/mL (far below normal) and hemoglobin at 6.2 g/dL. Despite oral iron supplements, his hemoglobin levels only improved after he stopped tea consumption.But when he resumed his green tea habit, the anemia returned—even though he continued taking iron supplements. Doctors confirmed a “rechallenge effect,” showing that green tea directly blocked iron absorption. His condition improved again when he switched to intravenous iron therapy and reduced his tea intake.The report concluded:“Our patient’s case further confirms the relationship between tea and reduced iron absorption, not only by the improvement of iron deficiency anemia following abstinence from tea, but also by the recurrence of anemia upon a rechallenge of tea during continuous oral iron supplementation.”This case underlines how powerful tea’s impact on iron can be—not just in theory, but in real life.The Science Behind Matcha and IronSo why does matcha, or green tea in general, interfere with iron absorption? The answer lies in its polyphenols, tannins, and oxalates—natural plant compounds that easily bind to iron molecules.Matcha.com explains: “Research suggests that oxalates and tannins are some of the naturally occurring green tea compounds studied to impact iron absorption. Specifically, these compounds bind with non-heme iron in plant foods such as beans, peas, leafy green vegetables, and nuts.”When this happens, the body absorbs less iron, and even the beneficial effects of matcha’s antioxidants may be reduced. For instance, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)—a major catechin in matcha—normally inhibits inflammation. But studies suggest that when EGCG binds with iron, it loses much of this protective power.In other words, not only does matcha block iron from being absorbed, but iron also blocks some of matcha’s health benefits.The One-Hour Rule: A Practical Solution        View this post on Instagram            A post shared by Dr Karan Rajan (@drkaranrajan)]]>This doesn’t mean you need to ditch your daily matcha latte. Instead, experts suggest timing is everything.“By simply spacing out the consumption of matcha from your iron-rich meals, you will be able to reap the healthful benefits of both,” notes Matcha.com. The general guideline is to wait at least one hour after eating an iron-rich meal or taking an iron supplement before drinking green tea or matcha.Dr. Rajan echoed a similar sentiment in his video: keep your matcha habit separate from meals to reduce the risk of interfering with nutrient absorption.Who Should Be More Cautious?While the average person drinking one or two cups a day is unlikely to face serious issues, some groups may need to be extra mindful:Women of reproductive age – due to monthly blood loss, iron deficiency risk is already higher.Vegans and vegetarians – since their iron primarily comes from non-heme sources, which are more affected by tea polyphenols.Individuals with borderline or existing anemia – especially if fatigue and weakness are already present.Heavy matcha or tea drinkers – those consuming several cups daily could unknowingly drift into deficiency.The 2016 case report also highlighted that cultural and lifestyle habits—like drinking tea throughout the workday—can exacerbate the problem.Matcha: A Double-Edged SwordIt’s important to stress that matcha isn’t “bad.” In fact, research highlights its many benefits, from reducing inflammation to lowering risk of diabetes and stroke. The 2015 Dutch Dietary Guidelines even recommended drinking three cups of tea daily for long-term health.But like most things, balance matters. As the case report authors concluded, excessive tea consumption should not be overlooked as a potential cause of iron deficiency.Dr. Rajan summed it up best with a dose of humor:“If you’re drinking so much matcha it’s likely becoming a part of your blood volume and you’re constantly feeling wiped out, ask your doctor about ferritin and iron studies.”

is your matcha messing up with your iron levels?

Morning Coffee Benefits: Is That First Cup Helping You Or Secretly Harming Your Health? Find Out

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Picture this: it’s a new morning, your alarm is blaring, and the world outside your blanket feels like a cold, unwelcoming place. You need to get ready for work, but there’s only one thing that can get you out of bed, coffee.

What may surprise you is that your daily cup of joe doesn’t just wake you up. When enjoyed in the morning, even on an empty stomach, it can offer a range of health benefits. So before you reach for breakfast, let’s look at why that first sip of coffee might be exactly what your body needs.

<h2><span rel="noindex">Morning Coffee</span>: Is It Good or Bad for Your Health?</h2>

If you enjoy your coffee first thing in the morning, there may be more benefits to that habit than just feeling awake. Research published in the European Heart Journal found that people who drank coffee mainly in the morning had a lower overall risk of death and a reduced risk of dying from cardiovascular disease compared with those who drank coffee throughout the day.

The study, led by Dr. Lu Qi of Tulane University in New Orleans, also noted that coffee doesn’t appear to raise the risk of cardiovascular disease. In fact, previous research has linked it to a lower risk of certain chronic illnesses, including type 2 diabetes.

The January 2025 paper highlighted a striking finding, those who drank coffee before noon had a 16% lower risk of death from any cause and a 31% lower risk of death from heart disease compared with people who didn’t drink coffee at all.

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/nutrition/your-morning-coffee-could-help-lower-your-risk-of-heart-diseases-article-151119402" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Your Morning Coffee Could Help Lower Your Risk Of Heart Diseases</a>

But why does timing matter? In the morning, the body naturally experiences a surge in sympathetic activity, the system that helps us wake up and feel alert. This effect tapers off during the day and is at its lowest during sleep. Drinking coffee late in the day can interfere with this rhythm, often leading to sleep problems. Coffee is also known to suppress melatonin, the hormone that signals the brain when it’s time to rest, which may explain why afternoon or evening cups can be bad for your health.

How Much Coffee Is Safe for Women to Drink Each Day?

Even something as enjoyable as coffee can be too much of a good thing. Drinking too much caffeinated coffee can make you feel jittery and may cause:

<ul><li>Increased heart rate</li><li>Raised blood pressure</li><li>Anxiety</li><li>Trouble falling asleep</li></ul>So what’s the right amount to enjoy the benefits without the drawbacks? According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, most women can safely have three to five cups of coffee a day, with a maximum caffeine intake of 400 milligrams.

Pregnant or breastfeeding? The rules change. It’s best to check with your doctor before adding caffeine to your diet. And if coffee tends to make you jittery, remember that caffeine tolerance differs from person to person. Even one cup a day or decaf can offer some of the potential health perks.

ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/icmr-flags-misuse-of-critical-drugs-suggests-new-antibiotics-be-sold-only-in-hospitals-article-152838233" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank"> ICMR Flags Misuse Of Critical Drugs, Suggests New Antibiotics Be Sold Only In Hospitals</a>

While coffee is a delightful part of your routine, other factors like a balanced diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight have a bigger impact on overall health. Enjoying your cup of coffee can complement these habits, making it a simple addition to a healthy lifestyle.

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Picture this: it’s a new morning, your alarm is blaring, and the world outside your blanket feels like a cold, unwelcoming place. You need to get ready for work, but there’s only one thing that can get you out of bed, coffee.What may surprise you is that your daily cup of joe doesn’t just wake you up. When enjoyed in the morning, even on an empty stomach, it can offer a range of health benefits. So before you reach for breakfast, let’s look at why that first sip of coffee might be exactly what your body needs.Morning Coffee: Is It Good or Bad for Your Health?If you enjoy your coffee first thing in the morning, there may be more benefits to that habit than just feeling awake. Research published in the European Heart Journal found that people who drank coffee mainly in the morning had a lower overall risk of death and a reduced risk of dying from cardiovascular disease compared with those who drank coffee throughout the day.The study, led by Dr. Lu Qi of Tulane University in New Orleans, also noted that coffee doesn’t appear to raise the risk of cardiovascular disease. In fact, previous research has linked it to a lower risk of certain chronic illnesses, including type 2 diabetes.The January 2025 paper highlighted a striking finding, those who drank coffee before noon had a 16% lower risk of death from any cause and a 31% lower risk of death from heart disease compared with people who didn’t drink coffee at all.ALSO READ: Your Morning Coffee Could Help Lower Your Risk Of Heart DiseasesBut why does timing matter? In the morning, the body naturally experiences a surge in sympathetic activity, the system that helps us wake up and feel alert. This effect tapers off during the day and is at its lowest during sleep. Drinking coffee late in the day can interfere with this rhythm, often leading to sleep problems. Coffee is also known to suppress melatonin, the hormone that signals the brain when it’s time to rest, which may explain why afternoon or evening cups can be bad for your health.How Much Coffee Is Safe for Women to Drink Each Day?Even something as enjoyable as coffee can be too much of a good thing. Drinking too much caffeinated coffee can make you feel jittery and may cause:Increased heart rateRaised blood pressureAnxietyTrouble falling asleepSo what’s the right amount to enjoy the benefits without the drawbacks? According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, most women can safely have three to five cups of coffee a day, with a maximum caffeine intake of 400 milligrams.Pregnant or breastfeeding? The rules change. It’s best to check with your doctor before adding caffeine to your diet. And if coffee tends to make you jittery, remember that caffeine tolerance differs from person to person. Even one cup a day or decaf can offer some of the potential health perks.ALSO READ: ICMR Flags Misuse Of Critical Drugs, Suggests New Antibiotics Be Sold Only In HospitalsWhile coffee is a delightful part of your routine, other factors like a balanced diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight have a bigger impact on overall health. Enjoying your cup of coffee can complement these habits, making it a simple addition to a healthy lifestyle.

morning coffee benefits: is that first cup helping you or secretly harming your health? find out

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A new study published in the <em>J</em><em>ournal of Periodontology</em> highlights that people in the UK who follow a Mediterranean-style diet may enjoy better gum health and lower levels of <span>gum disease</span>. Conducted by researchers at King’s College London, the findings show a link between diet, inflammation, and periodontal disease severity.

The research evaluated 200 hospital patients who were part of the King’s College London Oral, Dental and Craniofacial Biobank. Participants underwent dental examinations, provided blood samples, and completed detailed dietary questionnaires.

The analysis revealed that individuals whose diets resembled the <span>Mediterranean</span> pattern, rich in legumes, vegetables, fruits, and olive oil, had lower levels of gum disease and systemic inflammation. On the other hand, patients who consumed diets high in red meat and deviated from the Mediterranean model were more likely to present with severe gum disease.

Researchers also measured circulating inflammatory markers. People with less healthy diets showed higher levels of Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and C-reactive protein (CRP), both indicators of systemic inflammation. In contrast, those following a plant-rich diet had lower levels of these markers.

<h2>Why the <span rel="noindex">Mediterranean Diet</span> Matters</h2>

The Mediterranean diet is widely recognized for its emphasis on whole, nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and healthy fats like olive oil. It has already been associated with a reduced risk of major chronic illnesses, including heart disease, certain cancers, and neurodegenerative disorders.

According to the researchers, diet plays a significant role in human health by influencing the immune system and inflammation. This effect largely depends on the types of molecules present in food, including macronutrients, micronutrients, and phytochemicals. Plant-based diets are often rich in these components, which may contribute to reduced inflammation throughout the body.

The study’s findings add weight to the idea that gum disease should not only be treated with dental procedures but also considered in the broader context of lifestyle and diet.

Dr. Giuseppe Mainas, first author of the study and postdoctoral researcher at King’s College London, noted:

“Our findings suggest that a balanced, Mediterranean-type diet could potentially reduce gum disease and systemic inflammation. We observed that there may be a connection between periodontal disease severity, diet, and inflammation. These aspects should be holistically considered when assessing treatment for periodontitis in patients.”

<h2>A Step Toward Better Oral Health</h2>

Professor Luigi Nibali, lead author and Professor of Periodontology at King’s College London, emphasized the growing importance of <span>nutrition</span> in dental health.

“There is emerging evidence about the role that a balanced diet might have in maintaining a periodontal healthy status. Our research shows the potential effect that a nutrient-dense, plant-rich diet could play in improving the nation’s gum health. Nevertheless, more investigation is needed to develop personalized approaches to help people manage their gum health,” he said.

The research is an important step in understanding how dietary choices affect oral and systemic health. While more studies are needed to confirm the long-term effects and create practical dietary guidelines for gum health, the message is clear: what we eat may directly influence not just our heart and brain, but also the health of our gums.

mediterranean diet for gum health

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mediterranean

gum disease

A new study published in the Journal of Periodontology highlights that people in the UK who follow a Mediterranean-style diet may enjoy better gum health and lower levels of gum disease. Conducted by researchers at King’s College London, the findings show a link between diet, inflammation, and periodontal disease severity.What the Study FoundThe research evaluated 200 hospital patients who were part of the King’s College London Oral, Dental and Craniofacial Biobank. Participants underwent dental examinations, provided blood samples, and completed detailed dietary questionnaires.The analysis revealed that individuals whose diets resembled the Mediterranean pattern, rich in legumes, vegetables, fruits, and olive oil, had lower levels of gum disease and systemic inflammation. On the other hand, patients who consumed diets high in red meat and deviated from the Mediterranean model were more likely to present with severe gum disease.Researchers also measured circulating inflammatory markers. People with less healthy diets showed higher levels of Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and C-reactive protein (CRP), both indicators of systemic inflammation. In contrast, those following a plant-rich diet had lower levels of these markers.Why the Mediterranean Diet MattersThe Mediterranean diet is widely recognized for its emphasis on whole, nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and healthy fats like olive oil. It has already been associated with a reduced risk of major chronic illnesses, including heart disease, certain cancers, and neurodegenerative disorders.According to the researchers, diet plays a significant role in human health by influencing the immune system and inflammation. This effect largely depends on the types of molecules present in food, including macronutrients, micronutrients, and phytochemicals. Plant-based diets are often rich in these components, which may contribute to reduced inflammation throughout the body.Implications for Gum DiseaseThe study’s findings add weight to the idea that gum disease should not only be treated with dental procedures but also considered in the broader context of lifestyle and diet.Dr. Giuseppe Mainas, first author of the study and postdoctoral researcher at King’s College London, noted:“Our findings suggest that a balanced, Mediterranean-type diet could potentially reduce gum disease and systemic inflammation. We observed that there may be a connection between periodontal disease severity, diet, and inflammation. These aspects should be holistically considered when assessing treatment for periodontitis in patients.”A Step Toward Better Oral HealthProfessor Luigi Nibali, lead author and Professor of Periodontology at King’s College London, emphasized the growing importance of nutrition in dental health.“There is emerging evidence about the role that a balanced diet might have in maintaining a periodontal healthy status. Our research shows the potential effect that a nutrient-dense, plant-rich diet could play in improving the nation’s gum health. Nevertheless, more investigation is needed to develop personalized approaches to help people manage their gum health,” he said.The research is an important step in understanding how dietary choices affect oral and systemic health. While more studies are needed to confirm the long-term effects and create practical dietary guidelines for gum health, the message is clear: what we eat may directly influence not just our heart and brain, but also the health of our gums.

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