Plant-based anti-inflammatory diet helps reduce gingivitis, finds clinical trial

A plant-based anti-inflammatory whole food diet reduces gingivitis finds a clinical trial. The trial has been published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology.

Dr Johan P. Woelber at Department of Operative Dentistry and Periodontology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany and colleagues conducted a study to investigate the influence of an anti‐inflammatory diet on different parameters in patients with gingivitis.

Gingivitis is a common periodontal disease usually due to poor oral hygiene that causes irritation, inflammation of the gingiva, the part of your gum around the base of your teeth. can lead to much more serious gum disease called periodontitis and tooth loss.

An anti-inflammatory diet consists of foods that reduce inflammatory responses. This diet involves replacing sugary, refined foods with whole, nutrient-rich foods. It also contains increased amounts of antioxidants, which are reactive molecules in food that reduce the number of free radicals.

For the trial, 30 patients with gingivitis were randomized to an experimental and a control group. The experimental group changed to a diet low in processed carbohydrates and animal proteins, and rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C, vitamin D, antioxidants, plant nitrates, and fibers for four weeks. The control group did not change their diet. All participants suspended the use of dental floss and other tools to clean between their teeth.

Although there were no differences regarding plaque values, the experimental group experienced a significant reduction in gingival bleeding. They also showed an increase in vitamin D values and weight loss.

"Study results clearly demonstrate the possibility to naturally reduce gingivitis by an optimized diet that also promotes general health. According to this, dental teams should address dietary habits and give adequate recommendations in the treatment of gingivitis, since it might be a side effect of a pro-inflammatory western diet," said lead author Dr. Johan Woelber, of the University of Freiburg, in Germany.