Vitamin C is widely known for its beneficial effects against inflammation and infection. This nutrient alone can also improve gum and tissue health. However, combining it with flavonoids like quercetin can cause an even more powerful effect. Like vitamin C, quercetin contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Taking a combination of vitamin C and quercetin can reduce inflammation and keep the gums healthy more effectively than just taking vitamin C alone. (Related: Stop dangerous periodontal disease with Vitamin C and CoQ10 supplements.)
This was proven in a study published in 2012, in which researchers recruited 60 healthy males between ages 19 and 23 to compare the effects of vitamin C alone, quercetin alone, a combination of the two, or a placebo. Participants were observed for eight weeks.
The results revealed that those who took the combination of vitamin C and quercetin experienced 50 to 60 percent improvements in inflammation and cell health compared to the 35 to 47 percent improvement in other groups. The researchers say that this effect may be attributed to the ability of vitamin C to support and regenerate quercetin in the body. In addition, vitamin C appears to improve and augment the antioxidant properties of quercetin and boost its bioavailability.
Together, these two key supplements can cause a more powerful effect against inflammation and cell damage, reducing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, respiratory problems, cancer, and premature death.
Aside from supplements, you can get vitamin C from foods, such as Kakadu plums, acerola cherries, rose hips, chili peppers, guavas, sweet yellow peppers, blackcurrants, thyme, parsley, mustard spinach, kale, kiwis, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, lemons, lychees, American persimmons, papayas, strawberries and oranges. You can also get quercetin from foods, such as capers, onions, elderberries, kale, okra, apple peels, aronia berries, cranberries, asparagus, and goji berries.
What causes periodontal disease?
Periodontal or gum disease is an infection of the tissues of the gum and bone surrounding the teeth. One of the common causes of this condition is poor brushing and flossing habits. The mouth is full of bacteria that constantly form a sticky, colorless plaque on teeth. Plaque that is not removed can harden and create tartar, which cannot be cleansed by brushing alone. Gum disease is also more likely to occur in people who smoke. Smoking can also make treatment for gum disease less successful. People who have diabetes, hormonal changes, and other health conditions and those who take medications that lessen saliva flow are more likely to suffer from periodontal disease. People with this condition typically experience the following:
- Foul breath that won't go away
- Loose teeth
- Pain when chewing
- Receding gums or longer appearing teeth
- Red or swollen gums
- Sensitive teeth
- Tender or bleeding gums
Read more news stories and studies on nutritional supplements for disease prevention by going to AlternativeMedicine.news.
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