[Sportschosun Reporter Jang Jong-ho] A study has found that maintaining a low-calorie diet for six days may help reduce gum inflammation and lower the risk of periodontal disease.
The researchers analyzed that short-term dietary restriction could reduce inflammatory responses in the mouth and have a positive effect on gum health.
Researchers from universities in the United Kingdom and Spain recently analyzed the effects of calorie restriction over a set period on gum disease. They reported in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology that participants who followed a low-calorie diet showed a clear reduction in gum inflammation markers.
The study involved 28 patients at a hospital in Spain. The participants were divided into two groups. One group maintained their usual eating habits, while the other took part in a restricted diet program.
The low-calorie diet provided about 1,100 kcal per day for the first two days, then limited intake to around 750 kcal per day for the next three days. On the sixth day, participants gradually increased their intake, focusing on soft foods. From the seventh day, they returned to a normal diet. The program was repeated three times over six months. As a result, the group that followed the low-calorie diet showed a significant decrease in gum inflammation levels. Gum inflammation is one of the key indicators used to assess the progression of gum disease, including gingivitis and periodontitis.
The researchers explained, "There may be several reasons why fasting or calorie restriction can help patients with gum disease." They added, "Fasting may help reduce oxidative stress in the body and contribute to easing inflammation."
They continued, "High-calorie foods such as cake and biscuits, as well as refined carbohydrates, can promote inflammatory responses." They added, "Limiting these foods also helps reduce oxidative stress."
The researchers also advised, "Because an extremely low-calorie diet can cause side effects depending on a person's health condition, expert consultation is necessary if it is followed for a long period or used for treatment purposes."
Jang Jong-ho, bellho@sportschosun.com
