Surprise: Omega-3 and exercise help prevent tooth decay and bone loss

Scientists have just discovered another unexpected benefit: regular exercise and omega-3 supplements can help protect teeth and prevent periodontitis, a silent disease that can lead to bone loss and tooth loss.

Regular exercise and omega-3 supplementation have long been considered two good habits for heart and brain health - Illustration photo

Research published in the journal Scientific Reports by a group of scientists from São Paulo State University (Brazil) has demonstrated that the combination of physical exercise and omega-3 supplementation not only helps regulate immunity, but also reduces inflammation and damage to tissues around the teeth, an important mechanism in preventing periodontal disease and protecting oral health.

Omega-3 is a group of unsaturated fatty acids, often found in salmon, mackerel, flaxseed, walnuts or vegetable oils. For many years, omega-3 has been famous for its ability to support the cardiovascular system, improve memory, reduce blood fat, fight inflammation and protect nerve cells.

From a biological perspective, omega-3s can inhibit the production of inflammatory cytokines, molecules that act as "alarm signals" that cause the immune system to overreact.

When combined with physical activity, which also improves blood circulation, increases immune cell production, and reduces oxidative stress, these two factors create a synergistic effect, helping the body control its inflammatory response more effectively.

"We found that exercise alone provided systemic immune benefits, but when combined with omega-3, the effects on bone tissue protection and reduced periapical inflammation were much stronger," said Professor Rogério de Castilho, who led the research team.

In the study, scientists induced periodontitis in 30 mice, which were then divided into three groups: a group that had no intervention, a group that swam for 30 consecutive days, and a group that exercised and received omega-3 supplements.

The results showed that the group that only exercised had a better immune response than the group that did not receive treatment, with less alveolar bone loss and significantly reduced inflammation. However, the group that both exercised and took omega-3 achieved the most outstanding results: the bone tissue around the teeth was almost not resorbed, inflammatory indicators such as interleukin-17 (IL-17) and TNF-α were deeply reduced, while the number of osteoclasts, which are the main "culprits" causing bone loss, was significantly reduced.

Micro-CT analysis of the jaw area showed that this group had stable bone density, healthy gingival tissue, and the lowest inflammatory response of the three groups.

Apical periodontitis or apical periodontitis usually begins silently due to tooth decay spreading into the root canal. When bacteria penetrate the apex of the tooth, they cause infection and prolonged inflammation in the bone tissue around the root.

The patient may not feel anything in the early stages, until pain, swelling or pus appear. If left untreated, the disease can cause bone loss, loose teeth, and even affect the cardiovascular system, kidneys and metabolism.

Professor Castilho added: "This is a condition that many people suffer from without knowing it, especially in people with weak immune systems or chronic diseases. In stages of reduced resistance, apical periodontitis can become acute, causing pain, swelling and serious complications."

Experts also note that apical periodontitis has a two-way relationship with many systemic diseases such as diabetes, atherosclerosis, metabolic syndrome or kidney disease. Chronic infection in the apical region can aggravate metabolic disorders, while these diseases cause periodontitis to progress more quickly.

Research from Brazil opens a new approach to dental care and preventative medicine. Although clinical trials in humans are still needed, the results suggest that maintaining an active lifestyle and a diet rich in omega-3s can help the body balance its inflammatory response while strengthening the immune system, two key factors in preventing gum disease.

The "double" effect of the exercise - omega 3 duo

Professor Ana Paula Fernandes Ribeiro, co-author of the study, emphasized: "In addition to brushing, rinsing or regular dental check-ups, simple changes such as regular exercise and adequate omega-3 supplementation can also become 'natural medicine' to protect our teeth and gums."

The combination of exercise and omega-3 therefore not only helps keep the heart healthy and the mind sharp, but also brings a lasting smile from within.

MINH HAI

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/bat-ngo-omega-3-va-tap-the-duc-giup-ngan-viem-rang-va-tieu-xuong-20251021093431269.htm