Why Oral Health is as important as Gut Health

The importance of oral and gut health

Over the past few years, not only has there been an increased understanding of the importance of the gut microbiome, but also the relationship and 2 way flow of information between the gut and the brain. Each one influencing and shaping the other.

But now we have evidence of the interconnection between the mouth and the gut as the oral microbiome is just as important as the one in the gut.

A recent study in Nutrients has taken an in-depth look at all the research and literature available on the gut-oral link to uncover some fascinating information on this 2 way flow of communication.

Identifying Gut Bacteria

Gold standard stool testing that I use in my practice already identifies bacteria that have migrated from the oral cavity and taken up residence in the gut.

A small number may be acceptable but if the body’s natural defences are broken, larger numbers and species of bacteria can be seen and many of these are known to contribute to disease. They also lead to an imbalance of the beneficial bacteria in the gut creating a dysbiotic picture setting the scene for digestive problems.

How do bacteria end up in the gut?

By swallowing saliva. Over 1L of saliva is swallowed every day. Stomach acid should destroy most of these, but if levels are not optimal and/or the pathogens are particularly resilient, then some may survive and migrate further into the gastrointestinal tract.

Good and Bad Oral Bacteria

Just like the gut, there are “good” and “bad” oral species. There are believed to be over 700 species in total, some more well studied and understood than others. Some of the more pathogenic oral species may escape into the bloodstream if the oral defences are weaker. Inflamed gums that bleed easily create an easy route into the bloodstream, where they can easily travel around the body, having a detrimental effect and enhancing systemic inflammation.

How do gut microbes reach the mouth?

From contaminated food or water or poor hygiene.

All these microbes produce compounds called metabolites that either have a positive impact on the host cavity or a detrimental one.

Compounds like butyrate in the gut act as a fuel to the gut barrier, keeping it strong and helping to prevent the passage of toxins into the bloodstream. Butyrate also provides fuel to other beneficial bacteria.

But less favourable bacteria can produce metabolites that drive inflammation not just in the gut but around the body.

Oral microbes also produce either beneficial or detrimental compounds, acting in a similar way.

What can we do about Oral Bacteria?

Whilst there is still much to learn about the oral microbiome and this gut-oral axis, the knowledge we do have is sufficient to teach us to give as much focus to the oral microbiome as we should to the gut.

A fibre-rich diet, low in sugar, processed foods and alcohol. Ensure the diet is rich in omega-3 fatty acids with a wide, diverse plant base.

There should always be a strong emphasis on oral hygiene, not just cleaning teeth thoroughly but flossing and avoiding those strong mouthwashes that strip the mouth of beneficial bacteria. Oral probiotics (often as a mouthwash) are really helpful. And you may wish to try oil pulling, a traditional ayurvedic approach that helps to “pull” pathogenic bacteria from the mouth.

For more information on the MetaXplore metagenomic microbiome stool test, please get in touch.

https://www.peytonprinciples.com/

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Keep your eye out for more articles and Peyton Principles in the media.

Caroline

A little more about me…

Providing expert, personalised, health advice utilising 10 years of nutritional therapy and naturopathy experience with a strong emphasis on digestion and gut health. Zoom or face to face Consultations.

I also develop and deliver well-being in the workplace workshops.