A recent study has suggested that whole grain carbs are healthier for your teeth and gums when it comes to carb related foods. The WHO found that whole grain carbohydrates help improve oral health. There wasn't any definitive result on the association between the total amount of starch eaten and tooth decay, but it was found that more processed forms of starch increased the risk of cavities. This is because the amylase found in the saliva can break down these carbohydrates into sugars which are essentially dangerous to the body.
Another study also found that consuming whole grain diets might help combat gum diseases. Even so, the study is backed by limited data and requires further research. Lead researcher Paula Moynihan, said, "The evidence suggests that a diet rich in whole grain carbohydrates is less likely to damage your oral health than one containing processed starches."
Their review included 33 papers on studies of foods containing rapidly digestible starches such as white bread, crackers, biscuits, cakes, pretzels and slowly digestible starches like whole grains, legumes, and their relationships with dental problems, oral cancer and gum (periodontal) disease. So, are you switching to a whole grain diet? Stay tuned for more updates.
