Issue #157: Is Flossing Really Necessary?
Good morning. It’s Tuesday, March 28th.
Today’s Quick Win
From the Lab: What’s In Your Mouth?
Speed Read: Finnish for a Week
Tuesday QR: Healthy Peanut Butter Cups
Bucket List: Spring Skiing
“You’re never fully dressed without a smile.”
Overall productivity losses in the US associated with untreated oral disease in 2015. (NIH)
From the Lab
We all know it – but not all of us do it…
Flossing matters.
Most of us have probably experienced bloody gums when we floss – especially if we don’t make it part of our daily routine (guilty!). But we can make the time.
In a study of over 50 twins, in just 2 weeks those that didn’t floss had “overabundant” bad pathogens and bacteria that are associated with gum disease – specifically streptococcus mutans and others.
The reason makes sense as these bacteria thrive in places without oxygen (like in between teeth). If left unchecked, the gums will recede and the bacteria gets into the ligament – creating a cavity.
Weak gums also become perfect places for everyday viruses to flourish – if you are starting to feel sick one of the first things to do is brush your teeth, tongue, and floss.
There isn’t causation – but these bacteria are also “associated” with inflammation and bigger problems, like Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, and heart disease.
On the flip side, the twins that did floss had much more of the “good” bacteria.
It’s really essential to keep this balance of bacteria in our mouth – the same way we do in our gut (Issue #23).
Here are some other tips to keep that healthy balance:
Brush Your Tongue – the microbiome of our tongue is actually different than the rest of our mouth and it’s important to keep clean. If you see any buildup or it’s more white than pink, you can even get a tongue scraper
Avoid Dry Mouth – saliva is key for a healthy mouth. Consistently hydrate throughout the day (drink water every hour you’re awake) and make sure you breathe through your nose (Issue #138)
Stay Away from Mouthwash – nearly every mouthwash, especially those with alcohol like Listerine, wipe out all the bacteria in your mouth (they even promise 99.9%) and that’s not good. If you feel like you need a little something for bad breath go with xylitol, sugar-free gum – like Pur - this also helps prevent dry mouth
BONUS TIP: How to Make Flossing (or any new mouth cleaning) a Habit
CUE: Actually Buy Floss (or even start with the picks if you know that you need to make it super easy to start)
CRAVING: Motivational Force - consider why you want or need a clean mouth for your health
RESPONSE: Eliminate Friction - make it so easy to do (floss is right next to toothbrush just staring at you)
REWARD: Create a Game or System with a Prize - put the floss on the counter next to your toothbrush and tie flossing to a reward. No morning smoothie until after flossing (Issue #93)
BONUS: Have an Accountability Partner - have someone check in with you to make sure you keep going! (Issue #116)
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Speed Read
Health & Longevity in the News
Master Your Inner Finn: If you’ve been reading, we’ve extolled Scandinavian happiness, especially Finland (Issues #89, 92, 101, 102, 152). The happiest country on Earth is offering a masterclass in…you guessed it, happiness. You’ve got until April 2nd to apply! (Read more)
Bucket List Reboot: In Issue #31, we highlighted the Pacific Crest Trail because of its beauty, variety and length. Here’s a how-to guide to help you with your trip and have a ton of fun! (Outside)
Cannabis for Sleep?: Outlook: hazy. The studies have been limited and the results mixed. So far low doses of THC improve sleep, high doses worsen it, but the inverse is true of CBD. Not to mention the swath of available products have varying levels of each. But there are promising signs for sleep issues like insomnia and sleep apnea. (NYTimes)
Tuesday QR (Quick Recipe)
It’s almost Easter. I’m a sucker for peanut butter cups. Got a great recipe for a healthy version of this holiday favorite. Check out this no sugar, keto-friendly version. Don’t worry, it’s got what you need - chocolate and peanut butter!
Bucket List | Spring Skiing
What’s better than skiing in shorts?
California got over 55 feet of snow this year (so far). Mammoth Mountain will probably have open slopes until July - that’s officially summer skiing!
If there was a year to book your trip for some spring skiing this is it. Here’s a list of 6 U.S. Resorts with Great Spring Skiing - but there are plenty more out there to enjoy for the next few months.
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The information in this newsletter is for informational purposes only and may not be appropriate or applicable based on your individual circumstances. Thrive25 Labs LLC does not provide medical, professional, or licensed advice. Please connect with your healthcare professional for medical advice specific to your health needs.