We reflect on the links between high cholesterol and oral health as part of National Cholesterol Month, which is promoted every October in the UK.
NHS data shows that ‘high cholesterol’ – or hyperlipidaemia – affects approximately 59% of the UK population. However, not all cholesterol is harmful to the body and it’s important to understand the issue in order to better educate ourselves, friends, family members or patients.
We often talk about ‘good’ and ‘bad’ cholesterol. According to the British Heart Foundation, ‘good’ cholesterol is high-density lipoprotein (HDL) that carries cholesterol in the blood to and from cells. This is an essential function in maintaining heart health and reducing the risk of adverse cardiac affects like a stroke or heart attack. HDL levels should be above 1.0mmol/L for men and above 1.2mmol/L for women.
‘Bad’ cholesterol is the opposite – low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or non-HDL that cause the build-up of fatty deposits in the arteries, increasing blood pressure and the risk of cardiac problems. Healthy people will exhibit levels of LDL below 3.0mmol/L or 2.0mmol/L for men and women respectively, or below 4.0mmol/L of non-HDL. ‘High cholesterol’, therefore, refers more specifically to raised levels of the ‘bad’ stuff.
What does this all have to do with dentistry? Well, the literature shows that periodontal disease is associated with high levels of LDL, as well as a low levels of HDL. This demonstrates one of the many links between dental and systemic health, and offers yet another motivation for individuals to enhance their oral hygiene. The exact mechanisms are not yet known so a causal relationship hasn’t been proven, but there is early evidence in animal studies that suggest high ‘bad’ cholesterol can cause periodontal inflammation.
This year’s national campaign is encouraging habits that promote balanced cholesterol levels. In particular, it is focusing on diet, with the 1-2-3-4-5 Food Challenge. This invites participants to introduce one new healthy food habit each week of the month…
Week 1 – One meat-free day a week
Week 2 – Two portions of fish a week, or a daily serving of plant omega-3
Week 3 – Three servings of wholegrains a day
Week 4 – Four portions of beans or pulses a week
Week 5 – Five portions of fruit and veg every day
Even if you’re starting a little late, any positive changes you can make to your diet will be good for your wellbeing – body and mouth!
>Since you’re here, why not read about the links between childhood trauma and dental phobia?
Main image credit: Unsplash
