Prehistoric Humans Had Better Teeth Than Us: The Link Between Diet and Dental Health
Despite our advanced dental hygiene practices, modern humans have less healthy teeth than our prehistoric ancestors. This paradox can be traced back to a fundamental shift in our diet that occurred with the advent of farming.
The Role of Diet in Dental Health
The transition from a hunter-gatherer lifestyle to an agricultural one brought about a significant change in the types of foods we consumed. Our ancestors’ diet, which consisted primarily of meat, nuts, and vegetables, was low in carbohydrates and sugars. However, with the introduction of grains and processed foods, our carbohydrate intake increased dramatically.
This dietary shift had a profound impact on the oral microbiome, the community of bacteria that live in our mouths. Certain types of bacteria, particularly those that thrive on carbohydrates, began to dominate over the “friendly” bacteria that had previously kept our teeth healthy.
The Industrial Revolution and the Decline of Dental Health
The Industrial Revolution further exacerbated the problem by introducing processed flour and sugar into our diets. These refined carbohydrates provided an even more favorable environment for the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth.
As a result of these dietary changes, the balance of bacteria in our mouths has shifted towards the harmful kinds. Our bodies are constantly fighting these bacteria off, no matter how diligently we brush and floss.
Restoring the Balance
To restore the balance of bacteria in our mouths and improve our dental health, we need to reduce our intake of carbohydrates and processed foods. A diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein can help to create an environment in the mouth that is less conducive to the growth of harmful bacteria.
Specific Dietary Recommendations
Some specific dietary recommendations for improving dental health include:
- Reducing sugar intake: Sugar is a major culprit in tooth decay. Limit your consumption of sugary foods and drinks, such as candy, soda, and juice.
- Eating more fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables are high in fiber and antioxidants, which can help to neutralize acids in the mouth and protect teeth from decay.
- Choosing whole grains over refined grains: Whole grains contain more fiber and nutrients than refined grains, which can help to reduce the risk of tooth decay.
- Drinking plenty of water: Water helps to wash away food particles and bacteria from the mouth. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day.
- Avoiding tobacco products: Smoking and chewing tobacco can damage the teeth and gums.
Conclusion
By making these dietary changes, we can help to restore the balance of bacteria in our mouths and improve our dental health. Remember, the key to healthy teeth is not just about brushing and flossing, but also about eating a diet that is low in carbohydrates and processed foods.