Fasting-Mimicking Diet Reduces Gum Inflammation

A new study by King s College London, led by Giuseppe Marino and Luigi Nibali, found that a short-term fasting-mimicking diet can reduce markers of inflammation associated with gum disease. The research, involving 28 patients from hospitals in Spain, showed that participants following a calorie-restricted diet had lower levels of C-reactive protein and other inflammation-linked molecules in their blood and gum tissue. This suggests that lifestyle modifications, alongside traditional plaque control, could be crucial in managing periodontitis. The study, published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology and funded by the United Kingdom — Medical Research Council, highlights the intertwined nature of oral and wider body health, with potential future implications for gum disease treatment, though further research is needed, especially for patients with conditions like diabetes.