Cranberries and Plaque
Israeli researchers have found that a substance exists in the tart berry
that helps bacteria from adhering to one another to form plaque, the
thin film buildup that forms soon after we eat and eventually leads to
cavities and gum disease. Scientists, led by dentist Dr. Ervin I. Weiss
at Tel Aviv University, conducted lab tests to see if cranberries had
indeed a non-stick effect on the bacteria which are most commonly found
in the oral cavity. In the December 1998 issue of JADA, Weiss reported
that the bacteria did not join to form plaque.
The researchers, however, warn that cranberry juices do not work in
the same fashion due to the added sugar, which can increase the incidence
of cavities. One day cranberry toothpaste may be developed to help fight
dental decay and gum problems.
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