Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, with nearly 1 million deaths attributed to it in 2022 alone. However, new research suggests that flossing may be a simple and inexpensive habit that can help mitigate this risk.
A recent study published in the American Stroke Association’s International Stroke Conference found that regular flossing was associated with a significantly lower risk of certain forms of stroke and atrial fibrillation (AFib). The researchers analyzed data from over 6,000 participants and found that those who flossed regularly experienced a 22% lower risk of ischemic stroke and a 44% lower risk of cardioembolic stroke.
The study’s lead author, Souvik Sen, MD, MPH, noted that “flossing is already known to reduce the rate of heart attack” and suggested that regular flossing may also help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Another researcher, Shuichi Tonomura, MD, found an apparent association between the presence of certain bacteria in the gut and stroke, highlighting the complex relationship between oral health and cardiovascular disease.
The study’s findings are significant because they suggest that good oral health habits, such as flossing, may be a potential lifestyle factor for reducing cardiovascular disease risk. By incorporating regular flossing into your daily routine, you may be able to lower your risk of certain forms of stroke and AFib.
To reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease, experts recommend following the American Heart Association’s guidelines on heart-healthy habits, including eating better, being more active, quitting tobacco, getting healthy sleep, managing weight, controlling cholesterol, managing blood sugar, and managing blood pressure.
Source: https://www.healthline.com/health-news/regular-flossing-may-lower-stroke-afib-risk