Flossing: A Simple Habit That Could Save Your Life 

United States: Recent research at the American Stroke Association meeting in Los Angeles demonstrates that consistent flossing practices decrease the threat of heart troubles and stroke occurrences. The analysis discovered that individuals who floss once per week develop a 50% reduction in their chance of sustaining a stroke from blood clot, as reported by HealthDay

Flossing’s Surprising Health Benefits 

Clinical data from the study highlights two key benefits of flossing: 

  • 22% lower risk of clot-based strokes 
  • 44% reduced risk of heart-related stroke clots 

The study results showed that individuals who flossed their teeth once per week faced a 12% reduced risk of developing atrial fibrillation (A-fib). This heart rhythm disorder raises stroke possibility. 

How Oral Health Affects Your Heart and Brain 

Dr. Souvik Sen from the University of South Carolina School of Medicine neurology program as lead researcher of the study explained that oral health plays a vital role in inflammation alongside artery stiffening which both increase stroke risk. 

“Flossing may reduce stroke risk by lowering oral infections and inflammation and encouraging other healthy habits,” Dr. Sen stated. 

Long-Term Study Provides Key Insights 

The study analyzed data from a 25-year research project on artery health, tracking more than 6,200 participants. Over this period, researchers documented 434 stroke cases and 1,300 cases of atrial fibrillation. 

Regardless of other dental care routines, participants who flossed regularly had a lower risk of stroke, gum disease, and cavities. 

Dr. Sen acknowledged that cost is often a barrier to proper dental care but emphasized that flossing is an affordable, accessible, and easy habit that can provide significant health benefits. 

Experts Call for Further Research 

Scientists were particularly surprised by the connection between flossing and reduced A-fib risk. Heart rhythm abnormalities can lead to clot formation, increasing stroke danger, but the exact mechanism behind flossing’s impact remains unclear. 

Daniel Lackland, professor of epidemiology at the Medical University of South Carolina, believes these findings could influence future health recommendations, as reported by HealthDay. 

“With further research, dental health practices could possibly be incorporated into the ‘Life’s Essential 8’ risk factors for cardiovascular health, alongside diet, exercise, blood pressure, and sleep,” Lackland stated.