D for Gums.Getting enough vitamin D vitamin D Any of a group of fat-soluble alcohols important in calcium metabolism in animals to form strong bones and teeth and prevent rickets and osteoporosis. It is formed by ultraviolet radiation (sunlight) of sterols (see steroid) present in the skin. may keep your gums healthy, according to according to prep. 1. As stated or indicated by; on the authority of: according to historians. 2. In keeping with: according to instructions. 3. a study of more than 11,000 people. Researchers measured how much the participants' gums were attached to their teeth. (Separated gums are a sign of periodontal disease Periodontal Disease Definition Periodontal diseases are a group of diseases that affect the tissues that support and anchor the teeth. Left untreated, periodontal disease results in the destruction of the gums, alveolar bone (the part of the jaws where , which can lead to tooth loss.) Among people aged 50 or older, those with lower levels of vitamin D in their blood lost 27 percent (men) and 23 percent (women) more gum attachment than those with higher levels. The researchers suggest that vitamin D works by curbing inflammation in the gums rather than by strengthening bone density, because gum attachment wasn't linked to the density of the participants' bones. What to do: Experts recommend at least 200 IU a day of vitamin D if you're 19 to 50, 400 IU a day if you're 51 to 70, and 600 IU a day if you're over 70. The best sources: a multivitamin mul·ti·vi·ta·min adj. Containing many vitamins. n. A preparation containing many vitamins. multivitamin , a calcium + vitamin D supplement, and sunshine (except in the winter if you live north of the line connecting Los Angeles Los Angeles (lôs ăn`jələs, lŏs, ăn`jəlēz'), city (1990 pop. 3,485,398), seat of Los Angeles co., S Calif.; inc. 1850. and Atlanta). Amer. J. Clin. Nutr. 80: 108, 2004. |
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