Oral Health Benefits That Come from Eating Parsley
Posted on 11/16/2020 by Dick Hikade, DDS
Parsley is good for more than just garnishing your pasta dish or sprucing up your bowl of soup. Did you know that consuming parsley has numerous benefits for your oral and overall health?
Parsley Freshens Breath and Kills Bacteria
For a long time, parsley has been used as a natural breath freshener due to its herbaceous aroma and flavor. But parsley does not just mask odors; it actually contains compounds that kill bad breath-causing bacteria. One of these compounds is chlorophyll, which is known for its deodorizing and antimicrobial capabilities.
Since parsley is naturally antibacterial, it is excellent for your oral health. Along with brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day, chewing parsley could help eliminate harmful bacteria in your mouth that can cause gum disease and tooth decay.
Vitamin K Helps Absorb Calcium
Like other leafy green vegetables, parsley contains high levels of vitamin K. Vitamin K is crucial for bone health, tooth remineralization, wound healing, and blood clotting. Together with vitamin D, vitamin K helps your body absorb calcium, which is necessary for strong, healthy teeth and bones.
Parsley Contains Disease-Fighting Properties
In addition to its antibacterial properties, vitamins, and minerals, parsley also contains a variety of antioxidants and volatile oils that are not only important for your oral health, but for your overall health as well. Some of these antioxidants, such as the flavonoids myricetin and apigenin, have been shown to inhibit tumor growth and even shrink existing cancerous tumors. Myricetin is also found in other antioxidant-rich superfoods like cranberries, and is recognized for its anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties. Some studies indicate that the chlorophyll found in parsley could have cancer-fighting potential as well, but more research needs to be performed to prove a definitive link. To learn more about parsley and other foods that are beneficial for your oral health, contact our office today.
Dental Blog | Sunnyside Dentistry | Clackamas, OR dentist Dick Hikade, DDS at Sunnyside Dentistry has created this informative blog to help educate the community about dental concerns. Sunnyside Dentistry, 14210 SE Sunnyside Rd, Suite 200, Clackamas, OR 97015 • (503) 451-5104 • sunnysidedentistry.com • 10/10/2024 • Page Keywords: dentist Clackamas OR •
Parsley is good for more than just garnishing your pasta dish or sprucing up your bowl of soup. Did you know that consuming parsley has numerous benefits for your oral and overall health?