In the dead of winter, it’s fun to daydream of a tropical vacation. What do you picture? Lounging in a hammock underneath banana trees? Native dancers performing while you soak up the rays of the sun? Sipping a delicious pina colada out of a coconut shell? There’s great news for the dental health of people that enjoy coconut. Coconut is proving to be a superfood with many healthy qualities. Katy, TX dentist, Dr. Colin Lathrop notes that coconut oil might be the key to natural dental health care in the future.
Coconut Research
Coconut oil is high in saturated fat, which means that like any oil, you should consume the concentrated compound in moderation. However, known to have a higher resistance to heat damage, health experts believe coconut might be a better oil to cook with than olive oil (long considered the most “heart healthy” choice out there). Researchers at Athlone Institute of Technology in Ireland are less concerned with matters of the heart, and more focused on matters inside your mouth. It seems that coconut oil inhibits the bacteria that cause cavities. Research data from this study was presented at the Society for General Microbiology’s Autumn Conference at the University of Warwick last year.
Can Coconut Kill Bacteria?
Dr. Damien Brady led his team in Ireland to experiment with mixing coconut oil and enzymes. Streptococcus mutans (the bacteria that cause tooth decay) were obliterated as a result of the introduction. Modifying coconut oil with enzymes mimicked the chain reaction which would occur in the human body upon ingesting the oil. Coconut as a chemical additive in oral hygiene products is an enticing idea if these powers are properly harnessed. Many other additives to toothpaste have healing potential, but aren’t appealing flavors. Coconut toothpaste, however, could be as refreshing as that pina colada from your tropical vacation fantasy.
Visit your Katy, TX Dentist
Dr. Colin Lathrop is an experienced and widely respected dentist serving patients in the Katy TX area. Patients can contact Dr. Lathrop at 832-437-3849 to schedule an appointment or a consultation.
