A common dietary gap may be quietly affecting oral health as people age. A new study suggests that older adults with lower lycopene intake were significantly more likely to have severe gum disease, a condition linked to tooth loss and broader health problems.
Researchers analyzed national health and nutrition data from more than 1,200 adults ages 65 to 79. Nearly half showed signs of periodontitis, and most consumed less lycopene than recommended. After accounting for factors such as age, smoking and education, those with adequate intake had markedly lower odds of severe disease.
The findings point to diet as a potentially important factor in gum health, though the study cannot prove cause and effect. Researchers say the results highlight the need for further studies to determine whether dietary patterns influence disease progression and whether targeted prevention strategies could reduce the burden of severe gum disease in older adults.
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