Shift oral health with oil pulling
By Mercedes Kay Gold, CNP, CPT
Dentist appointments are expensive, and it’s tough to decide whether to go old-school or see a holistic dentist. Which is the best way to support optimal oral health? Is fluoride a friend or foe? Fast fact: Over 400 million people receive fluoride in their water globally. The government still believes fluoridization is the most cost-effective way to reduce tooth decay. Do you brush with or without fluoride? I’m not out to change your mind, that’s up to you. This holistic nutritionist would love to support your daily protocol with an all-star addition, aimed at removing bacteria and toxins. Better breath is another bonus. Have you heard of oil pulling?
Oil pulling is ancient, rooted in Ayurvedic medicine, but still practiced today in India. The art of oil pulling is inexpensive, simple and effective, not trendy, and research shows it has potential for improving dental hygiene.
“The effects of oil pulling on oral health, as an adjunct to conventional oral hygiene measures have been exemplary. Scientific evidence suggests that oil pulling therapy may reduce the total oral bacterial count and reduce plaque and gingival scores,” according to research in the 2017 article, Oil pulling and importance of traditional medicine in oral health maintenance, which appeared in the International Journal of Health Sciences. Ancient Ayurvedic texts show oil pulling has implications for improving over 30 different systemic diseases.
The best time to do oil pulling is first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. To be honest, the shower is the best spot. All you need is one tablespoon of organic extra-virgin coconut oil. Begin by swishing the chunk of coconut oil inside your mouth for between 15 to 20 minutes for best results. You might start off with only three minutes and work your way up. It will soften quickly. Lots of swooshing, spit and rinse! Do not swallow. It may have bacteria and toxins in it. Rinse out your mouth with warm water. Many people will brush and floss after, but piles of people are pulling exclusively. Most health experts recommend five times a week. Start off slowly. After seeing and feeling the benefits, show off the stunning smile. For a brighter, whiter smile, and more chemical-free love, mix three to four tablespoons of activated charcoal into one cup of melted coconut oil. It will harden again in the jar after thorough mixing. Pearly perfection can be achieved with the help of Mother Nature.
(This information is not intended to replace medical advice and treatment from a health care practitioner).
Mercedes Kay Gold is a Certified Personal Trainer and Certified Holistic Nutritionist who loves helping others live their best life when not spending time with her children and grandchildren, Theodore and Aila. She can be reached at mercedeskaygoldfitness@gmail.com
