Gillian McKeith's Food Bible (299 page)

Take L-glutamine powder. L-glutamine is a major source of fuel for the digestive tract and can help the healing of the
mucous membranes that line it.

Take large doses of vitamin C. This has been shown to eradicate H. pylori in some patients.

Supplement with acidophilus. This can help to improve the balance of bacteria in the gut and digestion generally.

EXTRA TIPS

Sleep with the upper body slightly raised to prevent acid from rising up into the esophagus. This is useful if heartburn at night is a problem.

Antacids are not helpful in the long term. These work by switching off the body’s production of stomach acid. Stomach acid is a necessary part of digestion and without sufficient quantities of it food can sit in the digestive tract fermenting and putrefying. This can lead to all kinds of digestive and absorption problems. A stomach that is not sufficiently acidic will allow bacteria and pathogens to get into the digestive tract. Antacids do nothing to heal the digestive tract or to eradicate the causes of the problem, they only provide symptomatic relief.

If you smoke, give up. Smokers are more likely to have peptic ulcers. Smoking depletes the body of healing nutrients and suppresses the immune system.

Chew food thoroughly to reduce the amount of work the stomach and intestines need to do and improve nutrient absorption. Chewing also mixes food with saliva, which is alkalizing. Relaxing when eating helps to improve digestive function. Food cannot be digested if you are eating while feeling stressed.

PERIODONTAL DISEASE

Periodontal disease is a fairly wide term referring to various disorders of the teeth and gums. Problems often start with inflammation around the teeth and gums, known as gingivitis. This is caused by the buildup of food and bacteria. This forms plaque and the plaque leads to infection and inflammation of the gums. The inflammation causes the buildup of more plaque, as it is harder to clean between the teeth and the swollen gums.

As the condition progresses, the infection causes the bone supporting the teeth to break down. Abscesses, bad breath, and bleeding gums may all be part of the picture. Ultimately, there may be loss of teeth.

CAUSES

Diets high in sugar and refined carbohydrates, frequent snacking on sugary foods and drinks, improper tooth brushing, teeth grinding, dry mouth, smoking, alcohol use, and nutrient deficiencies can all predispose someone to periodontal disease. Osteoporosis, diabetes, and heart disease may be underlying conditions, so these need to be checked out.

Action plan

Follow these tips to help strengthen your teeth and gums.

EAT/DRINK

Raw carrot and celery sticks. Chewing on these can help to strengthen the teeth and jaw.

Vitamin C-rich fruits and vegetables. Vitamin C is needed for healthy gums and has anti-inflammatory effects. Good
sources include berries, green vegetables, currants, melons, peas, peppers, watercress, and kiwi. Avoid very acidic fruits such as citrus fruits and juices, as these can cause further damage to the teeth.

Almonds, figs, sesame seeds, green vegetables, quinoa, amaranth, chickpeas, oats, and kidney beans, which contain calcium and magnesium. These minerals are needed for healthy bones and teeth.