Recent research from Cornell University has uncovered an alarming new insight into how the foods we eat can impact oral health. It turns out that consuming starch-rich foods—such as beans, pasta, potatoes, and rice—can lead to cavities, much like sugary foods do, but the risk is especially high for people with a particular genetic trait.
The Role of AMY1 Gene in Oral Health
The research focuses on the AMY1 gene, which codes for an enzyme called amylase, found in saliva and responsible for breaking down starches. It turns out that the number of copies of the AMY1 gene a person has can influence the way their body reacts to starch, potentially leading to an increased risk of cavities.
Professor Angela Poole, a molecular nutrition expert and author of the study, explains, “Most people have been warned that if you eat a bunch of sugar, make sure you brush your teeth. The takeaway finding here is that depending on your AMY1 copy number, you may want to be just as vigilant about brushing your teeth after eating digestible starches.”
How AMY1 Copy Number Affects Oral Health
The study found that people with higher AMY1 copy numbers are more likely to experience cavities and periodontal disease. They also have higher levels of Porphyromonas endodontalis, a bacterium that can cause root canal infections. In addition, their saliva contains more of the bacteria Streptococcus, which feeds off the sugars produced when starch is broken down.
If someone has a high number of AMY1 copies, their body breaks down starch more efficiently, making it easier for bacteria that feed on starch-derived sugars to thrive. This can lead to an increase in oral bacteria that contribute to cavities and gum disease.
The Microbial Adaptation in the Mouth
The research also reveals that the oral microbiome, which consists of various bacteria in the mouth, adapts based on the amount of AMY1 present. While people with a higher copy number of AMY1 had more Streptococcus bacteria, other bacteria, such as Atopobium and Veillonella, were found to be less abundant in their saliva.
Dr. Poole notes, “You can have species behave differently based on the different substrates. It’s pretty incredible how we adapt and these microbes turn around and adapt, too.”
Historical and Genetic Context
Interestingly, the research found that populations with a long history of agriculture, and thus greater access to starches, tend to have more copies of the AMY1 gene. This genetic trait likely provided an evolutionary advantage by enabling individuals to break down starches more efficiently during times when food was scarce.
The Takeaway: Starch and Cavities
For individuals with higher AMY1 copy numbers, this study provides an important dental warning: starch-rich foods, which many people consider healthy, could contribute to cavities and other oral health issues if proper care is not taken. Brushing and flossing after consuming starchy foods may become just as important as after eating sugary treats.
In conclusion, while starch is often seen as a healthy carbohydrate source, its impact on dental health should not be underestimated, especially for those with a higher number of AMY1 gene copies. As always, maintaining good oral hygiene through regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental care remains the best defense against cavities and other oral health problems.
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