03.24.09
A New Danger to Kidneys - In the last decade, cases of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the U.S. have increased by 30%. An estimated 26 million Americans are affected, according to the National Kidney Foundation.
The kidneys-two bean-shaped structures found just below the ribs in your back-filter blood and excrete harmful chemicals. Kidney damage reduces the body’s ability to get rid of waste and affects blood pressure, bone strength , and blood production. Even low levels of kidney disease contribute to heart failure, arterial disease, and strokes.
The leading risk factors for CKD are diabetes and high blood pressure, followed by weight gain and smoking. Now a study suggests a link between soda consumption and kidney disease. Researchers at Loyola University of Chicago found that women of normal weight who drink two or more cans of soda a day are nearly twice as likely to show early signs of CKD. The same effect was not found in men or in people who drink diet soda.
The authors looked at data from more than 9000 adults. They suggest that the culprit may be the high fructose corn syrup in many sodas. Others believe the phosphorus found in some sodas could be the problem.
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Bad Breath (Halitosis)
Bad breath can be a cause for embarrassment. Certain foods, such as garlic and onions, contribute to breath odor. Once the food is absorbed into the bloodstream, it is transferred to the lungs, where it is expelled. Brushing, flossing, and mouthwash only mask the odor temporarily. Dieters may develop unpleasant breath from infrequent eating.
If you don't brush and floss daily, food that collects on the tongue and between teeth can rot, leaving an unpleasant odor. Bad breath can also be caused by dry mouth; saliva is necessary to help neutralize and cleanse the mouth. Tobacco products can also cause bad breath. Bad breath can also be the sign of a medical disorder, such as an infection in the lungs or sinuses, diabetes, gastrointestinal disturbance, liver, or kidney ailment.
Maintaining good oral health is essential to reducing bad breath. Schedule regular dental visits for a professional cleaning and checkup. If you think you have constant bad breath, keep a log of the foods you eat and make a list of medications you take. Let us know if you've had any surgery or illness since your last appointment. If you must constantly use a breath freshener or need extra help in controlling plaque, we may prescribe the use of an antimicrobial mouth rinse.
