Dry mouth: nutritional advice for patients with xerostomia Dietary ‘tips’ to counteract the consequences of dry mouth Saliva is essential for maintaining a healthy mouth.
Although it is normal for us to notice dry mouth at certain times as a result of stress or nervousness, it can become a serious problem if it persists daily.
Dry mouth, known as xerostomia or dry mouth syndrome, is a disorder that can be treated, but also, in a complementary way, we can follow a series of dietary tips that will help us counteract it.
Healthy adults normally produce between 1.5 and 2 liters of saliva per day, which allows us to speak, swallow, taste food, digest food, among other important functions.
Xerostomia, by reducing saliva secretion, irritates the soft tissues of the mouth and increases the risk of infections, cavities and bad breath.
In addition, it causes an increase in bacterial plaque and periodontal disease.
Dietary advice against xerostomia Drink 2-3 liters of water a day.
Follow a balanced diet, rich in fruits and vegetables, but controlling the consumption of citrus fruits.
Avoid spicy and highly seasoned foods, as well as oily and thick foods that can give a pasty feeling in the mouth, such as peanut butter.
Instead, eat foods with a soft consistency: purees, creams, broths, yogurt… Avoid high doses of caffeine (coffee, cola drinks, isotonic drinks, etc.) Chew gum or candy, both sugar-free, daily to increase salivary secretion.
What is the treatment for dry mouth?
Most cases of dry mouth are caused by hormonal changes and certain medications, such as antihistamines (for allergies and asthma), antihypertensives (for blood pressure), decongestants, diuretics or antidepressants.
However, there are also cases associated with other diseases, such as diabetes and some immune-related diseases.
Therefore, at Clínica Cervera the treatment of xerostomia depends on each case and we always offer personalized advice. + info: http://www.clinicacervera.es/ca/noticia/xerostomia-que-fer-davant-la-sindrome-de-la-boca-seca/294