Contrary to popular belief, eating chocolates could prevent tooth cavities. Researchers at Osaka University in Japan have found that the cocoa bean -- the main ingredient of chocolate -- kills the mouth bacteria. Tooth cavities start when the Streptococcus mutans bacteria produce a sticky molecule called glucan. This helps the bacteria anchor themselves to teeth and form plaque. These bacteria in plaque convert sugars to acids, which eat the tooth's surface and lead to cavities. The anti-bacterial agents in cocoa beans offset its high sugar levels ( Archives of Oral Biology , Vol 45, p639).
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
.png)
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.