Improve Your Sleep and Overall Health with Your Dentist’s Help!

Struggling with sleep issues? It might be time to consult your dentist!

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association sheds light on why this approach is effective. Dental professionals are uniquely positioned to detect early signs of sleep disorders, sometimes before these issues become apparent in a general medical examination. Indicators such as enlarged jaw muscles, scalloped tongue edges, and specific patterns of tooth wear can signal underlying sleep concerns. Dental sleep medicine experts offer valuable screenings and often collaborate with sleep specialists to ensure comprehensive care. By broadening our view of oral health beyond just cavities and gum disease, we can identify potentially serious conditions early. So, next time you're in the dental chair, remember: your dentist might play a key role in enhancing your overall health.

The Science of Muscle Health: New Insights

A groundbreaking study in Current Biology reveals that exercise does more than build strength—it enhances muscle cell function at a microscopic level. Researchers discovered that physical activity activates a cellular “cleaning crew,” led by a protein called BAG3, which helps remove damaged proteins from muscle cells. This process keeps muscles healthy and adaptable to physical demands. This research highlights why regular physical activity is crucial not just for fitness but for maintaining optimal muscle health. For practical tips on building and maintaining muscle at any age, check out my podcast episode, "How (And Why) To Build Muscle at Any Age, with Mike Matthews."

The Magnesium Crisis: Why It Matters

Magnesium plays a role in over 700 enzymatic reactions in the body, influencing everything from energy production to bone health. However, the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for magnesium hasn’t been updated since 1997, based on outdated body weights. Current averages are higher, suggesting the RDA may be too low for many people. Factors such as soil depletion, absorption rates, and increased needs due to stress and medications make it challenging to meet magnesium requirements through diet alone. We have suboptimal magnesium levels, which could silently impact our health. Optimising magnesium intake supports cardiovascular health, metabolic function, bone strength, cognitive performance, stress resilience, and sleep quality. Given its broad benefits, magnesium supplementation can be a valuable addition to your health regimen.