Are You Tongue Scraping Yet? 👅

Why It Matters

A modest change like tongue scraping can increase nitric oxide production, lowering cardiovascular risk, whereas routine mouthwash use may inadvertently raise blood pressure, making oral hygiene choices a significant public‑health factor.

Key Takeaways

• Tongue scraping stimulates bacteria that produce nitric oxide
• Nitric oxide acts as vasodilator, reducing heart attack risk
• Regular mouthwash kills beneficial bacteria, raising blood pressure
• Study shows mouthwash use increased young men's blood pressure 21%
• Incorporating tongue scraping may slow aging and improve sexual health

Summary

The video highlights tongue scraping as a simple oral‑care practice that activates specific bacteria on the tongue, prompting them to generate nitric oxide – a molecule linked to cardiovascular health, tissue oxygenation, and even sexual performance. It contrasts this benefit with the widespread use of antiseptic mouthwash, which eradicates the very microbes needed for nitric oxide production.

Nitric oxide functions as a potent vasodilator, helping to prevent heart attacks and potentially decelerating the aging process by improving oxygen delivery to deep tissues. The presenter cites a British Dental Journal report and a study of young, healthy men that found a 21% rise in blood pressure after just one week of daily mouthwash use, underscoring the negative impact of killing oral bacteria.

Key quotes include, “When you tongue scrape, you literally stimulate a bacteria that helps you produce something called nitric oxide,” and the ironic observation that mouthwash, marketed for fresh breath, “kills 99.9% of bacteria…including the good ones.” These examples illustrate how a common habit may unintentionally elevate cardiovascular risk.

The implication is clear: incorporating tongue scraping into daily routines could boost nitric oxide levels, supporting heart health, slowing age‑related decline, and enhancing sexual function, while reducing reliance on harsh mouthwashes that may raise blood pressure. Health‑conscious consumers and clinicians should reassess oral‑hygiene recommendations accordingly.

Original Description

Dr. Daniel Pompa is sharing some mind-blowing facts about the benefits of tongue scraping PLUS how conventional mouthwashes can erode your health.