For years, many CAM (complementary and alternative medicine) organisations and cancer prevention specialists have campaigned against the use of mouthwash containing fluoride and alcohol. Evidence proves these are carcinogenic!
A new study by an Australian scientist now concludes that all mouthwash containing alcohol contributes to the risk of oral cancer and should be removed from the shelves. Some brands of mouthwash contain up to 26% alcohol. If you use this awful stuff you possibly feel it almost burning the roof of your mouth?
Professor Michael McCullough identified two ways in which alcohol-based mouthwashes can contribute to oral cancer:
Firstly, it allows knows cancer causing substances such as nicotine to penetrate the lining of the mouth much more easily. This seriously increases the risk to smokers.
Secondly, it can mean a toxic breakdown product of alcohol called acetaldehyde – another carcinogen – can accumulate in the oral cavity when swished around the mouth.
The British Dental Association have dismissed the claim as have manufacturers of some of these mouthwashes. But isn’t it better to be safe than sorry? There are lots of safe alternatives available in health food shops or online.
Editor’s note: my favourite mouthwash is Jaon Healthy Mouth which is available on Amazon
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[…] Whilst there is probably no disagreement amongst health professionals about the above tips, the issue of alcohol and fluoride in the oral hygiene products you use are somewhat more contentious. For example, some mouthwashes contain alcohol. […]