Bonitas Member Magazine B-Living Issue 2_2019 | Page 8

Have a question for the doctor? Email us at [email protected] and your question could feature in the next issue of B-Living. Dear Doctor, Good day, Dr, We constantly hear that salt is bad for us and should be limited. After investigating, I found out that salt is bad for us because it raises blood pressure. If I have low blood pressure, is salt still bad for me? I battle with muscle cramps and find salt helps with these too. My name is Phumlani and we have been told by my dentist that our 8-year-old son must get fissure sealants. I am not too sure I understand the whole concept behind this. Can you please help us understand what these are? Your Patient Thank you, Phumlani Dear Patient, Good day, Phumlani, Taking salt for your low blood pressure is not bad, it is actually recommended. However, how you take it, remains a question. Eating raw salt to increase your blood pressure can be risky, as a high intake of salt can damage your blood vessels and kidneys. One of the home remedies for low blood pressure is to eat something rich in sodium followed by large amounts of water, e.g., salt and vinegar flavoured chips. Fissures are natural grooves on the tooth surface. These grooves are often very narrow and deep and no amount of brushing can clean them properly. About 90% of decay starts in the fissures! The plaque (germs) lies happily in these deep recesses, carrying on with its decay process. Fissures soon start to appear dark and eventually a small cavity will form. For example: The cramps are usually caused by a low potassium and high sodium intake. Potassium is an important mineral; it helps the body to get rid of excess sodium (salt) in your body. The two minerals need to be well balanced in your diet by focusing on eating fewer processed foods and fresher, whole foods. Foods that are particularly high in potassium include: • Vegetables, especially leafy greens, tomatoes, potatoes and sweet potatoes • Fruit, including melons, avocados, oranges, apricots and bananas are highly recommended You will however need to consult with a dietician for a safe and healthy eating plan. Fissure sealants are a quick, painless and effective way to close up these natural recesses. This prevents bacteria from gaining entry and starting tooth decay. The sealant material itself is a flowable composite (white) resin. When placed on the surface of the tooth it will flow into the fissures. A light is used to harden the material. Why are children more at risk to develop tooth decay? • Their diets are usually high in sugar • Their hygiene is not yet what it should be • Their tooth enamel is not as fully mineralised as it can become after years of exposure to the environment The benefit is available on all our options except on BonEssential, BonEssential Select and Hospital Standard, for beneficiaries younger than 16 years of age and subject to managed care protocols and Scheme Rules. Disclaimer: The advice included above is for information purposes only. It is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor or medical practitioner. We strongly urge you to consult with your family practitioner before embarking on a health treatment or programme. All information has been checked by a Bonitas Clinical Adviser. Page 7