Researchers at Harvard University have found that frequent use of antiseptic (germ-killing) mouthwash can increase the risk of developing diabetes by as much as 55%. This is because it indiscriminately kills both bad and good bacteria in the mouth. Some of the good bacteria protect the body against obesity and diabetes.
The antiseptic ingredients in mouthwash are not selective. They do not target specific oral bacteria. Instead, these ingredients act on a wide range of bacteria. The Harvard researchers found that routine use of commercial mouthwash probably does more harm than good.
Comments from Dr. Thomas: Previous studies have linked the routine use of mouthwash to high blood pressure. A safer alternative the commercial mouthwash is a homemade mixture of one cup of water with a teaspoon of baking soda and a few drops of peppermint essential oil (yields several rinses).
