Оксана Иванова – Did You Know That ? Encyclopedia of Curious and Interesting Facts (страница 8)

●  Fights infection: Saliva contains antibodies and white blood cells that help to fight off bacteria and viruses that enter our mouths.

●  Enhances taste : Saliva helps us to taste food by dissolving chemicals and carrying them to our taste buds.

●  Lubricates the mouth: Saliva keeps our mouthsmoist , which reduces friction and makes it easier to speak, chew, and swallow.

The Importance of Saliva Production

Saliva production is essential for maintaining good oral health and overall well-being. When we don't produce enough saliva, we can experience a range of problems, including:

●  Tooth decay

●  Gum disease

●  Oral thrush

●  Difficulty chewing, speaking, and swallowing

●  Bad breath

Factors Affecting Saliva Production

Several factors can affect saliva production, including:

●  Age: Saliva production naturally decreases with age.

●  Medications: Some medications, such as antidepressants and decongestants, can have a drying effect on the mouth.

●Medical conditions: Certain diseases, such as diabetes and autoimmune disorders, can also affect saliva production.

● Lifestyle: Smoking, alcohoconsumption, and caffein intake can all reduce saliva flow.

Maintaining Optimal Saliva Production

There are a few things you can do to help maintain optimal saliva production:

● Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your mouth moist.

● Chew sugar-free gum: Chewing sugar-free gum can help to stimulate saliva production.

●  Use a saliva substitute: If you have dry mouth, you can use a saliva substitute or rinse to help keep your mouth moist.

●  See your dentist or doctor: If you have persistent dry mouth, see your dentist or doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Conclusion

Saliva is an essential fluid that plays a vital role in our health. By understanding its functions and how to maintain optimal saliva production, we can help to keep our mouths healthy and our bodies functioning properly.

WORDLIST:

spit – плевать

saliva – слюна

substance – вещество

swallow – глотать

vital fluid – жизненно важная жидкость

crucial role – решающая роль

oral health – здоровье полости рта

digestive system – пищеварительная система

immune response – иммунный ответ

gums – дёсны

cavities – полости

acids – кислоты

aids digestion – помогает пищеварению

starches – крахмалы

lubricates – смазывает

white blood cells – белые кровяные тельца

enhances taste – усиливает вкус

taste buds – вкусовые рецепторы

moist – влажный

reduces friction – уменьшает трение

chew – жевать

for maintaining – для поддержания

overall well-being – общее благополучие

a range of – ряд

tooth decay – кариес зубов

oral thrush – молочница полости рта

bad breath – неприятный запах изо рта

decreases – уменьшается

decongestants – противоотечные средства

consumption – потребление

intake – потребление

persistent – постоянный

QUESTIONS:

How much saliva does the average person produce over their lifetime?

What are the main functions of saliva?

What are the consequences of inadequate saliva production?

What factors can affect saliva production?

How can we maintain optimal saliva production?

Fact 10. Did you know that the largest land mammal is the African elephant?

These amazing animals can weigh up to 6,000 kilograms and stand over 4 meters tall at the shoulder. African elephants are known for their intelligence, social behavior, and their importance to the African ecosystem.