What is the best technique and the best frequency for tongue scraping? How to clean your tongue.
This is the final video in a five-part series on tongue cleaning. The first four were:
• Effects of Tongue Scraping on Plaque, Gingivitis, and Cavities (
• Tongue Scraping vs. Tongue Brushing for Treating Halitosis (Bad Breath) (
• Does Tongue Scraping Cause Cancer? (
• How Tongue Scraping Can Affect Heart Health (
Let me re-emphasize some of the main points. If increasing your salt sensitivity was all tongue scraping did, then that alone would make the practice worthwhile, even if you already have fantastic breath and even if your blood pressure is pristine. Excess sodium does more damage than just increase our blood pressure. So, anything we can do to make food taste saltier so we add less salt, the better.
In terms of technique, do it daily and do it gently, just along the top surface, but make sure to include the back of the tongue. The two preferred brands in the study I mentioned were meridol and “Scrapy.” Unfortunately, I think they’re both only sold in Europe, but, as I said, you can just use a simple spoon. And, in terms of sanitizing without worrying about a vinegary aftertaste, remember the microwave-for-one-minute trick and save yourself from having to keep buying toothbrushes. Here is my video on the best water purifier I mentioned: Is It Best to Drink Tap, Filtered, or Bottled Water? (
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Thanks for watching. I hope you’ll join in the evidence-based nutrition revolution!
-Michael Greger, MD FACLM
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