Fact checked by Nick Blackmer Flossing as little as once a week may reduce the risk of stroke, a new preliminary study found.Flossing helps prevent the buildup of bacteria that can cause inflammation in the body and harm your heart.

Mind your hygiene! About 795,000 Americans will have a stroke this year — new research suggests that a common, healthy habit may reduce the risk of certain types of stroke. “A recent global health report revealed that oral diseases — such as untreated tooth decay and gum disease — affected 3.

Researchers also found that the dental hygiene habit is associated with a 44 per cent lower risk of blood clots travelling from the heart and about 12 per cent lower risk of irregular heartbeats. This link is independent of regular brushing, routine dental visits or other oral hygiene behaviours, scientists said.