A 5-year-long study has found that people with chronic bacterial infections have an increased risk of atherosclerosis, the major cause of heart disease. The study found that people with bacterial infections such as gum disease, lung, and urinary infections are three times more likely to develop new plaques in the carotid arteries. People with viral infections were not an increased risk of arterial disease. A build-up of fat in the carotid arteries increases the risk of stroke, and also suggests that the coronary arteries are blocked as well. The researchers recommend that people take measures to prevent chronic bacterial infections, these include, improving oral hygiene, eating healthily, and stopping smoking.
 
 There are several Standard Process® supplements are available to support gum health.