In view of the increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity in Europe, the role of certain carbohydrates, like sugar, is often controversially discussed. Here are some facts about the role of carbohydrates, sugars and sugar in our diet.

The incidence of tooth decay (dental caries) in children and adolescents in most European countries has fallen steadily over the past three decades, despite the fact that the average intake of sugars has remained fairly constant. So which factors are responsible for this positive trend? It appears that better oral hygiene (more tooth brushing and the use of dental floss) and fluoride can take the credit.

British scientists have developed a successful vaccine against tooth decay from genetically modified tobacco plants, according to a recent report in the journal Nature Medicine. Results from a four-month patient trial were very encouraging, leading to speculation that the treatment should be available to the public within a few years.