Efek Mengunyah Buah dan Berkumur Jus Apel Fuji (Malus domestica) Terhadap Laju Alir Serta Derajat Keasaman Saliva Pada Pra-Lansia dan Dewasa Muda

Abstract

Fiber is a food component that is not easily absorbed but has significant health benefits, particularly in maintaining oral and dental health. One example of fiber rich food is Fuji apples. Chewing plays a crucial role in the digestive process. Age influences the production of saliva secretion, with young adults producing relatively more saliva than older individuals. Objective: to analyze the effects of chewing Fuji apples (Malus domestica) and rinsing with Fuji apple juice on the flow rate and pH level of saliva in pre-elderly and young adults. Method: a pre-experimental study with a two-group pretest-posttest design involved 36 participants divided into two age groups. Each group measured salivary flow rate and pH before and after 5 minutes of chewing Fuji apple and gargling its juice. Results: there was a notable difference in saliva flow rate and pH levels after chewing Fuji apples compared to before the treatment (P>0.05). Rinsing with Fuji apple juice also demonstrated an effect on the same parameters, albeit with varying intensities compared to chewing activity. Further analysis revealed significant differences in saliva responses between pre-elderly and young adults for both treatments. Conclusion: chewing Fuji apples and rinsing with Fuji apple juice can enhance saliva flow rate and stabilize saliva pH, contributing to oral health. This study provides additional insights into the benefits of consuming fiber-rich foods and the practical application of natural ingredients, such as Fuji apples, to support oral and dental health.