Prevent periodontal disease and keep your mouth and teeth healthy with the right diet.
You’ve probably heard the saying that the mouth is a window into the whole body. Diseases that affect the entire body may first be noticed in your mouth. These 7 healthy foods will protect your grin and have you showing off your beautiful, bright smile every chance you get!
If you add these foods to your diet, you’ll start to see some healthy teeth. (Still brushing, of course.)
1. Strawberries
The malic acid in strawberries actually whitens the enamel of your teeth as you eat them. Even better: The polyphenols in strawberries could protect against oral cancer!
2. Green tea
A 2012 study found that the benefits of green tea extend well beyond weight loss, lower cholesterol, and anti-aging. Green tea can improve your tooth and gum health, too. The study found a positive correlation between daily green tea intake and periodontal health. Replace one of your daily cups of coffee with some green tea instead.
3. Spinach
Dark, leafy vegetables like spinach are chock-full of health benefits. Foods with vitamin E and vitamin C can help your body repair damaged tissue and prevent gingivitis. Spinach has both vitamins E and C.
4. Cheese
This dairy product can help prevent cavities. Researchers looked at the effect of milk, cheese, and sugar-free yogurt on the participants’ dental plaque pH. The higher the pH level is above 5.5, the lower the risk of developing cavities. Participants who ate cheese had a rapid increase in pH level, “suggesting that cheese has anti-cavity properties.”
5. Almonds
Almonds contain plenty of calcium and protein to help strengthen your teeth. Plus the healthy fats in almonds help keep your hunger at bay. But make sure to choose slivered almonds rather than whole ones. Whole almonds are much harder and can potentially fracture your teeth, so be careful!
6. Salmon
The phosphorus found in salmon is essential for the development and maintenance of bones and teeth. In addition, salmon’s omega-3 fatty acids are an excellent source of vitamin D, which strengthens your teeth and jaw bones. Start incorporating the fish into your weekly diet.
7. Sweet potatoes
The vitamin A in sweet potatoes can give your smile a boost. The Vitamin A is vital for salivary function, which buffers the pH of your mouth, helping to prevent tooth decay.
The healthier the diet, the healthier the teeth.
