March is National Nutrition Month, which makes it the perfect time to pause to consider how you are fueling you body. You might decide to add more vegetables into your weekly menu, snack on fruit instead of baked goods or candy, and learn more about how various vitamins and minerals can support optimum health. All of those things are wonderful goals! But did you know that your nutritional choices can also have a big impact on your oral health? Let’s discuss some types of food you can integrate into your diet that will help you celebrate National Nutrition Month in Carrollton and give your smile a boost.
Calcium
Calcium is wonderful for your bones, but it can also help to keep your teeth strong and well-mineralized. Tooth-friendly sources of calcium tend to be those that are low in sugar. Hence, it is best to choose plain yogurt, cheese, and unflavored milk rather than sugary yogurt, ice cream, and chocolate milk as your main calcium sources. If you are sensitive to dairy, other wonderful sources of calcium include almonds, kale, spinach, and sardines.
Vitamin D
Calcium is essential, but you cannot get the full benefit from it unless you also get enough vitamin D. Vitamin D helps your bones and teeth to absorb calcium. Your body self-produces vitamin D when you spend time in the sun, but you can also get it from nutritional sources. Fatty fish and portobello mushrooms are great ways to boost your vitamin D intake. You can also get more of it by consuming drinks that have been fortified with it, such as milk and many types of breakfast cereal.
Phosphorous
Phosphorous is the second-most abundant mineral in the body, and it works alongside calcium to build and maintain strong teeth. You can find it in a broad range of food. For example, many types of seafood are rich in phosphorous. Eggs, beef, pork, and cheese also contain this marvelous mineral.
Vitamin C
Research has found that individuals with low vitamin C levels tend to have a higher risk of gum disease. That may be because vitamin C is an immune-boosting substance and an antioxidant that helps to fight off inflammation-causing free radicals. Citrus fruits, like oranges, are famous for their high vitamin C content, but such fruits are also quite acidic and may damage tooth enamel, so it is best to consume them in moderation. Some non-citrus sources of vitamin C include strawberries, bell peppers, potatoes, kiwis, and leafy greens.
Are you supporting your oral health in Carrollton through smart nutrition? If you see room for improvement, now is the time to make some adjustments to your diet so your smile can shine bright this March and well into the future.
About the Author
Dr. Moji Chandy is a general and preventive dentist in Carrollton, TX. She has been practicing since she earned her dental degree in 2006 from NYU. If you would like her advice on how you can eat to support your oral health, she would be happy to chat with you. To learn more about her or to schedule an appointment, contact our team at 972-492-6700.