Between Halloween and the holidays, many of us are gearing up to endure a season of tempting treats. It is okay to indulge occasionally, but there are some pitfalls to avoid. Here is a helpful guide to choices and a few healthy options to add to your plate.
Eat this - foods loaded with vitamins, protein and fiber:
- Leafy greens
- Fiber-filled fruits - apples and berries
- Cheese
- Yogurt
- Sugar-free gum
Not that - sour, starchy, sugary and sticky foods:
- Citrus fruits
- Taffy
- Caramel
- Raisins
- Hard candy
- Chips
- Crackers
Drink this:
- Fluoridated tap water
- Milk
Not that - sour and sugary drinks:
- Soda
- Coffee
- Tea
- Juice
Eating a diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and calcium will keep your teeth strong and healthy. Avoiding acidic, sugary, starchy, and sticky foods will help prevent cavities. Cavity-causing bacteria feed on sugar and carbohydrates that are in many desserts, candies, and crunchy snack foods. Foods that are sticky or catch in your teeth stay in your mouth longer, increasing the contact of the bacteria that causes cavities. Acidic foods and drinks can erode tooth enamel and cause staining.
If you do have a sugary snack, dessert, or beverage, try to have it with or right after your meal. It’s also a good idea to rinse your mouth with water afterward. Every time that you take a bite or a drink of a sugary snack; you give the cavity causing bacteria a chance to have a snack as well. Try not to snack on sugary, starchy food or sip on sugary drinks throughout the day. As always, keep up with your regular brushing and flossing routine.
This information in this post is for general educational purposes only and does not warrant or represent any information as related to health as specifically appropriate for you. It is not intended to be medical advice or replace the relationship that you have with your health care providers. You should always seek medical advice on any diagnosis or treatment from a qualified health care provider. The information is provided “as is” without any representations or warranties, express or implied.
