OPEN WIDE....Part Four
THE MESSAGE - Good Food Makes Good Teeth
From childhood on, we're warned about the foods that can cause dreaded cavities, but isn't it nice to know about the foods that keep our teeth healthy and strong? These include milk, cheese and yogurt, for the calcium to maintain the bones that form the structure of the mouth. "Probiotics in yogurt can also help to keep a balance of good bacteria in the mouth," says Veisma. Omega 3 healthy fats in flaxseeds, walnuts, sardines and salmon have proven anti-inflammatory benefits and can help keep bacteria in check too. Crunchy fruit and veggies like apples and carrots are naturally cleansing, plus the action of chewing them increases saliva production, which helps to flush away bateria - and as a bonus, they're high in antioxidant Vitamin C. And last but not least: red wine. Italian researchers have found that certain antioxidants in grape skins can actually prevent bacteria from sticking to teeth. "This isn't an excuse to use red wine as mouthwash." Veismas says. "It's fine in moderation but keep in mind that it's also very staining.
THE LESSON:
A healthy, moderate diet is key to keeping the whole body healthy, mouth included. Don'r forget that drinking plenty of water and chewing sugarless gum can also help keep teeth clean and breath fresh.
From childhood on, we're warned about the foods that can cause dreaded cavities, but isn't it nice to know about the foods that keep our teeth healthy and strong? These include milk, cheese and yogurt, for the calcium to maintain the bones that form the structure of the mouth. "Probiotics in yogurt can also help to keep a balance of good bacteria in the mouth," says Veisma. Omega 3 healthy fats in flaxseeds, walnuts, sardines and salmon have proven anti-inflammatory benefits and can help keep bacteria in check too. Crunchy fruit and veggies like apples and carrots are naturally cleansing, plus the action of chewing them increases saliva production, which helps to flush away bateria - and as a bonus, they're high in antioxidant Vitamin C. And last but not least: red wine. Italian researchers have found that certain antioxidants in grape skins can actually prevent bacteria from sticking to teeth. "This isn't an excuse to use red wine as mouthwash." Veismas says. "It's fine in moderation but keep in mind that it's also very staining.
THE LESSON:
A healthy, moderate diet is key to keeping the whole body healthy, mouth included. Don'r forget that drinking plenty of water and chewing sugarless gum can also help keep teeth clean and breath fresh.
