Okemos, Lansing and East Lansing Michigan
There are many food options available at the grocery store and fast food restaurants but a plethora of choices doesn’t make them all healthy. If you’ve ever heard the old saying, you are what you eat, that credo rings true in several ways from your overall health to your teeth. While we won’t tell you to avoid treats or diet busters entirely, certain foods should be limited if you want to keep your teeth and gums in good shape. Today on the blog, learn about three foods that you shouldn’t eat (or at least limit) if you want healthy teeth.
Packaged/convenience foods
A rule of thumb is that most packaged foods, also dubbed convenience foods, should be avoided or limited. The reason for this recommendation is that these foods are usually highly processed and loaded with carbohydrates, sugars, and calories. They are also not nutritionally dense. This combination often results in short-term satisfaction, making you hungry sooner.
Additionally, packaged or processed foods don’t do you any favors in terms of your oral health. The processed carbohydrates breakdown into a form of sugar that fuels oral bacteria responsible for causing cavities and gum disease. It’s best to opt for fresh fruit and veggies paired with cheese, Greek yogurt (sugar-free), or nuts for a well-balanced snack. Ideally, steer clear of or limit foods like crackers, chips, cookies, and other processed snacks. The longer the ingredients list, the more processed the product.
Starchy snacks
These snacks include crackers, chips, pretzels, granola bars, cereal, bread, cookies, packaged baked goods and other foods high in starches (excluding whole fruits and vegetables). Like processed foods, starchy snacks can spike blood glucose levels, which won’t satiate hunger for long, leaving you hungry sooner than you should be and more likely to overconsume calories throughout the day.
Starchy snacks also adhere to your teeth by sticking in the tiny crevices and increasing the risk of oral diseases like cavities or gum disease. If you must consume starchy snacks, pair them with a wholesome protein to help keep you fuller for longer and brush your teeth soon afterward to remove residual sugars that may fuel oral bacteria.
Carbonated water
Also referred to as sparkling water, these beverages are often found in cans or bottles and offer a variety of flavors, usually without any added sugar. The zero sugar beverages may be deceiving as one might expect that carbonated soda waters are healthy to drink. While they aren’t referred to as “empty calories” like regular sweetened sodas, they are highly acidic, which could erode your dental enamel. Dental enamel is quite strong and durable, but as it wears thin, you’re more likely to develop tooth decay. We recommend avoiding or limiting your consumption of carbonated water to help keep your teeth in tiptop shape.
Family Dentist in Okemos, Lansing, and East Lansing, Michigan
Dr. Christine Tenaglia of Tenaglia Smiles offers dental care for the entire family. Twice yearly cleanings and check-ups, as well as maintaining a healthy and balanced diet, helps keep your teeth and gums healthy. To learn more or schedule an appointment, please call Tenaglia Smiles at (517) 347-6733.