Research shows that maintaining proper diet and exercise can increase your overall well-being and life expectancy. Dentists encourage their patients to eat a healthy diet, not only to prevent cavities and gum disease, but also to promote good overall health. Studies show good oral health contributes to good overall health.
While the road to better health can seem like an uphill battle, the outcome is the prize. Taking small steps towards a healthy lifestyle will allow you a better opportunity for success. Making small changes in your diet will prove more effective than denying yourself of favorite foods completely then binging on sweet and fatty treats. Apply these three diet changes to set you on the path to healthy living:
Decrease alcohol consumption: Alcohol should be consumed in moderation, both for your overall and oral health. Alcohol contains empty calories that add up quickly. It alsocontains sugar and acid, which, combined with natural bacteria in the mouth, leads to a higher risk of tooth decay. Alcohol should be limited to two glasses a day for men and one glass a day for women.
Increase vegetable intake: Vegetables contain disease-fighting fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. People with high cholesterol, high blood sugar, high blood pressure, and certain types of cancers benefit from a high-vegetable diet. Eat beans, such as garbanzo beans, pinto beans, black beans, and soybeans, for added protein.
Choose healthy snacks: Mid-afternoon snacks from the vending machine destroy your hard work. Instead of raiding the calorie, sugar, carbohydrate laden treats, pack some healthy treats to combat your hunger. Whenever you start to feel hunger pangs, grab one of these healthy treats: fresh fruits and vegetables, seeds and nuts, yogurt, or low-fat cheese.
By starting off making a few basic changes in your diet, you will begin to make healthier choices every day. I’m Dr. James Stewart, a Livonia dentist. I believe it is important to establish a healthy diet and a healthy oral hygiene program to maintain teeth for a lifetime. Make sure to brush twice daily, floss once daily, rinse after meals, and keep semi-annual dental visits. Call my office at (734)425-4400 to schedule an appointment for a thorough cleaning and checkup.