Just like with all aspects of our world, science changes daily thanks to new research and studies. What’s the hot topic of this week, you may ask? The answer: How closely what we eat impacts our health.
The most recent adaptation of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s food pyramid recommends 2 ½ cups of vegetables and 2 cups of fruit each day. If you currently consume this amount of fruits and veggies each day, good for you! Unfortunately most people don’t. If you’re one of these people, would you be more likely to eat healthy if you knew how these foods contributed to your overall well being?
Consume the following vitamins and minerals for oral and overall health:
Vitamin A prevents tooth decay and helps the formation of healthy soft tissues and teeth. Unpeeled sweet potatoes, spinach, broccoli, and carrots are excellent sources of vitamin A. Vitamin B is actually a complex of eights vitamins that benefit oral health and comfort by preventing inflammation. B vitamins can be found in leafy green vegetables, sweet corn, peas, and berries. Vitamin C is an antioxidant, meaning it prevents free radicals from attacking cells and causing decay. This vitamin is also vital in regeneration of your skin, bones, and connection tissue, which helps prevent gum disease. Citrus fruits, tomatoes, broccoli, and red and green peppers are all sources of vitamin C. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, a mineral that is vital for the structure and function of the teeth and bones. Vegetable sources of vitamin D include alfalfa and mushrooms. Calcium is in bok choy, collards, broccoli, kale, and turnip greens, and helps promote strong teeth and bones.
In addition to having regular dental exams and cleanings, having a balanced and nutritious diet can help to ensure healthy teeth and gums and a healthy body. To schedule an appointment with family dentist Dr. James Stewart, call his Livonia, Michigan dental office at (734) 425-4400.