Weight Loss and Dental HealtH

With the start of the new year, many of us make getting in shape a resolution of ours. Below are some weight loss tips, that can also benefit your teeth! Implement these changes to see a difference on the scale and with your oral health: 

• When Planning Meals…  
  • Ensure you are consuming healthy portion sizes and the recommended daily servings of each food group:  
    • Fruits and Vegetables: 
      • Should make up approximately 50% of your diet
      • Stimulates saliva production, which rinses away the food particles away from  your teeth
      • Aids in neutralizing harmful acids, which protects your teeth from cavities
      • High in water and fiber content 
    • Grains: 
      • At least 50% of the grains you consume should be whole grains or low in sugar
        • Try: oatmeal, whole wheat bread, and brown rice 
    • Protein: 
      • Pick lean protein, such as: lean beef, skinless poultry, fish 
      • Include eggs, beans, peas, and legumes to add variety 
      • Phosphorus rich foods help keep your mouth healthy and keep you full for a longer time period 
    • Dairy: 
      • Choose low-fat or fat-free options 
      • Protein and calcium are both beneficial for your teeth and gums 

• When Picking a Drink… 
  • Water is the best choice,  always! 
    • Many other beverages will contain surprisingly high quantities of sugar and unnecessary calories, that make keeping the weight off more challenging 
    • Water also keeps cavities away by washing away leftover food particles 
    • Lastly, an added bonus – if the water is fluoridated! 

• When Craving Dessert… 
  • Reach for a piece of sugarless gum or some fruit
    • Research supports that chewing gum after eating can even reduce risk of cavities 

• When Reaching for a Snack… 
  • Limit the quantity and frequency of your snacking to help control calorie intake 
  • Excessive snacking also feeds the bacteria in your mouth 
  • If you do snack, choose a nutritious option, such as: granola bars, cheese, vegetables, fruits, nuts, or yogurt
    • Make sure to brush your teeth as soon as possible afterwards as well, if your snacking habit is in the evenings 

In conjunction with these suggested improvements to your diet, strive to achieve at least 2.5 hours of moderately intense physical activity weekly. With due time, positive changes to your physical and oral health will come!! 

Read more at:   https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/nutrition/weight-loss