Thanksgiving is almost here! It’s my favorite holiday of the year as the tradition
of giving thanks is uplifting, hanging out with friends and family therapeutic and
the fact that we don’t have to run around getting gifts and decorating the
house, the yard, and the kids very liberating.
And then, of course, there is the food… oh the THANKSGIVING FOOD: turkey and all the trimmings, cranberry
sauce, mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole, green beans, pumpkin pie!
And the best thing from the dental
stand point is that many of these foods promote good dental health. Surprised??? Well, here is the scoop of why the
traditional foods served at Thanksgiving have been shown to prevent tooth decay
and gum disease.
- Carrots and Celery: Often served alongside a roast turkey, carrots and celery are vegetables which are rich in fiber. Besides being great for your stomach, fiber stimulates your gums, which is good for your dental health.
- Sweet Potatoes or Mashed Potatoes: Potatoes are richly nutritious with a proper balance of vitamins and nutrients appropriate for oral health. They are loaded with carbs and proteins and rich in vitamin B and C. Potatoes do not stick on the teeth unlike other starchy foods which serve as haven for oral bacteria.
- Cranberries: Recent research indicates that cranberries hinder the oral bacteria from sticking to the teeth and forming dental plaque.
- Turkey: It is considered to help in remineralization of the enamel whose minerals are damaged by acid produced by bacteria.
- Greens and Winter Vegetables: Most Veggies are just great for health. They are a great source of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin C, flavanoids and coenzyme Q10. These prevent the gums against damage and promote their healing.
So have a safe and Happy
Thanksgiving and enjoy your food! Don’t forget
however to brush and floss afterwards right before you fall asleep full of
turkey, pies, and another year of wonderful memories.
