The most recent adaptation of US Department of Agriculture’s food pyramid recommends 2 1/2 cups of vegetables and 2 cups of fruit each day. Eating the right variety of fruits and vegetables can strongly affect your dental health. We’re here to tell you about some of the best vegetables and fruits to eat, based on five of the most important vitamins and minerals for your teeth.
Vitamin A prevents decay and helps the formation of healthy soft tissues and teeth. Unpeeled sweet potatoes, spinach, broccoli, and carrots are excellent vitamin A sources.
Vitamin B is actually a complex of eight 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. That means it prevents free radicals from attacking cells and causing decay. This vitamin is also vital in regeneration of connective tissue cells—helping prevent gum disease—along with your skin and bones. 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 fortified mushrooms.
Calcium is in Bok Choy (Chinese cabbage), collards, broccoli, kale, and turnip greens.
A healthy diet can protect your dental health, and so can dental cleanings and checkups. Call our Lake Orion, MI, dental practice today for your appointment with Dr. Brad Greenfield.
Sources:
The National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health
Dentistry.com
