With the holidays around the corner, the thing you may be most excited for is all of the festive foods! They are tasty treats that can get you in the spirit, but many of them are loaded with sugar. You may be at a higher risk of cavities if you overindulge, so you should adjust your planned diet to be a bit more smile-friendly. Here are some alternatives to enjoy this season.
Broccoli Cheese Soup
If you are cooking for you and your family, serving something with vegetables may not sound appealing to everyone. However, if they love cheese, loading up broccoli with it can make it a more delectable meal! This is a classic that can help you stay warm in the winter weather. Better yet, it’s full of vitamin C and K, which aid in gum inflammation while strengthening your teeth.
Roasted Chestnuts
This option can be a great snack that is very much in season. As it’s a fun callback to a popular Christmas song, chestnuts are also rich in calcium and phosphorus. These two make up the structure of each tooth, so getting these minerals can help fortify your smile.
Whole Grain Bread Rolls
Having a bread roll as a side can be a great addition to your meals. Hands may reach for them left and right, but you should be careful about what type of bread you have on the table. Carbs in white flour rolls get broken down into sugars, increasing your risk of cavities. However, the ones found in whole grain options take longer to turn into these types of particles, which makes it a safer option for your smile.
Low-Sugar Gingerbread
Ginger is a great spice that has anti-inflammatory properties, making it helpful in preventing gum disease. However, if you and your family tend to reach for gingerbread cookies and the like, these are often high in sugar. You should try to make your own and reduce how much there is or use natural sweeteners. That way, you can still enjoy this holiday favorite without harming your smile.
Enjoy Your Favorites in Moderation
There are many more ways that you can turn the food of this season into healthier alternatives. Making that small change can turn this time of year into a friendly one for your smile. You can still enjoy your regular treats, but keep them in moderation. Don’t overindulge and try not to eat too much sugar; that way, you can keep you and your family’s oral health in great shape.
About the Author
Dr. Zahara Munis earned her dental degree from the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry. She has since dedicated herself to continuing her education so that she can give the Austin community the high-quality care they deserve. Dr. Munis is happy to help you and your family keep up with great oral health through routine checkups and cleanings. If you want to keep your smile strong during the holidays, schedule an appointment or call her office at (512) 371-7239.