When the internet makes informational lists about food, it is almost always a guideline for foods that are either bad for you, or foods you should never touch with a 10-foot pole. With all the lists floating around that are focused on what to not eat, it’s starting to feel like everything that tastes good is bad for you and it’s time to just give up and accept our fate.
Well today we’re going to break that trend and give you a list of foods that are good for you and your teeth. Don’t worry, this list isn’t full of kale and quinoa either; while those are very good for you, they aren’t always the most appetizing! No judgment here.
Crunchy Nuts
Nuts are a great snack to curb those in-between meals urge to eat forever. Almonds for example are high in phosphorus, potassium, zinc, magnesium, and calcium, all of which are extremely good for your teeth. Eating foods that are high in protein and provide good nutrients are good for your overall health. Try to find some that are unsalted.
Crispy and Juicy Fruit
Fruits like apples or pears will not only provide a healthy snack or side to your meal, they also help clean your teeth while you eat! The bacteria-bashing and acid-neutralizing enzymes contained in these fruits will help clean your teeth against plaque. How’s that for multi-tasking?
Dairy
Milk, cheese, and yogurt are all delicious things to eat, and while everything should be taken in moderation, these dairy products contain important vitamins that promote healthy teeth. Calcium, phosphates, and vitamin D are found in these foods, so get out that cheese plate and wash it down with a glass of milk.
Crispy Vegetables
Water and a fibrous substance is all it takes to brush and clean food particles off your teeth, and you guessed it, vegetables like celery and carrots contain both. Vegetables are healthy, delicious, and cleansing!
Sugarless Gum
If you like to chew gum, try to make sure they are a sugar free brand before you chew away. Gum will help remove food particles stuck to your teeth while also promoting healthy saliva flow. Not bad for a habit requiring zero thought and effort.
Just remember, everything in moderation, some of these foods (like dairy) contain a lot of fat, so even while they are good for one part of your body, they aren’t always good for the rest! Bon appétit!
