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Healthy gums are vital for your overall health. Gum disease is linked to many diseases such as diabetes, osteoporosis, and heart disease. Thankfully, early stages of gum disease are reversible with the right oral hygiene routine, professional dental care, and a healthy diet. Continue reading to find out the 5 best foods you can eat for healthy gums!
These include macadamia nuts, pistachios, sesame seeds. Omega-3s are essential to a well-rounded, nutrient-dense diet. They are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and our bodies need them for a healthy immune system. Furthermore, studies have found that omega-3 intake is inversely associated with gum disease.
Shiitake mushrooms contain lentinan, a polysaccharide only found in this particular type of mushroom. Lentinan attacks the harmful gum disease causing bacteria while leaving other bacteria alone. Shiitake mushrooms are also powerfully anti-inflammatory. You can sauté them as a side to a main course or add them to your favourite vegetable dishes.
Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of nutrients but they made this list specifically for their beta carotene content. Beta carotene is an essential nutrient in the fight against gum disease. It provides your body with the elements it needs to create Vitamin A, which reduces inflammation.
Click here to check out an easy and healthy recipe incorporating shiitake mushrooms and sweet potatoes.
Another delicious item that is great for your gums is green tea. It’s high in catechins- disease fighting phenols and antioxidants. Catechins have shown to be effective in treating gum disease through inhibiting harmful bacteria and preventing inflammation. Not only is green tea high in catechins, but it’s also been found to have an inverse relationship with periodontal disease. Meaning those that drink more green tea have a lower chance of developing gum disease.
Cacao is also high in disease-fighting catechins, which help stop gum disease. It is great for your teeth overall because it fights cavities, plaque, and tooth decay. It also contains a compound called CBH, which hardens your enamel.
To eat cacao that’s actually good for you and not loaded with sugar, go for a raw chocolate that is 70% or more. Look for a low sugar content too. Cocoa and cacao differ in processing. Cacao hasn’t been exposed to high heat, is still raw, and contains 300+ compounds, many of which are beneficial to your health.
Prevention is always better than cure. Now that you know what foods to eat for healthy gums, you are better equipped to prevent or stop gum disease from progressing.
If you have any questions regarding your dental health, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Click here to schedule an appointment at Britannia Dental Care, or call: 905-785-1412, email: reception@britanniadentalcare.com.
