Ask a kid what is important to keep teeth strong and they will say, ‘Calcium’. Some may say, ‘Milk’. As adults, what do you know about nutrition for your teeth? Of course, you know you need calcium, but do you actually make it a point to include the nutrient in your diet? Make milk, yogurt, or cheese a part of your daily diet. If you are a vegan, don’t worry. You can consume green vegetables like spinach to get the necessary calcium. You can eat soy products too. For the non-vegetarians, salmon is a good source of calcium and so are sardines but you have got to include dairy products in your diet every day.

Do you know calcium cannot be absorbed by the body if you don’t have enough vitamin D? Vitamin D essentially comes from spending a couple of minutes in the sun every day. Sources of the vitamin in food are egg yolk, fish, liver, milk, and soy drinks.

Another important nutrient you need for healthy teeth is vitamin C. It helps prevent gum diseases. Guavas, mangoes, pineapples, and lemons are rich sources of vitamin C. You can also eat vegetable like tomatoes, cauliflower, and papaya.

Another important nutrient that helps your meals become balanced is roughage or fiber. Fiber not only helps clean your mouth but also your entire digestive system. And, yes, drink 8-10 glasses of water every day.

Do check with your dentist if you need to add anything specific to your diet.

Eat right and keep smiling!

Tags: food for dental health, nutrition for teeth, vitamins