Snacking does not need a time. People snack between meals, while waiting, in stress, or in celebration. No one needs a reason to snack. Yet, we all know that snacking may turn into bingeing if not kept in check. While obesity and related concerns are well associate with bingeing, we tend to forget that snacking adversely affects our teeth and gums too.

So, should you stop snacking? What about those desperate times when it’s not mealtime yet but you want food? As nutritionists and fitness experts suggest, grab a carrot or an apple instead of going for that bar of chocolate in your refrigerator or the pack of potato wafers on your table. Are there any suggested snacks to help protect teeth as well? There are quite a few and all are easily available. Check out the list below:

Fruits

• Pineapple
• Orange
• Pears
• Watermelon
• Muskmelon

When consuming fruit juices, make sure they have not been artificially sweetened. The natural sweetness of the fruits is enough even to appease your taste buds.

Vegetables

• Spinach
• Carrots
• Tomatoes
• Broccoli
• Green beans
• Cucumbers

These vegetables should be consumed raw if you want to reap the benefits of them. Toss a salad with these vegetables for a tasty snack.

Dairy products

• Milk
• Yogurt
• Cheese – any low-fat variety
• Buttermilk
• Cottage Cheese

Go for the low-fat variety of milk, cheese, and yogurt for better results.

Non-vegetarian

• Salmon
• Sardines
• Chicken
• Boiled eggs

Meat and seafood are considered good for the teeth. However, make sure that you do not ruin their nutrition content by flavouring them too much. Do not over-cook the meat or spice it too much.

Others

• Almonds
• Sesame
• Whole wheat bread
• Tofu
• Sunflower seeds
• Plain popcorn

All sorts of nuts and seeds help keep your teeth healthy. So, munch on.

Consult your dentist for more food options.

Happy snacking and happy smiling!

Tags: dairy, fruit, healthy teeth, nuts, vegetables