Nutrition can play a huge role in how your body functions and feels, so it is no surprise that many people are constantly trying different approaches to eating. They are looking for a diet plan that is both sustainable and supports their overall wellness. If you are such an individual, your motives are certainly commendable. However, caution is in order. Not all diet trends are beneficial. In fact, some of them could harm your oral health! Here are a few popular diets that it might be better to stay away from:
Juice Cleanses
Fruit and vegetable juices have a lot of powerful nutrients. However, if you are only drinking juice, you may not be getting the fat, fiber, and protein that your body needs in order to thrive. Plus, a lot of fruit juices tend to be highly acidic. Frequently sipping on juice throughout the day could cause some significant wear and tear on your tooth enamel.
It is also worth noting that juice contains a lot of sugar. Even natural sugars can interact with the bacteria in your mouth and allow plaque to thrive. Overconsumption of sweets — including fruit juices — could lead to cavities.
Raw Food Diets
Eating whole, raw foods certainly has its benefits, especially for individuals who are concerned about consuming preservatives or ultra-processed items. Keep in mind, though, that things like nuts and seeds can get stuck between your teeth and cause bacterial growth. Plus, the overconsumption of fruits might lead to enamel erosion and cavities.
If you choose to eat mostly raw foods, it is important that you are diligent about oral hygiene.
Small, Frequent Meals
Many people find that when they eat small, frequent meals, they consume fewer calories overall. The problem with this approach is that whenever you eat, you expose your teeth to acids and leave them vulnerable to damage.
To minimize the risk of cavities and enamel wear, try to swish with water after each meal to clean your mouth. Of course, you should also make sure that meals are not too sugary. Try to opt for foods that contain tooth-friendly nutrients, such as calcium and vitamin D.
The Coffee Diet
The coffee diet advocates the consumption of coffee several times a day, including after meals, before bathing, and before exercising. Proponents claim that it can speed up your metabolism and promote fat-burning.
There is nothing wrong with enjoying coffee; it does have some health benefits. However, drinking it too frequently could cause enamel erosion, dental stains, and bad breath. Try to limit yourself to one or two cups a day.
Some diet trends can be risky for your oral health. Be sure to research the pros and cons of any eating plan before you commit to it.
Meet the Practice
The dentists and specialists at Wellesley Dental Group are proud to provide comprehensive oral care for our community. If you have questions about how certain eating habits might affect your teeth, or you are concerned about how past missteps in your diet might have affected your smile, we would be happy to help you. Contact our office at 781-691-4914.