A holiday feast that’s good for your teeth
November 24th, 2014
There’s another thing to be grateful for this Thanksgiving: Many elements of the traditional Turkey Day fare nourish your health and smile.
Thanksgiving — that tried-and-true American holiday with origins tracing back to autumn 1621 — is unique in that the modern-day version revolves almost entirely around a meal.
Lucky for us, much of the holiday spread has side effects other than causing pants to fit a bit more snugly after enjoying. Turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberries and even pumpkin pie — yes, pumpkin pie! — are packed with nutrients ranging from phosphorous to vitamins A and C, translating to stronger tooth enamel, and even prevention of loose teeth and oral cancer.
So go ahead. Celebrate, and dig in — but for the sake of your health eat a slice and not the whole pie.
Give Thanks for a Healthy Smile
Turkey
- Rich in phosphorus
- Aids in tooth development
- Rebuilds tooth enamel
- Helps prevent bone loss
Spinach, kale, brussels sprouts, broccoli
- Supply vitamins A&C
- Help prevent bleeding gums, loose teeth and oral cancer
Cranberries
- Prevent bacteria from sticking to your teeth
Potatoes
- Full of nutrients, and unlike other starchy foods, they don’t stick to your teeth
Pumpkin pie
- Good source of vitamin C, iron, niacin and potassium
