Thanksgiving is a holiday infamous for its amazing food choices- many of which are not especially healthy. To have a healthy, guilt-free, holiday meal, follow these Snow Family Dentistry tips!
Serve a Healthy Appetizer
Put cheese cubes, vegetables and mixed nuts out for guests to snack on while dinner is prepared. Cheese is great for teeth because it contains strength-building calcium. Casein, a protein found in milk products, fortifies the surfaces of teeth, which can help prevent cavities. Nuts contain calcium and minerals that strengthen teeth. Chewing nuts also produces extra saliva, which fights germs and prevents decay. Eating raw vegetables can also produce a lot of saliva, which washes away bacteria. The fibrous strands of celery are particularly good for dental health because they help clean between teeth.
Cook with Sesame Oil
Sauté your favorite vegetables in sesame oil for a tasty side dish. Sesame oil has been shown to reduce the effects of plaque and, in some cases, to reverse the effects of gingivitis.
Choose a Healthy Desert
If you’re looking for a healthy desert option, try pearl slices with a yogurt dip. Fresh pears have been shown to neutralize acid on the surface of teeth, and Calcium and phosphates in yogurt can have a strengthening effect.
To make this dish, thinly slice a pear, arrange on a platter and serve with a dip made by combining a cup of plain Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons of honey and a dash of ground cinnamon.
Be Mindful of Your Beverage Choices
Choose healthy beverage options like water or tea. Tap water contains fluoride which reverses damage to enamel caused by acids. Green and black tea kill bacteria, thus fighting cavities.
Why Choose Snow Family Dentistry
With these healthy Thanksgiving tips, it is possible to enjoy a delicious holiday dinner without gaining weight or jeopardizing your sparkling smile.
Think you may need a checkup or whitening service before the holidays? Click here to schedule an appointment with Snow Family Dentistry today!
