sugarAfter the festive season, we are all guilty of just-one-bite-turns-a-whole-thing meals and wish we didn’t give in so many times. Especially the desserts, the beautiful, addictive, irresistible, and full of sugar desserts.  For a better self and better teeth this New Year, let’s learn to cut down some sweets step by step.  Use these two simple do’s and two simple don’ts to get started.

Healthier Teeth in Temecula

Cut the snacks: What’s in the past, stays in the past. So begin by gifting or getting rid of all the leftovers of cakes, cookies, pies, cupcakes and other sugary sweet.  Start building your meals with nutritious food.  This is especially the case with snacks in between meals.  Try alternative and healthier snacks to lower cravings for sweet stuff during the day.

Cut the Fruits: Fruits are great and healthy. There is nothing wrong with switching to them instead of artificial sweet treats.  However, canned and dried fruits are processed with as much sugar as many candies. Instead, get yourself fresh fruits mixed with nuts, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, carrots, and other fresh greens. Try coupling them with hummus, salsa, and guacamole for a tasty and sugar-free snacking party.

Don’t bypass the labels: Always read food nutrition labels. Being alert to what’s printed there can help you to eat healthier and protect your teeth. If you see a high sugar percentage per serving, pick something else. When checking the texts, focus on the fiber, calcium, and protein that your teeth and your body will be thankful for.

Don’t cut the water: Dehydration can make you crave for sugary things such as soft drinks and sweet bites, so drink water regularly to keep the cravings away. Water may not cleanse your teeth, but at least it doesn’t layer up on them like sugar does, which prevent you from issues such as tooth decay.

Dr. Mehta encourages each of her patients to seek healthier eating options.  In fact, she promotes whole health dentistry to the communities of Temecula and Riverside.