If you want to maintain your health and live a long, happy life, there are plenty of delicious foods to support you. Whether you want to lose weight or lower your risk for diabetes, most items in the produce section will serve you well. But what about foods that promote dental health? It turns out there are quite a few delicious and nutritious options out there.
The following recipes include these and other beneficial ingredients so you can take care of your teeth and your body, as a whole.
1. Easy Teriyaki-Glazed Salmon Bowls
What’s for dinner? These sweet and savory teriyaki-glazed salmon bowls, of course! It might sound fancy, but this delicious meal is super easy to make. Plus, it’s full of tooth-boosting ingredients, including salmon and avocado. Both foods are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce gum inflammation and pockets that cause loose teeth.
First, season four, 5-ounce salmon filets and cook them skin-side down over medium-low heat. Flip the salmon after about six minutes and cook until its internal temperature is at least 120°F. Then, transfer the salmon to a paper towel to drain. Divide four cups of cooked white or brown rice between four bowls. Top with diced avocado, cucumber and scallions.
Finally, place a salmon filet atop each bowl of rice and veggies. Use a spoon to evenly glaze each one. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and dig in.
2. Mango-Almond Smoothie Bowl
If you want a breakfast that’ll put a smile on your face, try whipping up a mango-almond smoothie bowl. This thick, creamy meal is brimming with healthy foods that are good for your teeth. Yogurt and almonds are rich in calcium, a nutrient that strengthens tooth enamel. Plus, the banana contains potassium, which helps your teeth use calcium more efficiently.
Combine frozen banana and mango with nonfat Greek yogurt, unsweetened almond milk, almonds and allspice in a blender. Be sure to use frozen fruit to achieve that classic frosty texture. Pour the smoothie into a bowl and top with raspberries, almonds, honey and whatever else your heart desires.
3. Roasted Carrots
Sometimes, all you need is a side dish to round out lunch or dinner. Instead of reaching for bread, chips or worse — dessert! — make some roasted carrots. Their natural sweetness will satisfy your cravings and add some color to your plate. Plus, they’re naturally abrasive, so they clean your teeth while you crunch and munch. Break apart plaque, food particles and bacteria with this simple recipe.
Prepare one pound of heirloom carrots by peeling, scrubbing, rinsing and drying them. Cut any large carrots in half lengthwise. Line a baking pan with foil and toss the carrots with melted butter, salt and pepper. Then, cover them with another layer of foil and roll the edges to create a steam packet. Roast at 425°F for 15 minutes and serve warm.
4. Apple Pecan Arugula Salad
This salad screams fall, but the classic mix of crisp apple, toasted pecan and peppery arugula it’s just as tasty during winter. The leafy greens promote dental health by reinforcing tooth enamel, while the apples scrub your teeth much the same way as carrots. Meanwhile, the pecans keep your teeth healthy and strong by providing you with calcium, phosphorus and other essential nutrients.
Preheat your oven to 350°F and arrange the pecans on a baking sheet. Roast until golden brown and set aside. Meanwhile, slice your red onion and dice the apples. Make the salad dressing by combining three tablespoons of lemon juice, one tablespoon of maple syrup, one pinch of salt and black pepper and three tablespoons of olive oil. Add all ingredients to a salad bowl and toss with the dressing to combine.
5. Lentil Soup with Quinoa and Mushrooms
If you’re in the mood for a hearty helping of soup, choose this recipe. The lentils have a high roughage content to wash away food particles and keep your smile white and bright. They also protect you from cavities by ridding your mouth of harmful enamel-destroying bacteria. Mushrooms can also prevent bacteria adhesion, cavities, periodontal disease and inflammation. Shitake are especially beneficial, and this dish calls for a whole cup of them.
First, heat the oil in a heavy saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the onions, celery, thyme, carrots, salt and pepper. Cook until the veggies are soft and begin to brown. Then, add the vegetable stock and diced tomatoes. When it comes to a boil, mix in the lentils, quinoa and mushrooms. Simmer for 35 minutes and garnish with olive oil, pepper and balsamic vinegar., if desired.
Taking a Holistic Approach
While eating tooth-boosting foods can undoubtedly do your chompers some good, it’s important to take a holistic approach to dental health. In addition to eating well, you should maintain a consistent brushing and flossing routine, ideally twice a day.
You should also drink plenty of water to minimize bacteria and plaque buildup and keep your breath smelling fresh. Limit foods that might stain your pearly whites, like coffee and red wine. If you do indulge in these beverages, sip through a straw or brush your teeth shortly afterward.
By taking a comprehensive approach to dental health, you can keep your teeth and entire body healthy. That beautiful smile is just the cherry on top.
Comments are closed.