People living in Florida have a diet full of seafood, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables. Did you know that a coastal diet can impact your dental health? Basically, anything you eat affects your teeth and gums. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, while dairy products help you get calcium for strong teeth. Leafy green veggies and fruits are good for saliva production.
While a coastal diet has its own set of benefits, it does not replace a good oral hygiene routine. Regular visits to a Ponte Vedra dentist are still vital. In fact, you should schedule your yearly check-up on time to make sure you can keep enjoying your favorite food items without worry. Read this blog to understand the positive and negative impact of a Florida coastal diet.
Commonly eaten foods in a coastal diet
The coastal diet in Florida comprises various items, including nutrient-rich foods. These offer various benefits for your dental health. Understanding them is important to make sure you have a balanced diet.
- Seafood.
Seafood is one of the most common parts of a Florida coastal diet. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and improve gum health. EPA and DHA work towards relieving periodontal issues and promoting better gum health. Seafood is also rich in phosphorus and Vitamin D, both of which are crucial for dental health.
- Citrus fruits.
Florida residents eat citrus fruits a lot. These are packed with Vitamin C which is important for gum health. They also help with collagen production that maintains gum tissue. Therefore, incorporating citrus fruits into your diet can help prevent conditions like gingivitis. However, they must be consumed in a balanced amount as too much of it can lead to enamel erosion.
- Fresh vegetables.
Fresh vegetables are an important component of the Florida coastal diet, increasing your fiber intake. Dietary fiber, typically obtained from leafy greens, stimulates saliva production. This helps prevent dry mouth and bacteria by neutralizing the acids in your mouth. Vegetables are also rich in antioxidants that help with gum inflammation.
Are there any potential risks of the Florida coastal diet?
While the coastal diet that Florida residents take has numerous benefits for oral health, it can also have a negative impact. For instance, their diet often includes acidic items, such as citrus fruits. The citric acid in these fruits can significantly contribute to enamel erosion. Therefore, they should be consumed in moderation.
Additionally, the citrus fruits can also cause canker sores. The high level of acidity can irritate your gum tissues. This can cause discomfort in eating in daily life. Seafood, a staple in the Florida diet, contains a high amount of sugar. The sugar residue left in your mouth is the breeding ground for bacteria. It is important to rinse your mouth after every meal to prevent decay.
Balancing your diet for optimal dental health
Regardless of your diet or where you are from, there is always going to be something in your food that might not be the best for your dental health. It is important to know how to enjoy your favorite foods while also taking care of your dental health.
The key is to maintain a balanced diet. If you love citrus fruits, make sure to eat them in moderation. You can use a straw while drinking citrus fruit juices to reduce its effect on your enamel. Similarly, make sure to rinse your mouth properly and brush twice a day to avoid bacteria build-up after having seafood.
Another trick you can follow is adding dairy components to your diet. Dairy items, such as milk and cheese, can neutralize the acids in your mouth. They also contain calcium, necessary for stronger teeth.
Follow the right diet!
If you are from Florida and worried that your diet might lead to poor oral health, you are not alone. Visit your dentist today to ensure you are up-to-date with your dental health status.
