Everyone loves sweets. May it be pastries, candies, chocolate bars or ice cream, sweets are sweets – period. It’s the best part after dinner or any time of the day actually. And whenever you start craving, that slice of blueberry cheesecake or donut is enough to satisfy it. However, it is a no-brainer that sweets have a high content of sugar, which is a threat to the teeth. Your family dentist will definitely scold you the next time you visit for cleaning. The truth is, sugar is not only evident in sweets. They can also be present in bread, cereals, dessert sauces, soda and coffee beverages. Tricky, right? Now, how are you going to even trust your food now when almost everything has sugar in it?
Some Sweet Tooth Alternatives
Everything that you eat has a great impact on your mouth and how your teeth and gums remain healthy. You’re always at your best when it comes to protecting your teeth from tooth decay and plaque buildup, especially gum diseases. But, for how long can you do this when everything that your teeth grinds can possibly be a great threat to your teeth’s health.
While your sweet craving alternatives will now focus around fruits and low in sugar foods, there are some edibles that can boost your oral health.
Calcium
- Highly present in milk, calcium plays a crucial part in keeping your bones and teeth healthy and strong. High calcium intake will lower the risk of gum diseases and tooth decay. Aside from milk, you can also get your daily dose of calcium booster in cheese, yogurt, salmon, sardines, and veggies such as broccoli and kale.
Vitamin C
- Vitamin C is our defense against infection, an immune system booster, and can also protect your teeth from gingivitis and other oral problems. Including Vitamin C in your diet regularly will secure you from any threats that can harm your teeth. Citrus fruits like tangerines, oranges, grapefruit and also kiwi are good sources of vitamin C.
Vegetables and Fruits
- Eating fresh fruits and veggies can naturally clean your teeth and protects them against plaque and other bacteria. Apples, pear, carrot, and celery are the great choice for your health and your teeth as well.
Tea
- Tea, in general, may stain your teeth, but according to studies, black tea can actually eliminate the growth of bacteria in your mouth and protects your teeth from gum diseases, cavities, and plaque. It also suppresses your cravings for sweets.
Water
- A lot of water intake does not only restrain your cravings for sweets, but it also rinses any bacteria and other food residues in the mouth.
Now, if you really wanted to satisfy your guilty pleasures, here are some teeth-friendly treats that are loaded with lots of benefits for you, and your teeth too.
Healthy Sweet Treats
Choco-Dipped Strawberry.
Using dark chocolate has lesser sugar compared to milk chocolate. Using this as a dip for fruits like strawberries will not only satisfy your cravings but will also supply you with health benefits. Dip fruits in melted dark chocolate, refrigerate until coating solidifies and then serve.
Frozen Banana Chocolate.
Being a great source of Vitamin C and B6, along with fiber and potassium having this as your dessert is absolutely fine. But if you wanted it to make it more enticingly healthy, melt dark chocolates, set aside. Freeze some bananas and once solid, roll them on your melted dark chocolate concoction and then roll them on any crunchy toppings of your choice. Freeze it again, then serve after an hour. Yum!
Yogurt Fruit Parfait.
Nothing beats this easy-to-make dessert beaut. On one cup of Greek yogurt, combine in all of your favorite healthy choices: nuts, graham crackers, and fresh fruits. Add some shaved dark chocolate and serve. It’s packed, healthy and guilt-free.
Café Mocha
This is might be the best part for coffee lovers out there. Having the boost of caffeine and the taste of dark chocolate both in one hot cup is the best way to end any meal. Go for a low-fat milk and a small serving cup for lesser calories.
Aint you craving yet? These healthy food junkies are just some of the many options you can choose from in order to maintain your healthy oral hygiene and at the same time satisfy your sweet cravings. Your dental clinic can also suggest other low-sugar snacks and treats that you can munch without worrying about your teeth. So, who says you cannot enjoy sweets, you just opt for the healthier side of sweetness.
