Antioxidants are substances in many foods and beverages that you may have heard can improve your overall well-being. These compounds identify and combat toxins within your body that could otherwise cause problems with your health. People with chronic conditions, like heart disease or diabetes, can lower their risk of further medical complications with the help of antioxidants.
Antioxidant-rich foods can relieve discomfort and stress, but you might not realize that these items can also boost your oral health, especially your gums. Read on to find details about how including antioxidants in your diet will keep your smile healthy.
How Do Antioxidants Influence Oral Health?
Health benefits from antioxidants stem from their ability to reduce the harmful effects of your body’s inflammatory response. When toxins, such as infections, enter your body, your immune system starts to fight the intruders with inflammation. While this reaction is crucial to staying healthy, the process can put your body in other types of danger.
Acute inflammation may present with swelling and irritation in certain body parts. Periodontal disease, for instance, an infection in your gum tissue, will leave your gums feeling sore and looking puffy as your body fights excess bacteria.
To get rid of gum disease for good, you will need periodontal therapy from your dentist or periodontist. But you can relieve some of the uncomfortable symptoms of this infection by consuming antioxidant-rich foods. They can reduce your chances of further oral infections as well.
Do not ignore changes in your gum health because gum disease can advance quickly without professional treatment. Bacteria may severely damage your gums, teeth, and jawbone and even lead to tooth loss. Discuss how your diet can influence your oral health by talking to a periodontist or a dentist today.
Which Foods Contain Antioxidants?
After learning how antioxidants can boost your gum and dental health, you will likely wonder how to include these substances in your diet. Many types of fruits make excellent sources of antioxidants, including peaches, cherries, and berries. Dried fruits feature less water, meaning they have a higher ratio of antioxidants.
Nuts and certain vegetables, like spinach, avocados, broccoli, and squash, also contain antioxidants. You can include more antioxidants in the dishes you prepare by using spices like turmeric, ginger, garlic, and herbs.
Review your existing recipes to brainstorm ways to enhance them with antioxidants. And pay attention to the groceries you purchase. Make sure you avoid added sugar and other ingredients that could pose a threat to your smile.
Many beverages also feature antioxidants, especially fruit juices and green tea. Consult with an oral health professional to discuss other ways you can enrich your diet to boost your gum and dental health.
However, you should not take supplements containing antioxidants without talking to a doctor. Good nutrition means consuming a balanced diet, so you do not want to overconsume antioxidants. Otherwise, you might face other health concerns that will neutralize the benefits of this substance.