NO DOUBT YOU’VE HEARD that vitamins and minerals are good for your child’s overall health. But did you know that many of those same vitamins and minerals are very important to the health of your child’s smile? Read on!
Does Your Child’s Diet (and your own) Include An Ample Supply Of These Important Vitamins & Minerals?
Calcium
Calcium protects your teeth from decay and your gums from disease. It also helps keep your jaw (and other bones) strong. Calcium can be found in milk, yogurt, cheese, oysters, beans, etc.
Magnesium
Magnesium helps with the healthy formation of your jaw, teeth, and gum tissue. It can be found in leafy greens, nuts and seeds, fish, whole grains, bananas, and even dark chocolate! Yummm…
Iron
Iron helps prevent mouth sores and inflammation of the tongue. It can be found in red meats, bran cereals, spices, and some nuts.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A helps saliva flow (and thus washes away bacteria). It also helps maintain a healthy mucous membrane and mouth tissues. It can be found in beef liver, sweet potatoes, spinach, melon, etc.
Tips For Smile-Healthy Eating Habits
The information in this video applies to your child AND you. It also applies to your friends, extended family members, neighbors, and coworkers—so pass this blog post (and video) along!
Vitamin B2
Vitamin B2 helps prevent mouth fissures and can be found in dairy products, lean steaks, pasta, bagels, mushrooms, spinach, almonds, etc.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C helps prevent inflammation and bleeding in the mouth. It also helps heal any mouth wounds you may have. It can be found in sweet potatoes, oranges, red peppers, etc.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium. Without vitamin D, you may experience burning mouth syndrome. The best way to get vitamin D is to spend some time in the sun! You can also consume milk, egg yolks, and fish.
A Helpful Resource For Learning More
The U.S. Department Of Agriculture’s website is a helpful resource in determining whether or not your child (and again, you) are getting the nutrients your body needs. The site also has fun activities and videos for kids, so check it out!