COLUMN: Healthy body and smile

Summer is just around the corner and already the supermarkets are stocking up on their variety of salad and fruit produce.

Nutritious foods are not only healthy for your body but also for your teeth. The health of your teeth just like your body is dependant on a good variety of foods, if your diet is low in nutrients your mouth may have a more difficult time resisting infection.

Eating a high amount of sugary foods such as sweets, cakes, biscuits and doughnuts will not only lead to weight gain and the risk of other diet related illnesses but will contribute to gum disease and tooth decay.

To maintain a balanced diet try to eat a variety of foods from each of the five major food groups, vegetables, fruit, grain, lean meats, poultry and fish, milk, yogurt cheese or alternatives.

Some foods are especially good for our teeth and gums. Cheese raises the PH in your mouth and can reduce your risk of tooth decay, it also contains calcium and protein which helps to strengthen tooth enamel and bones.

Probiotics and beneficial bacteria in yogurt can help to keep your gums healthy, whilst eating an apple high in fibre and water produces more saliva in your mouth which rinses away bacteria and food particles.

Drinking plenty of water will help quench your thirst, remove waste products from the body, is essential for kidney function keeps your skin hydrated and glowing and as it has no calories or sugar is very much the preferred choice for healthy teeth.

Tracey runs regular weekly exercise classes for ladies of all ages and abilities.

You can contact her on 07970 029465 or email tracey@spaldingfitness.co.uk for further details or advice on any class.

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