Sometimes they come on slowly and get stronger as the day continues. On other occasions they can sneak up on you, and take you completely by surprise. We’re talking, of course, about sugar cravings. They are intense and usually impossible to avoid, in one form or another, but if you give in too often, they can have an adverse effect on your oral health and your teeth in particular.
If you are ready to learn how to overcome those sugar cravings, we have some good tips below on how to stave them off and protect your teeth, without completely depriving yourself of life’s simple pleasures in the process. Keep reading, and then give us a call at 508-222-2510 to request your next appointment at Attleboro Family Dental Care.
Try Sugar-Free Gum
It helps to have sugar-free gum around you for when the cravings come. Chewing gum reduces sugar cravings, and it is useful for helping clean your mouth. You see, chewing gum encourages the production of saliva. Saliva helps wash away bacteria and leftover food particles while reducing the acids that cling to teeth and wear away tooth enamel. It’s an easy way to save your smile!
Brush and Floss Every Day (Twice)
You can also fight your sugar cravings by brushing and flossing your teeth. When you begin to crave an unhealthy sweet, pay a visit to the sink and clean your teeth. Brushing and flossing your teeth will distract you from your craving and you will be less likely to indulge in an unhealthy treat after just cleaning your teeth. It really works!
Reconfigure Your Menu
More often than not, if an immediate craving strikes, it is your body’s way of telling you it needs certain nutrients. If you are constantly being hit with cravings, it could be a sign you should reexplore your diet. Are you getting the vitamins and minerals your body needs? Are you eating a variety of fruits and vegetables? Are you eating enough protein?
If your diet is not providing proper nutrients, you are far more likely to experience cravings. You are also at a higher risk of developing oral health problems and other health issues. Try to follow a more balanced diet that is rich in natural, whole foods, and be amazed at what it will do for your sugar cravings.
Make Healthy Choices
Moderation is key. You can treat your sweet tooth to something amazing here and there, but you shouldn’t give in every time a craving hits. To keep things balanced, try substituting healthy alternatives that still feel like a treat, without bringing on any damage to your teeth or overall health. Try fruit smoothies or yogurts that are low in sugar and add fresh fruit, nuts, or coconut chips to sweeten it up and add flavor. You will love how delicious some healthy alternatives can be.
We hope you have been inspired by what you just heard. To learn more about how you can prevent the negative effects of eating too much sugar, call Attleboro Family Dental Care and schedule a preventive dental appointment in Attleboro, MA. We will do everything we can to keep you happy and healthy. Call 508-222-2510 today.
The post Protect Your Teeth From Sugar Cravings appeared first on Dr. Hikmat Hannawi v2.