There’s no shame in dieting. It’s admirable to want to eat healthier and improve your physical wellness through smarter meal choices. However, not every nutritional fad is all that it’s cracked up to be. Overly restrictive diets can actually be dangerous, and your oral health isn’t excluded from the risks. It’s important to do your research and be well-informed about nutrition – conveniently, you can learn a thing or two by reading this short post!
“Detoxifying” Juice Cleanses
A juice cleanse is usually a strict juice-only diet that lasts for about two weeks. The idea behind it is to consume lots of fruits and vegetables in a way that “detoxes” your digestive system. However, there’s not enough scientific evidence to suggest that juice cleanses actually accomplish this or result in long-term weight loss.
When it comes to your oral health, juice cleanses can damage your enamel, weakening your natural defenses against cavities and other conditions. Just like soda, juice can be very acidic, which is bad news for your smile!
Keto
Keto diets have boomed in popularity recently, so chances are you’ve heard of this one. The goal is to eat high-fat foods and avoid carbs to trigger ketosis, which is when your body burns fat for energy because there aren’t enough carbs in your system. Whether this is an effective and safe nutritional plan is still being debated.
What’s not-so-debated is the effect keto diets have on your breath! It causes your mouth to produce a distinct, unpleasant smell that can’t be cured with oral hygiene. Additionally, these diets tend to be low in vitamins C, A, and K, which are vital for healthy teeth. Make sure you’re getting enough essential nutrients if you’re going to try keto.
Paleo, Atkins, and Other Carb-Avoidant Diets
Similar to keto, low-carb diets try to get your body to burn more fat instead of carbohydrates. The oral health risk here lies in the “hydrate” part of “carbohydrates.” Carbs help stimulate saliva and keep your mouth moist, just the way your pearly whites like it. When you eat less of them, odds are you’ll develop dry mouth, which can make it easier for cavities and gum disease to develop and spread.
Drink plenty of water while on low-carb diets and ask your dentist for dry-mouth prevention tips.
Conclusion
Dieting isn’t always risky or bad for your health. Your body is simply complicated, and great care and consideration should be taken before cutting out entire food groups. Your doctor can help you make sure you diet safely and productively, and your dentist can help you maintain your beautiful smile!
About the Practice
Dr. Kirstin Walther and Dr. Ransey Boyd are highly experienced dentists who work hard to stay up to date with the latest dental research and technology. If you’re thinking about starting a new diet, they can help you determine the best way to protect and care for your smile! To contact Dr. Walther and Dr. Boyd’s office, call 850-878-4117.