As the holidays are frequently loaded with sweet delights and indulgent desserts, it can be challenging to maintain a balanced diet. However, meeting your nutritional needs is important year-round. Even though treating yourself every now and then is acceptable, maintaining a balance of leafy greens, lean meats, fiber fruits, and whole grains will help you stop your sugar cravings before they have a chance to affect your weight or your oral health.
If you want to keep your teeth healthy throughout the holidays, your Miami dentist recommends following these simple steps.
Avoid the Breakfast Pastries
What could be more satisfying in the morning than a warm chocolate croissant or a slice of coffee cake? These warm breakfast options look and feel nice when served with a warm cup of coffee, but the joy they provide is fleeting. Choose a breakfast that will keep you energized and satisfied, just as you would at any other time of the year. A morning sugar rush will inevitably result in an afternoon crash and a need for sleep, but eating something more filling will give you the energy you need for your holiday to-do list. Consider consuming a green smoothie along with some brown sugar-dusted oats. In this approach, you not only get the nutrition you need to get through the day but also a hearty supper that will make you feel festive.
Reduce Your Alcohol Consumption
It would be difficult to find a holiday gathering that didn’t serve alcohol. However, drinking alcohol can make you overeat on those calorie-dense appetizers and decadent desserts. Additionally, alcohol contains a lot of sugar, which can harm your mouth and gums as well as attach to your teeth. Depending on your body weight and tolerance, one or two glasses of wine with supper are usually acceptable, but water or freshly squeezed juice are just as enjoyable. If you do decide to indulge, plan ahead for a designated driver and only consume alcohol in moderation.
Stay Hydrated
Even when temperatures are low, you still need to drink water. Maintain your regular water intake schedule (at least 64 ounces daily) to remove toxins from your body and bacteria from your mouth. Additionally, drinking water can make you feel fuller than usual, which may encourage you to consume less calories overall.
To learn more about the benefits of holistic dentistry in Miami and how to create healthy habits for a healthier you, please visit Assure a Smile online or call our friendly front desk at 305-723-9589.
