Eating locally grown foods is better for the environment, our community and your health. Here in Idaho, you may be wondering: what Idaho foods are great for my kid's tooth health?
Look no further. We've compiled a list of Idaho native foods that won't destroy your teeth.
Potato
Potatoes have some pros and cons when it comes to tooth health. They're starchy, which means that they stick to your teeth. But they also contain a large amount of vitamin D, a very important building block of healthy teeth.
One regular Idaho potato also gives you 45% of your daily C, a vitamin very important for healthy gums. Unhealthy gums lead to unhealthy teeth, so it's important that you're getting enough vitamin C.
Steer clear of unhealthy foods like French fries and potato chips. Instead, make a baked potato topped with a moderate amount of butter, sour cream or cheese along with ample chives, shallots, diced tomatoes or a good 3 bean chili.
Make your child's mouth and stomach happy.
Barley
Barley contains manganese, phosphorous and copper. Your body needs these nutrients to keep your teeth strong.
Barley makes a great porridge similar to oatmeal. If your child simply must add sugar to this breakfast, head it off by mixing in berries or small apple slices.
Looking for something more hearty? Mix barley with veggies, spices and beef for a beef and veggie soup.
Beans
Beans have many health benefits. But to top it off, they're calcium rich. Calcium is important throughout your life to help keep teeth and bones healthy. But it's especially important for younger children whose teeth and bones are still developing.
When possible, opt for fresh beans grown right here in Idaho. Serve them up as a healthy side. Or make them a meal as a bean salad.
Apples
Apples are another food with pros and cons.
They're high in sugar and acid that are bad for your teeth. But they're a healthier alternative to sugary snacks with little nutrition. They'll help keep your and your child's sugar cravings at bay.
While raw veggies are better, the lightly abrasive texture of an apple can help remove built up from the teeth in which bacteria thrive, causing tooth decay.
Always eat apples whole, fresh and raw to get the greatest benefits.
And skip the apple juice. It's loaded with sugar.
Peppermint
Peppermint is another food grown here in Idaho that has tooth benefits as long as we're not putting in into candy canes and cookies.
A study published in the US National Library of Medicine found that peppermint oil is very effective in the fight against bacteria in the mouth. Too much bacteria in the mouth leads to gum disease and tooth decay.
Add some fresh mint to your tea. Mix it with Greek yogurt, berries and milled flax seed for a calcium rich breakfast.
Looking for more ways to keep your and your child's teeth healthy and strong? We are an Idaho native dentist! Call us today to schedule an appointment.