GoodFood – Rospotrebnadzor presented nutritional recommendations for the prevention of caries and strengthening tooth enamel.
According to department experts, the condition of teeth directly depends on the intake of necessary micronutrients into the body.
Microelements for dental health
The main helpers in maintaining oral health are fluoride and calcium. Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and protects against the development of caries. This element is found in high concentrations in sea fish (mackerel, pollock, cod, salmon and flounder), walnuts, wholemeal bread and black tea.
Calcium is responsible for the strength of dental tissue. Its sources are almonds, beans and soybeans, sesame seeds, raisins and dried apricots. Green vegetables are also rich in calcium: cabbage, lettuce, dill, parsley and sorrel.
Dairy products are traditionally considered the main source of calcium. However, not all dairy products are equally beneficial for teeth. Sugary milkshakes and ice cream can be harmful due to their high sugar content, which slows down the body’s absorption of calcium. Hard cheeses are the most beneficial for teeth, as they help restore damaged tooth enamel.
Experts note that calcium is actively removed from the body under the influence of caffeine, alcohol and tobacco. Therefore, if you have these habits, it is recommended to increase your intake of calcium-containing foods.
In addition to fluoride and calcium, iron and vitamin B12, which are found in sufficient quantities in meat products, as well as vitamin C, found in oranges and bell peppers, are essential for dental health.
Products hazardous to enamel
Bacteria in the oral cavity use sugar as a nutrient medium for active reproduction. The more often a person consumes sweet foods (sweets, chocolate, flour buns), the faster the carious process progresses. The agency recommends replacing traditional sweets with dried fruits, which contain essential microelements and destroy enamel more slowly.
Acidic substances pose a significant threat. Carbonated drinks and sour fruit juices have a demineralizing effect on enamel. Experts also advise avoiding sudden temperature changes when consuming food and drinks, as this can lead to the formation of microcracks in the hard tissues of the tooth.
