5 Fun Foods for Fall That Are Good For Your Teeth, Too
Fun (And Healthy) Fall Foods
You know fall is near when there is a crisp chill in the air and the falling leaves crunch beneath your feet when you walk on them. For some, fall is their favorite season because of pumpkin spice and everything nice. Well, we’ve got some news for you—pumpkin in a fall food that is good for your teeth! Read on to learn more about Dental Care Associates of Buffalo’s favorite fall flavored treats that are good for your teeth.
1. Crunchy Apples
Apples are a fan-favorite fruit of the fall. They can be a refreshing snack that is a little sweet or a little sour, depending on your favorite variety. Because apples are so crunchy, they are considered nature’s toothbrushes. This is due to the amount of energy it takes to chew them while eating. Plus, the extra chewing promotes saliva production, which helps balance out the pH of your mouth, and the texture of the apple helps to swipe away bacteria on the teeth. Did we mention that apples are also packed with fiber and Vitamin C, which are both good for gum health?
Since the perfect time for apple picking is in the fall, why not take the family to an orchard for the day to pick your own apples? Not only is this a great way to bond with the family and create memories, but you’ll get a bunch of steps in walking around the orchard, and you’ll get to enjoy the outdoors too! Check out Deer Lake Orchard or Gilchrist Orchard to get your fill of local Minnesota apples.
Are you looking for some ideas to use all of the fresh apples you’ve picked? Check out this list of 22 apple recipes.
2. Pumpkin
Pumpkin is synonymous with fall, rising in popularity with the invention of the pumpkin spice latte craze. But, did you know that pumpkin is rich in Vitamin A, which supports strong enamel?
Pumpkin is a versatile vegetable, and it can be used in soups, smoothies, and more. Pumpkin can be roasted, blended, and the seeds are also edible.
If you want to source your pumpkins locally, and spend a few fun hours at the pumpkin patch with your family, stop by Fall Harvest Orchard or Pearson Family Farms, both located near Buffalo, Minnesota.
3. Nuts
Nuts, like walnuts, pecans, and almonds, are great healthy snack foods. Many nuts are high in calcium and protein, which is great for fortifying and strengthening teeth and bones. Nuts make a great snack because they are portable, sugar-free, and satisfying.
If you’re looking for a great nut-friendly snack, there is nothing like homemade trail mix. Be sure to include your favorite nuts and dried fruits to help balance out this snack. This is an easy one to make on a whim, and it is simple enough that your children can help with the creation of their own trail mix!
4. Cheese and Yogurt
No list would be complete without some form of dairy. Dairy products are high in calcium and phosphorus, which help support enamel. Nonfat dairy choices also help balance the acidity in the mouth, which is important. By neutralizing acid, your mouth pH stays in better balance, which means there is a lower chance of tooth erosion due to high acidity in the mouth.
A perfect calcium-rich snack is a smoothie. There are thousands of combinations, and you’ll never run out of ones to try. Many smoothies can be made by adding yogurt, fruit, veggies, and an extra flavor—for instance, you can use Greek yogurt, pumpkin, and spices like nutmeg and cinnamon for a great pumpkin spice smoothie to quell those pumpkin-spice-latte cravings.
For a great cheese snack, look at this homemade cheese cracker recipe that calls for cheese and Greek yogurt, along with a couple other pantry staples. You can make healthy, baked versions of your favorite cheese and crackers at home, and your kids can get involved too.
5. Carrots and Sweet Potatoes
What is more fall than orange vegetables? Carrots and sweet potatoes are popular fall vegetables, and both are loaded with Vitamin A, which helps promote gum health. The crunchy texture of these raw vegetables also helps clean teeth naturally as you chew.
If you’re looking for a new healthy side dish to serve with dinner, look no further than roasted sweet potatoes and carrots. If you want a soup to help warm you up on a cool, crisp fall day, check out this soup that features carrots and sweet potatoes paired with ginger.
Visit Dental Care Associates of Buffalo today!
Don’t let the fall weather make you forget about your dental health! Pair your new favorite fall food snacks with a visit to Dental Care Associates of Buffalo. Preventive dental care is part of a healthy dental care routine, so if you haven’t seen us in a while, give us a call today to schedule your appointment.
