There are more options than ever to shed unwanted body fat using trending diets that claim to help you achieve your weight loss goals without worrying about many negative side effects. Unfortunately, many fad diets aren’t just unhealthy for your body, they can also leave a lasting mark on your smile. Here are 3 common fad diets your dentist in Melbourne recommends you avoid to protect your oral health.
1. Juice Cleanses
All-juice diets have been popular for decades. They consist of drinking fruit and vegetable juices to detoxify the digestive system. Although many people believe juice diets are healthy, you won’t be receiving the fiber and nutrients your body needs to function correctly. Not to mention, juices also contain high levels of acid and sugar, which can damage your teeth. You can experience permanent enamel loss, increasing your risk of cavities, tooth sensitivity, and discoloration.
2. Raw Food Diets
Raw food diets are common because you still receive all the nutrients you need while skipping unhealthy chemicals and preservatives. Unfortunately, many foods included in the diets are various types of fruit, nuts, and seeds, which are bad for your smile. The sugars found in the fruit can cause enamel erosion and an increased risk of tooth decay. Seeds can get trapped between your teeth, allowing bacteria to accumulate in your mouth, which can lead to infections and bad breath. Although nuts are healthy, they can increase the likeliness of a fractured tooth.
3. Small Meals
Cutting back on proportion sizes is often recommended with weight loss. Some fad diets suggest eating 6 to 8 small meals per day. While this may seem logical, your teeth are vulnerable to damage for as long as an hour after you eat. Grazing throughout the day prolongs their vulnerability, which can lead to worn enamel, even if you’re eating healthy snacks.
Achieve a Healthy Mouth and Body
If you’re interested in losing weight, it’s best to avoid trending diets to reach your goals without harming your smile. Instead, make changes to your lifestyle by eating a balanced diet that’s limited in sugars and starches. When combined with a regular exercise routine, you can improve your general wellness to maintain your results long-term with a commitment to your new way of life.
Besides improving your fitness and diet, don’t forget to care for your smile. Research shows your oral and general health are intertwined. Therefore, supporting your dental health will further help you reach your goals. Your dentist recommends brushing twice a day, flossing every night, and having a cleaning and checkup every 6 months. The right oral hygiene habits at home and visiting your dentist regularly will help you look and feel your best.
About Dr. Beverly Rose
Dr. Rose provides superior dental care at Exceptional Dentistry. Besides earning her dental degree from the University of Florida College of Dentistry, she has also completed additional training at the prestigious Las Vegas Institute. She can help her patients reach optimal oral health. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.