What do beta-carotene, lutein, lycopene, selenium, vitamin A, C, and E all have in common? They are all antioxidants. Antioxidants play an important role in helping your body fight diseases and infections. They stop or reduce the damage to your cells caused by free radicals. Unfortunately, the oxygen that we need to survive also causes oxidation, which alters our body chemicals and in turn free radicals are produced. Free radicals also come from environmental factors such as pollution and cigarette smoke, among many other things. Our best bet is to ensure that our bodies are receiving a sufficient amount of antioxidants. This can be done through our diet and supplements, which I will discuss a little bit later.
How do antioxidants relate to oral health?
Your mouth is a delicate place and a major gateway to the rest of your internal systems. Your saliva contains a great deal of antioxidants, which help fight bacteria and other noxious substances. The antioxidants found in your saliva also help reduce inflammation-causing proteins and aid in the healing process.
What are some possible oral health consequences of an antioxidant deficiency?
Studies have shown that an insufficient level of salivary antioxidants can be linked to periodontal disease, oral cancer and oral cavities.
*For more in-depth and research-based information on antioxidants in the saliva and oral health, visit this informative dental website that I came across: www.dentalantioxidants.com
Where are antioxidants found, and how can we make sure we get enough of them?
A primary player in our general health and overall wellbeing relates to diet. Antioxidants are found in quite a few fruits and vegetables, as well as some other foods, including nuts, legumes, and animal products. An easy way to ensure that you are consuming an antioxidant-rich diet on a daily basis is to simply eat your way over the rainbow. Let’s take a look at some rainbow-colored options!
RED: strawberries, raspberries, tomatoes, pomegranates, cranberries, apples, watermelon, and grapefruit
ORANGE: carrots, cantaloupe, peaches, sweet potatoes, apricots, oranges, pumpkins, and papayas
YELLOW: mango, bell peppers, corn, squash, peanuts, eggs, and avocado
GREEN: kale, kiwi, spinach, peas, soybean, broccoli, brussel sprouts, and green tea
BLUE: Blueberries and blackberries
PURPLE: Grapes, eggplant, purple cabbage, and red wine
WHITE-ish: whole grains, almonds, sesame seeds, cauliflower, bran, barley, sunflower seeds, onion, and garlic
What are some other great benefits to eating an antioxidant sufficient diet?
Antioxidants are our body’s super defenders! Not only do they help us maintain our oral health, but they also strengthen our immune system, slow down the aging process, and decrease the risk of heart disease, diabetes, certain types of cancer, and neurological disorders.
Are you having a hard time eating the rainbow?
If you find it hard to eat a wide variety of fruits and vegetables each day, try starting small—add leafy greens to your breakfast smoothie or swap processed snacks for nuts or fresh berries.
Still not sure where to start? At Parker Dentistry, we’re happy to guide you on the connection between your diet and your oral health. Our team believes in whole-body wellness, and that includes helping you build habits that protect your smile from the inside out.
Final Thoughts
Your diet is a powerful tool in maintaining both oral and overall health. By increasing your intake of antioxidant-rich foods, you’re giving your gums, teeth, and entire body the nutrients needed to defend against disease and inflammation.
Ready to Improve Your Oral Health?
Schedule a visit with Parker Dentistry today. We’ll support you in every step of your wellness journey—from customized dental care to tips on how nutrition impacts your smile.
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