Our bodies require, and even directly ask for sometimes, certain types of nutrients and vitamins. We have all heard the cliché, “You are what you eat,” and there is some serious truth behind this saying. It is important that we realize that we need to eat for the health we want to obtain and to maintain. We have control over what we put into our bodies, and it is our responsibility to recognize the types of foods that will support the wonders our bodies perform everyday.
Our ten body systems (digestive, integumentary, circulatory, skeletal, muscular, endocrine, respiratory, nervous, urinary, and reproductive) depend upon specific types of fuel to perform at their best capacities. A well-composed meal could benefit all of your systems at once. This is nutrition at its best!
Gracious Body Breakfast (aka, Dr. Steve’s Tuesday Night Special)
*Cook eggs and layer tortilla, black beans, cheese, egg, tomato, avocado
3 cage-free eggs (cooked to preference)
Brown rice tortilla
Tomato
Avocado
Black beans
Sprinkle of cheese
Small sliced banana on the side
This is meal supports all ten of your body systems! This simple and healthy creation is rich in vitamin A, B, C, E, K, potassium, lipids, iron, fiber, protein, calcium, magnesium, copper, beta-carotene, and quite a bit more. Enjoy!
Where does the mouth fit into the systems equation? Your mouth and everything in it is the first part of your digestive system. Your mouth is the entrance and the golden gateway to all of your other systems. Oral health is vital to maintaining overall health. What do our mouths need to stay strong and smiling? Aside from proper hygiene (brushing, flossing, biannual cleanings and check-ups), our gums and teeth have their own nutritional needs.
Food that is high in calcium, such as cheese, milk, yogurt, leafy greens and almonds, are key for tooth health. Protein-rich foods, like meat, poultry, fish, and eggs are the best source of phosphorus, which helps protect and rebuild tooth enamel. Fruits and vegetables are often very aqueous and are high in fiber, which helps balance sugars and stimulate the production of saliva. Vitamin C, which can be found in kale, bell peppers, papaya, broccoli, and oranges, is critical for maintaining healthy gums and also for aiding in the healing process of the mouth.
While obviously there are quite a few foods that are beneficial to oral health, unfortunately, there are also quite a few that are harmful. Your overall health relies on making good choices when it comes to nutrition, but it is understandable that sometimes we slip or just need to indulge a little bit. Enjoying sweets, sodas, sticky foods, and empty calories snacks should be consumed on a very minimal basis.
Proper oral hygiene, regular teeth cleanings and check-ups, and a well-balanced and nutritious diet are your ticket to a healthy mouth. The more you are aware of what your body needs, the better suited you are to make the right choices. Parker Wellness is your easy access guide to functional nutrition!
Thank you for sharing a smile with us this week!