Diet may play an important role in relieving gum pain, healing gums, and preventing gum disease. Foods high in vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, folate (folic acid), flavonoids, calcium, and insoluble fiber are beneficial for gum care. Vitamin C and flavonoids act synergistically in their Antioxidant power and are most effective when they are consumed together. Studies have shown that eating large amounts of a variety of fruits, especially citrus fruits, is linked to less severe gum disease. Certain "cariostatic" foods that help prevent cavities also enhance gum health because they help reduce plaque build-up. These foods include cheese, nuts, popcorn, and vegetables. Fermentable carbohydrates, such as candy, cookies, pastries, pretzels, chips, fruit, and starchy foods like breads and cereals, contribute to plaque build-up and may diminish gum health. Instead of eliminating fruit and cereals, which provide a wealth of nutrients and phytochemicals, pair cariostatic foods with fermentable carbohydrates, at the same time be sure to brush and floss frequently. Snacking on crunchy, fibrous foods, such as a carrot or celery stick, stimulates the gums.
Mega-Recipes
We believe that it's possible to manage and/or improve certain conditions through what you eat. When we create "Mega-Recipes" for an ailment, we strive to include the maximum number of the nutrients that are shown to have benefit for that ailment. We also expect the Mega-Recipe to contain at least 25% of recommended intakes for those nutrients. See the list of recipes that have met our criteria for this ailment.
calcium
Calcium is important for gum care because it helps maintain tooth structure.
Leading Food Sources of calcium: Broccoli, Bok choy, Milk, Amaranth, Soybeans, Tofu, Cheese, fresh, Beans, dried, Kale, Salmon, Yogurt
fiber, insoluble
Fiber helps to cleanse the teeth, similar to a dog's bone or biscuit.
Leading Food Sources of fiber, insoluble: Figs, Peas, fresh, Beans, dried, Rice, brown, Wheat, Raisins & Currants, Prunes
flavonoids
Flavonoids are powerful antioxidants and may enhance immunity, helping to keep gum-attacking bacteria in check.
Leading Food Sources of flavonoids: Broccoli, Grapefruit, white, Apples, Oranges, Pomegranates, Limes, Chocolate, Soybeans, Lemons, Tomatoes, Onions, Carrots, Blueberries
folic acid
Foods rich in folic acid may promote faster gum healing and help reduce gum Inflammation and bleeding.
Leading Food Sources of folic acid: Asparagus, Broccoli, Avocados, Beans, dried, Chick-peas, Soybeans, Lentils, Oranges, Peas, fresh, Turkey, Cabbage, Savoy, Bok choy, Spinach, Brussels sprouts, Beets
vitamin C
When taken daily, vitamin C protects gum tissue against cell damage and speeds healing. Brushing with vitamin C powder can minimize gum inflammation and bleeding.
Leading Food Sources of vitamin C: Cabbage, red, Tangerines & other mandarins, Peppers, bell, red, Oranges, Strawberries, Kiwi fruit, Potatoes
vitamin E
The antioxidant properties of vitamin E may enhance healing and protect gum tissue against cell damage.
Leading Food Sources of vitamin E: Broccoli, Sunflower seeds, Brazil nuts, Avocados, Almonds, Peanuts, Mangoes
