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December's the
month when many people start thinking about how to live
better in 2007. We vow to lose 20 pounds, quit smoking
and train for the New York Marathon... just as soon as
the holidays are over.
Did you know the
number one New Year's resolution is to eat healthier?
Healthy eating is good for your body and your oral
health.
Here's some
"food" for thought:
- Fruits,
vegetables, legumes and nuts contain antioxidants and
other nutrients, which may fight bacteria harmful to
teeth and gums.
- Dairy
products such as low-fat or nonfat cheese and nonfat
yogurt contain calcium and phosphorus, which help
teeth.
- Raw
vegetables and fruit act as "nature's toothbrushes" by
flushing food particles out of the mouth.
- A healthy
diet provides your body with needed nutrients, which
may help you resist gum disease and other infections.
The American
Dental Association recommends eating a balanced diet
with foods from each of the major food groups:
- Breads,
cereals and other grain products
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Meat,
poultry and fish
- Milk, cheese
and yogurt
Here's how to
keep your healthy eating resolution all year long:
- Create a
game plan. How will you incorporate healthier
foods into your daily routine? Will you bring your
lunch to work? Buy new recipe books? Write down what
you want to achieve and how you'll do it.
- Break
your plan into bite-size chunks. Celebrate small
milestones. Keep track of your progress, and give
yourself healthy rewards, like a massage, a fancy
electric toothbrush, or a new pair of walking shoes.
- Ask
friends to join you. The more the merrier. Plus,
you'll give each other support, so you'll be more
likely to stick with your resolution.
- Keep a
journal. This helps you focus on what you want to
accomplish, and remind you what you've achieved.
Here's to you
turning today's resolution into tomorrow's success! |
