Mediterranean diet and dental health: essential things to know about a popular cuisine

We all have heard wonderful things about the Mediterranean diet and how beneficial it can be for your overall health and well being. Its staple ingredients include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and heart-healthy fats, and they all contribute to acuisine that is as nutritious as it is tasty. It’s been shown to help manage weight and lower the risk of many chronic conditions, including diabetes.

But what about dental health?  What should we know about its possible impact on the condition of teeth? – Let’s have a closer look.  

the good: rich in teeth-friendly vitamins and minerals

One of the key aspects of the Mediterranean diet that contributes to dental health is its emphasis onconsuming a variety of fruits and vegetables. These foods are not only rich in essential vitamins and minerals but also high in fiber, which promotes saliva production and aids in the removal of food particles from the teeth. Moreover,the vitamins and minerals found in fruits and vegetables, such as vitamin C and calcium, play a vital role in maintaining healthy teeth and gums.

Another significant componentof the Mediterranean diet that benefits dental health is the consumption of dairy products, such as yogurt and cheese.  

These foods are excellent sources of calcium, a mineral crucial for strong teeth and bones. Calcium helps protect tooth enamel, the outer layer of the teeth, and prevent tooth decay. Including dairy products in the diet ensures an adequate intake of calcium, which contributes to overall dental health.

some things to watch out for

However, it is important to note that the Mediterranean diet, like any other dietary pattern, can also include foods and beverages that may have negative effects on dental health.

For instance, the consumption of red wine, a staple of the Mediterranean diet, can lead to tooth staining.The pigments in red wine, known as chromogens, can adhere to the enamel and cause discoloration over time. Therefore, it is advisable to practice moderation when consuming red wine and maintain good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing regularly, to minimize the risk of staining.

Furthermore, some traditional Mediterranean dishes may contain ingredients that are high in sugar or acidicin nature, which can contribute to tooth decay and enamel erosion. For instance, baklava, a popular dessert that is especially wide spread in Turkey, Greece, and the Middle East, is made with layers of filo pastry, nuts, and honey, all of which are high in sugar. (Excessive consumption of sugary food scan lead to the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth, which produce acids that attack the tooth enamel and cause cavities). Similarly, dishes that incorporate acidic ingredients like lemon juice or vinegar can erode the ename lover time, making the teeth more susceptible to decay.

THE VERDICT

So, what will be the verdict? There’s no doubt that overall, the Mediterranean diet offers a range of potential benefits for dental health. The wide use of fruits and vegetables, as well as dairy products for calcium in take, can be a positive factor in strengthening and protecting your teeth.  

As for potential negatives, they are relatively minor and nothing that cannot be addressed by practicing moderation by paying attention to good hygiene routines.  

DID YOU KNOW?

• The Mediterranean Diet has been recognized by UNESCO as an “Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.”
• According to Harvard University’s School of Public Health, “research supports the use of the Mediterranean diet as a healthy eating pattern for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, increasing lifespan, and healthy aging.”
• Forthe seventh consecutive year, the Mediterranean diet came on top in the annual best diet rankings by U.S. News & World Report.  

CHECK THIS OUT

For additional details about the benefits of the Mediterranean diet -- and the role it plays in Spain’s lifestyle – read this fascinating article.

Also, if you'd like to learn more about the Costa del Sol, Spain's wonderfully sundrenched and culturally rich Mediterranean coast, visit www.bestspainliving.com.