Des aliments qui préviennent la carie

Diet and lifestyle are the foundations of optimal physical and mental health. But health with a capital "S" means taking care of a vital little organ that we sometimes tend to neglect: the mouth.

But what does food have to do with the condition of the oral cavity and, above all, with the development of tooth decay?

Quite a lot, in fact. And that's what we'll discover together in the following paragraphs.

The relationship between food and mouth

From the outset, you should know that the oral cavity is home to a vast microbiota. Some bacteria are healthy, while others are more vile. As soon as the pH of the mouth fluctuates, these populations change.

Imbalance can come from a variety of sources, but diet is the most common. That's why it's so important to choose foods that don't encourage the growth of bacteria responsible for cavities or other oral pathologies.

As a preventive measure, you should therefore opt for food that is neither too acidic nor too sweet.

Dairy products are less acidic

Milk and cheese, especially firm cheeses, are basic anti-caries foods. Firstly, their richness in calcium, vitamin D and other minerals helps remineralize enamel. What's more, a number of reviews have concluded that milk has very little cariogenic potential, since lactose is not as acidic as other sugars, and overall has some caries-defending potential. ^[1]Ownership is transferred to its by-products, such as cheese.

In short, the casein and lipids these foods contain make them excellent protectors, especially when eaten at the end of a meal.^[2]

The same applies to no-sugar-added enriched vegetable drinks and yoghurt, especially those rich in probiotics. ^[3]

Flavonoids inhibit cariogenic bacteria

Flavonoids are known to have antibacterial properties. Research has shown that they can effectively block the proliferation of certain cavity-causing bacteria.^[4]

There are many types of flavonoids, and they can be found in a variety of foods. However, green tea is undeniably the one with the most benefits for oral and general health.^[5]Apples, grape seeds, cranberries and even cocoa contain them.

Nuts and seeds

Rich in lipids and proteins, this food group is not cariogenic. They make excellent snacks, accompanied by fruit, raw vegetables or cheese. They also contain a multitude of nutrients... which are good for your health. As long as you opt for the plain version!

Eating well to avoid tooth decay

To prevent oral pathologies, including cavities, diet must always be in the spotlight.

Stay away from pre-cooked meals and processed foods cooked at high temperatures (pastries, candy bars, crackers, cookies, candies).
Read the list of ingredients, make sure it's as short as possible
Avoid lists containing sugar and sugar derivatives
Products that stick to the teeth or are nibbled on should be eaten sparingly

The ideal is to consume food in its purest, most natural form. Animal or vegetable proteins (poultry, fish, eggs, tofu), fruit, vegetables, homemade muffins made with whole-wheat flour, water flavored with herbs - these are the foods to turn to.