A healthy diet that is focused on improving arthritis not only improves specific symptoms of arthritis but also helps in the overall wellbeing of the patient. This diet helps a person to reduce weight, reduce blood pressure, and reduce cholesterol levels. They are then at lesser risk of being affected by many cardiovascular diseases and stroke. Including food items that are a rich source of Calcium and Vitamin D can help repair damage to the bone and strengthen the muscles and tissues around the affected joint. Here are some of the foods that can help you manage arthritis much better and reduce pain.
Fish
Fish is a great source of Omega-3 fatty acids which have been unanimously accepted and recommended as food that reduces inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids are potent fighters that reduce swelling within the body. Include 3 to 6 servings of fish; particularly, salmon, tuna, sardines, and mackerel every week. Choose smaller fish rather than the larger ones as they are more likely to have mercury.
Vegetables
A plant-based diet is the most widely recommended change for persons with arthritis. Make them the centerpiece of your diet. Vegetables are full of antioxidants and nutrients. Green yellow and orange – if you see these colors – just pick them up. Cook them, add them to rice, curries, and salads. Steam and eat with mild seasoning. Cook them to suit your palette – just ensure that the nutrients are not lost by over boiling or deep frying. Broccoli, kale, spinach, bok choy, celery, sweet potatoes, squash, carrots, red and green peppers, onions, garlic, leeks and shallots, and olives are the vegetables that must be part of your diet in one form or the other.
Fruits
Fruits with deep colors contain components and acids that can fight the free radicals which attack the body’s immune system. One can opt for seasonal fruits and those which are grown locally. Five to six servings of fruits daily is ideal. Tart cherries, strawberries, red raspberries, avocado, watermelon, and grapes should be included in your diet regularly.
Whole grains
Including 3 to 6 ounces of whole-grain in some form or other can be beneficial. Replace white bread with whole-grain bread and include more whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, Farro, and Buckwheat in your diet. Phase out white rice from your diet. These grains can be had as is or their flour can be used to make bread, tortillas, porridge, and soups.
Green tea
Two glasses of either cold or hot green tea per day reduces the severity of the pain caused by arthritis. Green tea is a storehouse of antioxidants and can benefit arthritis caused by inflammation or by auto-immune issues. There are decaffeinated options too for those who have been advised to stay off caffeine.
Nuts and seeds
Many nuts contain high levels of alpha-linolenic acid which are Omega-3 fatty acids. Along with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals like magnesium and Vitamin E, they help in controlling inflammation. They also provide the body’s requirement of fiber. Walnuts, Peanuts, Almonds, Pistachios, Flax seeds, and Chia seeds are recommended for persons with arthritis. The nuts can be eaten as a snack or used as garnishes for meat dishes. Chia seeds and almond meals can be used in desserts. Peanuts can be added in salads. Those with allergies should exercise caution while eating nuts.
Oils
Oils are a combination of fatty acids. The proportion of the acids determines whether the oil is healthy or not. People with arthritis are at higher risk for cardiovascular diseases and stroke and they should avoid oils that are rich in saturated fats. Unsaturated fats reduce cholesterol and, thereby, help in preventing heart disease. Oils with higher boiling points should be used so that the nutrients in the oil are not destroying while cooking. Keeping these in mind oils from olives, coconut, grape seed, walnut, avocado, and canola should be used more often as they all have proven anti-inflammatory properties. You can use them to fry your food, use as drizzles for salads and also in marinades and replacement for butter in baking. Walnut oil can be used without heating.
There are certain foods that can not only stagnate any chance of improvement but also make matters worse. It is critical that your diet does not comprise foods that make arthritis an issue bigger than it already is. Examples of such foods are
Sugar
Processed sugar contains cytokines, which can cause inflammation. Avoiding sugar is difficult as it is added in almost all forms of packaged or processed food. Giving up tempting desserts needs strong will and practice.
Saturated fats
They trigger inflammation in fat tissues that worsens arthritis symptoms. This is present in red meat, dairy, pasta, and desserts. Stay away from them as much as possible.
Trans fats and omega-6 fatty acids
They are known to trigger systemic inflammation and are found in many food items that are all around us. Fried, junk, frozen, desserts, cookies and packaged food are full of trans fats. If not, they should look for information and avoid any food that has trans-fat or hydrogenated oils.
Refined carbs
Found in bread and cereals and products made of white flour these carbs should be avoided as they have a high glycemic index which stimulates inflammation.
Gluten and casein
Gluten sensitivity is the main cause of celiac disease. Gluten is found in wheat and barley and casein is found in dairy products and should be avoided
Alcohol
Excessive alcohol damages the functioning of the liver which in turn leads to inflammation and hence should be avoided.
Many people switch to sugar-free gum from the regular variety, thinking it has no harmful health effects. Some do so because of ongoing health complications like diabetes. While it is true that chewing sugar-free gum may have specific benefits and could help one improve their overall well-being, it also has significant downsides. Below are a few important things one should know before heading to the store and buying a pack.
Ingredients in sugar-free gum
Many brands manufacture sugar-free gum, each using different ingredients to give their product a distinct taste and set it apart. While they do not use sugar, they use substitutes that mimic the taste of sugar. Some of these substitutes are artificial sweeteners, while others are derived from natural sources. Let’s look at a few examples:
Besides the above, sugar-free gum may contain chemical and natural ingredients that help provide texture, long-lasting taste, and chewiness. The ingredients usually differ with each brand.
Benefits of sugar-free gum
Here are three probable benefits one might enjoy from chewing sugar-free gum instead of the regular type:
Reduced tooth decay
Studies show that chewing sugar-free gum for a short while after meals may help reduce tooth decay. This is perhaps because chewing causes the mouth to produce more saliva, which washes away microscopic food particles that remain behind and fuel bacteria. Experts reveal that chewing sugar-free gum may also prevent or reduce plaque formation.
Stronger tooth enamel and reduced sensitivity
Since salvia has phosphate and calcium content, it could strengthen tooth enamel. Furthermore, chewing sugar-free gum could help curb teeth sensitivity, which often results from in-office tooth whitening procedures.
Improved memory
Studies indicate that chewing gum, including sugar-free varieties, while performing tasks could improve various aspects of brain function, such as memory, alertness, decision-making, and understanding. Experts also suggest those who chew gum for longer may benefit from reduced signs of stress, anxiety, and depression. While the exact cause of these benefits is yet to be determined, studies point toward better blood flow to the brain caused by chewing.
Besides providing the benefits listed above, sugar-free chewing gum can help avoid conditions like dry mouth (xerostomia). However, one should chew gum as a remedy only if they receive the go-ahead from their healthcare provider.
Disadvantages
Any product consumed in excess may have adverse effects on the body, including sugar-free gum. Chewing it may cause:
Headaches and allergies
Sugar-free gum contains aspartame, a highly debated ingredient among experts. While used as an alternative to sugar, aspartame contains a chemical carcinogen that could increase the risk of headaches. Some may develop hives on the body or suffer from gastrointestinal or respiratory issues if allergic to the ingredient. Therefore, one should speak to an expert before chewing sugar-free gum that contains aspartame.
Gastrointestinal problems
Some manufacturers use sorbitol in their sugar-free gum. When a person consumes too much of the ingredient, it may lead to gastrointestinal symptoms like abdominal cramps, bloating, and gas. Too much sorbitol may also trigger diarrhea in some people.
Jaw disorders
Chewing gum all the time, including sugar-free options, could cause the jaw muscles to tighten. As a result, one may experience jaw pain. Chewing gum regularly has also been associated with increased temporomandibular joint pain (TMJ). Those with this disorder may experience chronic symptoms like soreness, discomfort, and headaches.
Dental device damage
Chewing gum of any kind may have adverse effects on dental devices. The product could damage implants, which could hamper one’s oral health and also be quite expensive to fix.
Besides increasing the risk of the problems listed above, sugar-free chewing gum can lead to cancerous developments in the body and an unusual increase in appetite. People with a rare hereditary disorder called phenylketonuria are especially advised to limit their consumption of phenylalanine (a component of aspartame) as their bodies cannot metabolize it.
Tips to reduce gum-related problems
Learning about the benefits and downsides of sugar-free gum can help one make better decisions for their well-being. Here are a few tips to reduce the risk of health problems from chewing gum:
Following these guidelines will help minimize the harmful effects of chewing gum. One should speak to a health expert if they have any questions regarding any ingredient used in the product.
Tooth enamel is the strong outer layer that protects the teeth from damage and decay. Over time, the enamel gets damaged by factors such as poor oral hygiene, acidic foods, and tooth erosion. Enamel repair is a vital process that restores this outer layer’s strength and integrity. It is crucial for individuals to understand the details of enamel repair, its importance, and treatment options, and be aware of practical tips for healthy enamel.
The significance of enamel repair
Enamel repair is vital for maintaining dental health and preventing tooth damage. Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, but it can deteriorate from repeated acid attacks by bacteria, plaque, and food habits. When the enamel wears away or gets damaged, the underlying dentin becomes exposed, causing tooth sensitivity, pain, and an increased risk of cavities.
Enamel restoration is crucial for preserving the teeth’s structural integrity and bypassing the need for more invasive dental treatments. Enamel repair protects the teeth from acid erosion, strengthens the enamel surface, and reduces tooth sensitivity. When enamel damage is promptly addressed, individuals can maintain healthy teeth and prevent the onset of oral health complications.
Understanding enamel demineralization
The initial stage of enamel damage is termed enamel demineralization and it occurs when acids dissolve the enamel’s mineral content. This is often triggered by the consumption of acidic foods and beverages, poor oral hygiene, and certain health conditions. Demineralization weakens the enamel, making it vulnerable to further damage.
Various preventive measures can be adopted to mitigate enamel demineralization. For one, regular brushing and flossing destroy plaque and bacteria, reducing acid production. The use of fluoride toothpaste and mouth rinses can also support enamel remineralization by replenishing the lost minerals. Dentists may also recommend dental sealants or thin protective coatings applied to the teeth, which thwart acid attacks.
Enamel repair treatment options
When enamel damage advances beyond the demineralization stage, enamel repair treatment is the only viable option. The treatment choice depends on the extent of the damage and an individual’s specific needs. Some common enamel repair options include:
Dental bonding
This procedure involves applying a tooth-colored resin material to the damaged enamel, which is then shaped and polished to match the natural tooth. Dental bonding helps restore the appearance and functionality of the tooth while protecting it from further damage.
Dental veneers
These are thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin that are bonded to the teeth’s front surface. They can be used to repair enamel damage, correct tooth discoloration, and enhance an individual’s overall appearance when they smile.
Dental crowns
These may be recommended when the enamel damage or decay is extensive. Crowns are tooth-shaped caps that cover the entire visible portion of the teeth, and help restore their strength, shape, and appearance.
Enamel microabrasion
This minimally invasive procedure involves the removal of a thin layer of enamel using an abrasive substance. Enamel microabrasion is commonly used to treat superficial enamel stains and defects, restoring the teeth’s natural appearance.
Remineralization treatments
Remineralizing agents such as fluoride varnishes and gels can be applied to the teeth to enhance the remineralization process and strengthen the enamel.
Things to remember
Enamel repair is a vital aspect for maintaining optimal dental health. By understanding the significance of enamel repair and exploring the treatment options available, individuals can take proactive steps to address enamel damage and preserve their oral well-being.
Remember, practicing good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, combined with routine dental check-ups, is essential for preventing enamel damage and maintaining a healthy smile. Additionally, adopting a tooth-friendly meal plan, reducing the consumption of acidic foods and beverages, and avoiding harmful habits such as teeth grinding can significantly contribute to enamel preservation.
Besides professional treatment, you can also adopt certain lifestyle practices that can aid in enamel repair. Avoiding excessive consumption of sugary and acidic foods and beverages, limiting the intake of carbonated drinks, and using a straw when consuming acidic beverages can help minimize enamel erosion.
If you suspect enamel damage or experience tooth sensitivity, promptly consult a dental professional. They will assess your condition, recommend appropriate treatment options, and guide you on preventive measures to protect your enamel.
Taking proactive steps to repair enamel damage enhances the strength and appearance of your teeth, besides safeguarding them from impending oral health issues. Enamel repair is an investment for your long-term dental health and oral well-being.
Furthermore, incorporating foods rich in calcium, including dairy products and leafy greens, can provide essential nutrients for remineralizing and strengthening the enamel. Drinking fluoridated water or using fluoride supplements as recommended by your dental professional can also contribute to enamel repair.
Conclusion
Protecting tooth enamel is a lifelong commitment that pays off in terms of improved dental health and a brighter, more confident smile. Hence, take charge of your oral health, embrace enamel repair, and let your smile shine with vitality and beauty! Your teeth deserve the best care to ensure a lifetime of dental well-being.