The foods you eat also have a direct impact on your oral health. For example, the high sugar content in sweets, such as cookies and candies, can contribute to the development of cavities. Crunchy foods, such as chips, often get stuck in your teeth, which can also lead to cavities.
Extra snacking during pregnancy puts you at an increased risk for tooth decay, especially if those snacks are full of sugar or carbs. Choose healthy snacks and foods to take extra care of your pearly whites, fend off pesky plaque and give your body the extra nutrients it's craving!
Pregnancy hormones can make some women more prone to gum problems like gingivitis. Luckily certain nutrient-dense foods help boost your body's immune system and reduce inflammation.
Dark green leafy vegetables, such as spinach and broccoli, are natural sources of folate, which helps prevent severe congenital disabilities of the brain and spine and spina bifida. And, since vegetables are high in fiber and water, they can help to clean your teeth
Citrus fruits, such as oranges, are a great source of folate, while cantaloupe and bananas contain vitamin B6, which can help reduce morning sickness. If you're looking for a hefty dose of vitamin B1 to boost your energy, grab some berries. Fruits are also great for your dental health because they, like vegetables, contain a lot of water and fiber.
Products, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt, are rich in calcium. Your baby needs calcium to grow strong bones and teeth, promoting heart, muscle, and nerve development. Calcium also helps strengthen your tooth enamel. If you don't get enough calcium from your diet, your body will pull it from your bones for your baby's development.
Iron helps your body make more blood and carry oxygen to your baby, so pregnant women need about twice the iron they usually require. Lean meats are also good sources of protein and phosphorous, which can help protect your tooth enamel.
Saltwater fish and seafood contain iodine, which is a mineral that many women don't get enough of during their pregnancy. Iodine plays an important role in brain development, and babies who don't get enough of this mineral may be born with brain damage or intellectual disabilities. During pregnancy, it's best to stick to fish with low mercury levels, such as salmon, shrimp, and catfish.
Beans, peas, lentils, and other legumes are good sources of B vitamins, folate, and protein. While protein is important throughout your pregnancy, babies have higher protein needs past the first trimester.
Carbohydrates found in whole grains, such as oatmeal, brown rice, and whole wheat bread are your body's main energy source during pregnancy. They also have many nutrients, including iron and fiber. Some breads and cereals are fortified with added nutrients, too, such as folate.
Gastric reflux from morning sickness can damage your tooth enamel with strong stomach acids. Manage the pH in your mouth and encourage saliva production to keep your mouth healthy with these helpful foods:
Eating a healthy diet during pregnancy is beneficial for both you and your baby's development. If you have any questions about what foods to eat when pregnant, talk to your OB-GYN or dental professional.
Oral Care Center articles are reviewed by an oral health medical professional. This information is for educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist, physician or other qualified healthcare provider.
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ORAL HEALTH QUIZ
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