Beauty and health start with your teeth.

Teeth are an indispensable part of our body, and their condition directly affects everyone's health. As the saying goes, "Food is the first necessity of the people, and teeth come before food." Developing healthy eating habits is crucial for maintaining oral health, so we must strive to protect our teeth and prevent bacterial invasion. To keep teeth healthy, a balanced diet is necessary. A balanced diet includes a variety of foods, with grains as the main staple, and attention to the combination of whole and refined grains. Below are several foods that are beneficial for dental health. Cheese. Cheese is rich in calcium, and regular consumption helps strengthen and rebuild enamel, making teeth stronger. As cheese contains a considerable amount of energy, overweight and obese individuals should be mindful of their portion size. Celery. It is rich in dietary fiber. Eating it raw can enhance the strength of teeth, clean them, and stimulate saliva secretion, achieving a natural benefit for dental health. Mushrooms. The lentinan in mushrooms can inhibit the formation of dental plaque by bacteria in the mouth. Mushrooms have a unique flavor and are low in energy, making them delicious in soups, stir-fries, or cold salads. Eating various types of mushrooms 2-3 times a week is a simple and effective way to maintain healthy teeth. Water. Drinking enough water keeps gums moist and stimulates saliva secretion. Drinking water after meals helps wash away food residue from the mouth, preventing bacteria from getting nutrients and causing damage to teeth. Onion. Fresh, raw onions are the most effective. The sulfur compounds in onions are powerful antibacterial agents that can kill various bacteria, including Streptococcus mutans, which causes cavities. You can add a few slices of fresh onion to a salad; or include some raw onion in a burger or sandwich. It is recommended to eat half a raw onion daily.

This article is excerpted from "Dr. Ma Talks About Nutrition" by Ma Guansheng, authorized by Phoenix Hanzhang Books. Reproduction is strictly prohibited.

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