Holiday Treats
That Are Good for Your Teeth T he holiday season is upon us, and everywhere you look, delicious food is on the menu. However, it’s not just your waistline that could suffer from overindulgence. Hard candies and carbonated beverages aren’t exactly the top items on your teeth’s wish list. Even the classic eggnog can do a number on your smile. Luckily, some seasonal treats are actually good for your teeth. If you’re looking for the best snacks of the holidays, here are some items you can put on the “nice” list.
NUTS We don’t just mean chestnuts roasting on an open fire. Packed with magnesium and iron, holiday favorites like almonds and walnuts provide the nutrients your body needs. Plus, the extra dose of calcium will help keep your teeth strong. PEPPERMINT Peppermint candy canes are horrible for your teeth. If you bite down on hard candy, you risk chipping a tooth, but if you suck on them, you expose your teeth to the sugar for a lot longer. That said, you don’t have to ditch the minty goodness completely. In fact, a little peppermint is actually good for you. A little low-sugar peppermint tea will freshen your breath,
help with indigestion, and take the stress out of the busy holiday season.
CHEESE Cheese is antibacterial and has a low pH level, which means eating a few slices can help reduce the acidity of your mouth. And, much like nuts, the extra calcium in cheese is great for your teeth. Now, this isn’t the green light to polish off Aunt Sue’s entire holiday cheese ball. But when you pass the cheese plate at your next New Year’s party, feel free to grab an extra slice of cheddar. ’Tis the season for good eating. While many of your holiday favorites might make your dentist’s “naughty” list, others (like the ones above) can help ensure your teeth are in good shape for the new year.
1. In a large bowl, whisk together wine and cornstarch. 2. Chop cheese slices into small, uniform pieces. 3. Rub clove of garlic all over the • ¾ cup dry white wine • 1 tablespoon cornstarch • 1 (8-ounce) package sliced Swiss cheese DIRECTIONS Scrambling to find something for the holiday potluck? This fondue is sure to impress! Easy Holiday Party Cheese Fondue INGREDIENTS
• 1 clove garlic • Salt to taste • Foods to dip (apple slices, bread cubes, roasted vegetables, etc.)
some cheese and slowly whisk. When nearly smooth, add more cheese and whisk gently. Repeat until all cheese is melted. If mixture seems too tight, add 1 tablespoon wine.
sides and bottom of a heavy- bottomed pot, then discard.
5. Season with salt and serve immediately. Keep pot on low heat to keep the fondue dippable.
4. Heat wine mixture over
medium-low heat in the pot until thick and bubbling. Add
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Recipe inspired by PinchofYum.com
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