Pumpkin - Good for More than Pie!
posted: Oct. 19, 2019.
It’s the season of Pumpkins! Everywhere you look, it’s pumpkin this and pumpkin spice that. From lattes to pies, candles to fudge, it seems pumpkin has been added to everything. But, maybe this isn’t such a bad thing. Did you know that pumpkin is good for your oral health? Be honest. You never even thought about it. Well, that’s what your favorite Anderson pediatric dentist is here for! We’re here to tell you to go ahead and embrace the pumpkin!
Pumpkin is high in vitamins and minerals that help keep your mouth, teeth, and gums healthy.
Iron: Pumpkin seeds contain iron, which benefits your tongue and gums and also prevents anemia.
Magnesium: Works with calcium to strengthen your bones and teeth and strengthen your enamel.
Vitamin A: Promotes healing and helps with maintaining gums. It also aids in the flow of saliva, helping to keep your teeth clean.
Zinc: helps replenish the lining of the gums, strengthens teeth and bones, and boosts gum health.
Vitamin C: Helps fortify your immune system, which helps your body fight off infection and inflammation in your gums.
Fiber: Helps control blood sugar levels, aids in digestion and helps with weight loss and/or maintenance.
Beta Carotene: Your body naturally turns the beta carotene in pumpkin into Vitamin A, which helps heal and maintain your gums.
Potassium: Helps improve bone mineral density and works with magnesium to prevent blood from becoming too acidic and leaching calcium from your bones and teeth.
Pumpkin is a nutritionally dense, yet calorically light food. With all its benefits, this Anderson kids dentist encourages you to sneak it into any food or drink you can! From pumpkin bread to pumpkin pancakes, pumpkin curry to roasted pumpkin seeds, let this fall favorite give your body and mouth a boost this season! Just remember, while pumpkin is healthy, the nutritious benefits will be lost if it’s only eaten in high fat and sugary treats (cheesecake, sweetened coffees, etc.)
Anderson Pediatric Dentistry strives to help you and your child achieve a healthy smile for life. We pride ourselves on being your go-to resource for your pediatric dental needs. If you are looking for a dental home for your child in Anderson, SC or the Upstate area, give us a call at 864-760-1440. Let us give you Something to Smile About!