Independence day is finally upon us once again, and, on behalf of Lemo-Montgomery DDS, here in Mooresville, North Carolina, we’d like to wish all our patients and clients a very happy 4th of July and a marvelous time!
From exciting events, concerts and firework displays, to festive 4th of July dinners, there is plenty to look forward to, and by the looks of next week’s Mooresville and Lake Norman events, the 2016 celebrations promise not to disappoint.
Aside from the joys and excitement of patriotism, fireworks and tasty delicacies, however, we would also like to share a few quick ideas on how to thoroughly enjoy your holiday, while staying in good health and avoiding all those unpleasant cavities that tend to arise when we least expect them.
Holiday Tips to Prevent Cavities
4th of July certainly shouldn’t be underestimated when it comes to the amount of foods and sweets one can expect on the dinner table. After all, celebrating this great nation’s independence only comes once every year, and tasty treats cannot be avoided, whether at parades, family reunions, picnics or barbecues.
If you really want to be able to enjoy the festivities and be ready to jump back into your daily routine without a hitch, however, you have to keep track of your health and avoid those nasty cavities. Unlike what most people will tell you, however, that doesn’t mean avoiding food altogether.
Instead, here are a few helpful tips we recommend for any family looking to enjoy a healthy and painless 4th of July this year:
- Try to limit starchy foods, sweets and soda as much as possible. Simple carbs and sugar are some of the main culprits that will affect your teeth. Keep them in check to enjoy your holiday!
- If you want to enjoy a few sweet treats, make sure to do so during or after meals. This is when saliva production increases, so that the build-up of acids that could be harmful to your teeth is minimized.
- Limit your alcohol intake! Everyone enjoys a good beer, but aside from being a hazard for drivers, alcohol can dry out your mouth, tip the balance of your body chemistry and prevent the proper intake of calcium.
- Speaking of which, calcium is extremely essential! Dairy obtained from grass-fed animals, leafy greens and seafood can all provide your body with an adequate amount of calcium to strengthen those bones and teeth.
- Children should be especially careful about chocolate, sweets and sweet drinks, and try to replace them as much as possible with a healthier diet based on fruit, whole grains and vegetables.
Just because you’re eating healthy doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a thrilling and overall delicious 4th of July dinner. Focus on lean meat and other protein sources. There are lots of delicious recipes for picnic salads, healthy fish and poultry-based dishes, or exquisite and even healthier tofu delicacies for those leading a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle.
Have a Fun and Exciting Time!
Independence Day should be a time of celebration and family closeness for all those who consider themselves true American patriots.
While keeping track of healthy eating habits, remember that the magic of enjoying a quiet family dinner, or an exciting and refreshing 4th of July picnic with your friends and relatives near Lake Norman can be equally important for staying healthy overall.
Here’s to happiness, joy and perfect health,
Kara and Lindsay