Juicing In January: The Dos and Don’ts For You And Your Teeth

If you’re like many Americans, you’re probably doing your best to eat healthier this month. That may even include dusting off the juicer. But is juice really healthy for you?

Many juices are chock full of sugar and have high acidity levels – both of which are no-no’s for healthy teeth. But you don’t have to avoid juicing altogether. Here are some ways to make your juice work harder for the health of you and your teeth (and taste good too!):

• Vegetables: The majority of your juice should come from green veggies, because they won’t spike your blood sugar and insulin the way fruits and sweet vegetables do. Use leafy greens when you can. Kale, collards and other leafy greens are rich in calcium, magnesium and phosphorus – important nutrients for strong bones and teeth.
• Fruits: Fruits should be used sparingly, such as half a green apple or a handful of berries. Also, be sure to always use ripe fruits as they have less acid than unripe fruits.
• Wheatgrass: Often called “liquid sunshine,” wheatgrass is a superfood with many benefits. It has high chlorophyll content, which is highly energizing. It is also an excellent source of vitamins, minerals and amino acids.
• Coconut oil: Coconut oil is another superfood you can easily add to juices. It has amazing antibacterial properties that are great for teeth. Just stir in a teaspoon and voila! your juice is instantly healthier.
• Cranberry juice: Fresh cranberries and unsweetened cranberry juice are remarkably good for teeth. They contain compounds that stop cavity-causing bacteria from sticking to teeth.
• Use a straw: Drinking your juices with a straw will limit the contact of sugars and acid with your teeth, which keeps them healthier.