September is recognized as Whole Grains Month and is a 30-day celebration for all things grainy. These whole grains are beneficial for heart health, overall health, and may even boost oral health too. In this blog, our Alexandria dental office covers some quick facts about whole grains and how it relates to good oral health, as well as some of the best ways you can help your family get enough of the good stuff.
How Many Servings of Whole Grains Do You Need?
Like most things, the recommended amount of whole grains varies from age to age and even by gender. Use the handy table below from the 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans to determine how many whole grains each member of your family should eat every day.
Recommended Daily Whole Grain Servings
| Age | Female | Male |
| 1-3 | 2 | 2 |
| 4-8 | 2.5 | 2.5 |
| 9-13 | 3 | 3.5 |
| 14-18 | 3.5 | 4 |
| 19-30 | 3.5 | 4.5 |
| 31+ | 3 | 4 |
Great Sources of Whole Grain
Getting enough whole grains in your diet may seem difficult, but whole grains can be found in tons of delicious foods including:
- Cereals
- Popcorn
- Bread or Wraps
- Crackers
- Pasta
How Do Whole Grains Help Grins?
Whole grains are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber that are great for bodies of all ages. In terms of oral health, the B vitamins and iron found in whole grains help keep gums healthy, and the magnesium keeps bones and teeth strong. Research also shows that eating a good dose of whole grains can also reduce the risk of gum disease since whole grains help the body better process blood sugar. As we all know, sugar makes your dentist in Alexandria shiver, and anything that helps protect the body against it is welcomed.
Ensuring that your whole family is eating a well-balanced diet can go a long way in keep both bodies and smiles healthy. Getting regular dental checkups every six months can help too. If anyone in your family is in need of a dentist, call our dental office in Alexandria to schedule an appointment today.
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