Did you know that March is designated as National Nutrition Month? The Center for Disease Control and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics raise awareness about healthy eating habits and the importance of proper nutrition throughout the month of March. Although Dr. Gilly Calcagno is an experienced cosmetic, restorative, and general dentist, she cares about her patients’ total health too.
Whole Grains and Fiber
Many people in the United States don’t consume enough fiber. The USDA encourages men to consume 38 grams of fiber a day and recommends that women ingest about 25 grams a day. Fiber is important for your digestive and bowel health. Dietary fiber intake also lowers your risk for developing heart disease, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Fiber rich foods include whole grains, vegetables, and beans. Whole grains typically contain the highest amounts of fiber and help protect your body from absorbing too much harmful cholesterol. We recommend that patients incorporate fiber rich foods and whole grains into their diets. Instead of refined carbohydrates such as white bread, choose whole grain or multigrain breads that contain flax, bran, and oats.
Vegetables and Fruits
Do you remember your parents telling you to eat your vegetables as a child? We’ve known about the important role vegetables play in a balanced diet for generations, yet many people still do not consume enough vegetables or fruits. Vegetables and fruits are loaded with antioxidants, nutrients, and vitamins. You should consume two and a half cups of vegetables and one and a half cups of fruit every day. Vegetables and fruits help your body repair from daily cellular and free radical damage. Research shows that people who consume adequate amounts of vegetables and fruits lower their risks for developing certain types of cancer, cardiovascular illness, and diabetes.
For more information on the importance of healthy eating, visit the CDC’s website. To schedule an appointment with Calcagno Cosmetic & Family Dentistry, contact our Rochester dentist office at (507) 281-3659. We serve patients from Red Wing, Hastings, Farmington, Rochester, and the surrounding areas.
