Happy Holidays from all of your friends at our Hermiston dental office! As we all celebrate and gather again with our loved ones, there tends to be an abundance of something other than love, and that’s sugary sweets. We all know what sugar can do to your smile, but it can be not-so-good for your overall health, too. We all know holiday treats can be truly irresistible to us all, so here are just a few ways you can reduce your sugar intake and still celebrate:
Tip #1 – Don’t Lose Sleep
It might sound strange, but you might be able to cut back on sugar by just getting enough sleep during the holidays and every night of the year. Research says that when someone gets less than five hours of sleep each night, they tend to gravitate towards sugary drinks for an energy boost. If you’re feeling sluggish, try swigging water instead, it will help you feel better without a sugar crash later.
Tip #2 – Don’t Miss Meals
Did you know that sugar cravings are often due to an imbalance in your blood sugar? The key to keeping blood sugar balanced is eating foods rich in proteins and healthy fats. While your Hermiston dentist knows this time of year can be busy and hectic, it’s important that you don’t miss or skip meals. This causes your blood sugar to drop dramatically.
Tip #3 – Don’t Cut Sweets
You read that right. We know it’s unrealistic not to expect to have a little dessert at your holiday gatherings. Try to enjoy this part of your meal in moderation, or swap your sweets for low-sugar treats like dark chocolate or yogurt. Are you in charge of the cooking or baking? Try using a natural substitute or cut the sugar in the recipe in half.
Reducing your sugar intake is never a bad idea during the holiday seasons and the rest of the year, and it can help you enjoy improved oral and overall health. If you have questions or would like to schedule a year-end appointment at our dental office in Hermiston, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today. We can get you scheduled for a visit, and we look forward to seeing you and your smile!
