The Importance of Folate on Dental Health

26 Jan The Importance of Folate on Dental Health

Did you know that folate is not only an important part of your diet, but it can also play a major role in the upkeep and health of your mouth? Maintenance of your teeth and gums shouldn’t start and stop only in the bathroom; it should bleed into all of the other areas of your life. One way to do this is with what you eat, so if you want to ensure that your oral health is at its peak, try adding some folate into your regular diet. Fill up on these foods that are rich in folate and help improve your oral health.

• Spinach
• Lentils
• Bananas
• Portabella Mushrooms
• Bok choy
• Oranges
• Peanuts
• Pinto beans
• Romaine lettuce
• Papaya
• Corn
• Egg yolk
• Squash
• Garbanzo beans
• Okra
• Flax seeds
• Mustard greens
• Collard greens
• Black beans
• Brussels sprout
• Grapefruit
• Navy beans
• Celery
• Parsley
• Almonds
• Kidney beans
• Turnip greens
• Lima beans
• Beets
• Carrots
• Strawberries
• Cauliflower
• Sunflower seeds
• Asparagus
• Raspberries
• Broccoli

While many get folate and folic acid confused as the same thing, their metabolic effects make them different. Folate is the natural form of vitamin B9 that can be found in a variety of food, while folic acid is considered to be the synthetic version of the vitamin and can be found in supplements, or in fortified foods. Folic acid is water soluble; which means it should be taken daily because it is not stored in the body. All in all, folate is often noted for its amazing health benefits as it plays a vital role in the growth and repair of cells. Considered to be an essential vitamin, folate makes red blood cells and helps regulate the metabolism of the cells, so it is important for oral health and disease prevention. Pretty amazing what this vitamin does for your body! Learn more about some of the other dental health benefits you receive by adding folate to your diet.

• Folate plays a major role in the prevention of gum tissue
• Folate can help prevent periodontal disease and gingivitis.
• Folate can help reduce inflammation in the gums.
• Folate can make your mouth more resistant to anaerobic bacteria and plaque, two of the main perpetrators in bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease.
• Folate can help cut down your chances of experiencing bleeding gums.
• Folate can lower your chances of developing canker sores.
• Folate helps your gum tissue repair itself.
• Folate helps prevent the onset of gum disease.