A Chewy Treat for Teeth
Research reveals that chewy raisins may provide special benefits to your choppers.
Phytochemicals in raisins appear to help fight cavities by inhibiting the growth of certain types of oral bacteria. Raisins also prevent the bacteria from sticking to teeth. Keep your teeth healthy by brushing and flossing every day, having regular dental checkups and professional teeth cleanings, and choosing smile-friendly snacks.
Raisins are high in heart-healthy nutrients called flavonoids, antioxidant compounds that also may reduce the risk of certain types of cancer and some forms of dementia. A recent study suggests raisins may have dental health benefits as well. Researchers isolated compounds in raisins shown to inhibit bacteria such as cavity-causing S. mutans as well as P. gingivalis, which play a role in periodontal disease. Other beneficial compounds in raisins prevented S. mutans from sticking to teeth, which also could help thwart cavities. More research is needed to confirm these findings. In the meantime, munching on raisins is not a substitute for good oral hygiene. Stay on top of regular brushing, flossing, and dental screening visits to keep your mouth healthy.
RealAge Benefit:
Eating a diverse diet that includes 4 servings of fruit per day can make your RealAge as much as 4 years younger.
"Antimicrobial phytochemicals in Thomas seedless raisins (Vitis vinifera L.) inhibit dental plaque bacteria." Wu, C. D., Rivero-Cruz, J. F., Zhu, M., Su, B., Kinghorn, A. D., American Society for Microbiology Annual Meeting, Atlanta, GA, June 7, 2005.
