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Why Cheese Should Be an Important Part of Your Diet

Posted on 9/16/2024 by Dr. Dani Stansell

Cheese often gets a bad rap for being high in fat and calories. However, cheese offers a surprising number of health benefits that make it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. In fact, incorporating cheese into your diet can even contribute to good oral health! Let's explore the benefits of cheese and how it can play a positive role in your overall health, including your smile.

Cheese: A Powerhouse of Nutrients

Cheese is packed with essential nutrients like calcium, protein, and vitamin D. Calcium is crucial for maintaining strong teeth and bones, while protein helps build and repair tissues throughout the body. Vitamin D plays a vital role in calcium absorption and immune function.

Just one serving of cheese can provide a significant portion of your daily recommended intake of these nutrients. This makes cheese a convenient and delicious way to ensure you're getting the nutrients your body needs.

Benefits of Cheese for Oral Health

Cheese might even be your new best friend when it comes to oral health. Here's how:

•	Increased Saliva Production: Chewing cheese stimulates saliva production. Saliva helps neutralize acids produced by bacteria in the mouth, which can erode tooth enamel and lead to cavities.
•	Strengthens Tooth Enamel: The calcium and phosphorus in cheese help strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay.
•	Reduces Plaque Buildup: Cheese contains casein, a protein that can bind to tooth surfaces and help prevent plaque buildup. Plaque is a sticky film that can harbor bacteria and contribute to cavities and gum disease.

Enjoying Cheese as Part of a Balanced Diet

While cheese offers numerous health benefits, it's important to remember that moderation is key. Cheese is relatively high in saturated fat, so it should be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet and in appropriate portion sizes.

Here are some tips for incorporating cheese into your diet in a healthy way:

•	Choose Low-Fat Varieties: Opt for low-fat or reduced-fat cheese options to manage your saturated fat intake.
•	Pair with Fruits and Vegetables: Balance the richness of cheese with fiber-rich fruits and vegetables to create a satisfying and nutrient-dense meal or snack.
•	Control Portion Sizes: Be mindful of portion sizes to avoid overindulging.

By incorporating cheese into your diet in a mindful way, you can reap its numerous health benefits, including those that contribute to a healthy, beautiful smile.

Remember, prevention is always better than cure when it comes to your oral health. Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential, and your dentist can provide personalized advice on maintaining optimal oral health based on your individual needs.

Locations & Hours

Brier Creek

9400 Brier Creek Parkway, Ste 204
Raleigh, NC 27617-4879

Phone: 984-477-0177
Fax: 919-249-1375

Office Hours
Mon: 8:30am - 6:30pm
Tues: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Wed: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Thur: 7:30am - 4:30pm
Fri: 8:00am - 2:00pm

North Raleigh

1911 Falls Valley Drive, Ste 107
Raleigh, NC 27615

Phone: 984-206-4242
Fax: 919-249-2145

Office Hours
Mon: 8:30am - 6:30pm
Tues: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Wed: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Thur: 7:30am - 4:30pm
Fri: 8:00am - 2:00pm

Knightdale

1101 Great Falls Ct, Ste 102
Knightdale, NC 27545

Phone: 984-733-0330
Fax: 919-415-1849

Office Hours
Mon: 8:30am - 6:30pm
Tues: 8:30am - 5:30pm
Wed: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Thur: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Fri: 8:00am - 2:00pm

Stansell Dentistry Associates, 9400 Brier Creek Parkway, Ste 204, Raleigh, NC 27617-4879; 984-477-0177; stanselldentistry.com; 10/2/2024; Related Terms: dentist Raleigh NC;