Dental Expert Warns Against Snacking on Fruit

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The message coming from most health experts is to try and eat or drink at least five portions of fruit and vegetables per day, but a leading dental expert has warned against snacking on fruit, instead advising people to stick to eating fruit at mealtimes.

Professor Damien Walmsley, an adviser to the British Dental Association, has warned that snacking on fruit between meals can damage the teeth, as the sugar weakens the protective enamel surfaces of the teeth, leaving them susceptible to damage. Citrus fruits are also acidic, which contributes to acid erosion of the teeth. Enamel is the hardest substance in the body, but once it is worn, it cannot be repaired.

Eating fruit and vegetables has a host of health benefits, as these foods contain vital nutrients, minerals and vitamins but dental experts are eager for people to boost their fruit intake at mealtimes, when the teeth are already under attack. Snacking in between meals increases the number of acid attacks per day and the teeth can only withstand a limited number of attacks.

Professor Walmsley also advised eating a small lump of cheese or having a drink of milk or water after eating fruit or drinking fruit juice to neutralise the acid in the mouth.

Professor Walsmley’s advice comes shortly after it was revealed that many of the drinks labelled as ‘healthy’ for children have a high acid content. Fruit smoothies and juices, which parents give to their children as a healthy alternative to fizzy drinks, often have elevated levels of citric acid, putting children’s oral health at risk.

 

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