Your Mouth is the Gateway to Your Body

Nutrition is vital to your oral (and overall) health – eat well!

TORONTO, March 5, 2015 /CNW/ - March is Nutrition Month. Ontario's dentists remind people to eat a nutritious and balanced diet, because healthy eating has a direct impact on an individual's oral health.

The Ontario Dental Association supports the Dietitians of Canada's Eating 9 to 5! campaign dedicated to helping Canadians eat well at work. The campaign targets the times of the day when eating healthy might not be so easy, encouraging people to combat rushed mornings; improve choices at meetings, events and in the workplace; revive lunchtime; fight the mid-day slump; and manage commuter cravings.

"Making good choices and nutrition are essential in maintaining your oral health. The Eating 9 to 5! campaign is a great reminder not to skip on nutrients during your busy day. Dentists see first-hand the consequences of having a poor diet – tooth decay, acid erosion and mouth ulcers," says Dr. Gerald Smith, President of the Ontario Dental Association. "Just like our bodies, our teeth and gums need many essential vitamins and minerals to stay strong and healthy."

"Choosing healthy snacks at work like nuts, seeds, cheese or yogurt instead of sugary snacks and drinks is important for good oral health," says Kate Comeau, a dietitian and spokesperson for the Dietitians of Canada. "These healthy snacks can also help you to avoid the midday slump and help you to meet your overall health goals."

Maintaining healthy and strong teeth during your lifetime means ensuring individuals are getting enough calcium, phosphorous and vitamins A, C and D. This means having a balanced diet that includes whole grain breads and cereals, fruits and vegetables and lean meats.

"Poor oral health not only affects your physical, emotional and mental well-being, but is associated with serious conditions, such as diabetes and respiratory diseases," says Dr. Smith. "According to Health Canada, 4.15 million working days for adults are lost annually due to dental visits or dental sick days."

For optimal oral health, brush at least twice a day, floss daily and see your dentist regularly. Visit www.youroralhealth.ca for more information on nutrition and oral health. For more information about Dietitians of Canada's Eating 9 to 5! campaign, visit www.nutritionmonth2015.ca. Residents of Ontario can also speak to a dietitian free of charge by phoning EatRight Ontario at 1-877-510-5102.

SOURCE Ontario Dental Association

and to interview Dr. Gerald Smith, ODA President, contact: Janiece Walsh, ODA Public Affairs, Telephone: [phone], Email: [email protected]; For information on the Eating 9 to 5! campaign, contact: Kate Comeau, MSc, RD, Manager, Public Relations and Media, Dietitians of Canada, Telephone: [phone], Email: [email protected]