Vegetarianism: The Good & The Bad

Posted Mar 2019

By Delta Dental of Arkansas

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By Kara Wilkins

Alicia-SilverstoneStars like Alicia Silverstone & Carrie Underwood are paving the way for everyday people like you and me to ax beef. Vegetarians boast increased endurance, decreased risk of heart disease and overall lower weight. While these are all obviously benefits of saying no to meat, there are other details that concern some dentists. Some people choose to become vegetarians for ethical reasons, some for the health benefits, and many for religious purposes. Whatever the reason, the oral health implications of vegetarianism are the same. A restrictive diet can contribute to vitamin and mineral deficiencies. For this reason, it is important to mention to your dentist your vegetarian lifestyle. Your dentist can give you tips to make sure you get all the nutrients necessary for a healthy mouth. The two most common deficiencies in long-term vegetarians are Vitamin D and Calcium. Deficiencies in Vitamin D and Calcium cause teeth to soften which makes them more vulnerable to tooth decay and periodontal 1 Veganism, the strictest form of vegetarianism, can also put followers at risk for Vitamin B and B12 deficiencies. The potential for troublesome deficiencies are prevalent among young adults and teens who adopt a vegetarian diet without researching how they should supplement their diet with the necessary nutrients. The good news is that your body naturally produces Vitamin D with sun exposure. Make sure to get the right amount of sunlight to help combat this deficiency. A daily supplement with all the necessary vitamins and minerals is also a good idea, especially for younger vegetarians as they continue to grow and develop. Do you have an experience with vegetarianism or veganism that you would like to share? Feel free to leave your stories in the comment section.

1."How Vegetarians Can Ensure Good Oral Health." Delta Dental. 

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