![Foods That Can Help Prevent Gum Disease: Lean Beef](https://www.readersdigest.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/3-foods-that-prevent-gum-disease-lean-beef.jpg)
Foods That Can Help Prevent Gum Disease: Lean Beef
We’re not advising you to gobble down whole sides of beef; after all, animal fat is bad for your heart. But oysters, beef and lamb are high in zinc, a mineral with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunity-boosting powers that can battle gum disease. Vitamin B6, plentiful in beef, as well as seafood, also fights gum disease.
![Foods That Can Help Prevent Gum Disease: Whole Grain Cereal with Milk and Orange Juice](https://www.readersdigest.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/3-foods-that-prevent-gum-disease-whole-grain-cereal-with-milk.jpg)
Foods That Can Help Prevent Gum Disease: Whole Grain Cereal with Milk and Orange Juice
While the combination may seem bizarre, this is actually the ultimate breakfast for a healthy smile. Have a bowl of cereal with milk for the calcium you need to keep your teeth healthy and strong. Afterwards, drink a glass of orange juice, which is rich in vitamin C. This vitamin can help gums repair themselves so people who get more of it tend to have healthier-looking teeth.
![Foods That Can Help Prevent Gum Disease: Fruits and Vegetables High in Antioxidants](https://www.readersdigest.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/3-foods-that-prevent-gum-disease-spinach-high-antioxidants.jpg)
Foods That Can Help Prevent Gum Disease: Fruits and Vegetables High in Antioxidants
Eat spinach for gums. Its beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body, is a powerful antioxidant and immunity-booster. Other good sources are other dark leafy greens (including beet greens), sweet potatoes, carrots, winter squash and yellow fruits such as cantaloupe and apricots.
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