Dentist’s suggestion for Valentine’s Day

[dardan....@gmail.com]

Valentine's Day is this weekend and in case you're not prepared here's
a suggestion that will really show you care - Dark Chocolate and Red
Wine. Dr. Barotz here.

For years chocolate has been getting a bad rap - high in caffeine,
causes acne and migraines, high in saturated fat, etc. The fact is
recent research shows one of our favorite indulgences can help prevent
cancer and heart disease, and fight tooth decay. It is believed that
most of the bad effects of eating chocolate are either overstated or
entirely false.

The protein, calcium and phosphate content of chocolate may actually
protect tooth enamel, and its naturally-occurring fat content means
that the chocolate clears the mouth faster than other candy, reducing
the amount of time its sugars remain in contact with tooth surfaces.

It is suggested that the cocoa butter in dark chocolate coats the
teeth and helps protect them by preventing plaque from forming. The
sugar can contribute to cavities, but no more than the sugar in any
other food. It is believed that antibacterial agents in cocoa beans
offset the high sugar levels. It is so successful in combating decay
that some scientists believe some of its components may one day be
added to mouthwash or toothpaste.

Wine lovers everywhere know most of the benefits of drinking wine. I
know many who would suggest changing the old nursery rhyme of "an
apple a day" to a "glass of wine a day." It is true that the benefits
of red wine are numerous and plentiful and here's news to make wine
lovers everywhere even happier - red wine may help prevent gum
disease.

If you have read my past articles, you know that gum disease is very
serious. Left untreated, it is the major cause of tooth loss for
adults. According to a recent study, a component of red wine
(polyphenols) may help prevent and reverse gum disease. The higher the
polyphenols, the better. This could be a boon to Colorado wine makers
as high altitude wines are usually richest in polyphenols.

There is one drawback though, that I must warn you about. The same
chemical that is being touted as preventing gum disease can cause the
enamel to wear away. The acid in the wine softens the enamel on your
teeth, so if you brush immediately you can end up scratching your
enamel. Wine drinkers can counter the negative effects of wine by
drinking a lot of water, avoid keeping the wine in your mouth for too
long, and eating something like cheese which provides minerals for the
teeth.

So go ahead and give your beloved a box of dark chocolates and bottle
of red wine. Just remember that fine wine and chocolates should be
appreciated. When eaten as a special treat, with full appreciation, a
little can go a long way.

http://denver.yourhub.com/Boulder/Stories/News/General-News/Story~579262.aspx