Whether you’re a child or an adult, much of October revolves around sweets. Stores, workplaces, and various events offer treats in the lead-up to Halloween. Given this fact, it wouldn’t be surprising if “spooky season” gives you intense sugar cravings. Luckily, though, there are ways to curb your Halloween sweet tooth. Your Copperas Cove dentist can even tell you a few. So, here’s a summary of why candy is bad for oral health and tips on curbing your desire for Halloween treats.
Candy is Bad for Oral Health
Halloween candy is great to buy or earn through trick-or-treating. Still, you shouldn’t go overboard by overeating. Doing so will put your oral health at serious risk.
Remember, candy is loaded with high amounts of sugar. The latter is a carb that attracts tooth-eroding mouth bacteria. When said microbes wear down your enamel, you may develop cavities as a result. Their presence can also cause gum disease in some cases.
Ways to Curb Your Halloween Sweet Tooth
Thankfully, methods exist for keeping a sweet tooth in check – even during Halloween! Simply try using the tips listed below:
Limit or Reduce Your Candy Stash
You won’t feel tempted by candy if you have little of it. So, give away some of your Halloween sweets once the holiday ends. You can even keep your favorites if you select a sizable amount to send off.
For instance, consider donating a portion of your candy to a charity. Many groups accept sweets for good causes. A notable example is Soldier’s Angels, which has a Treats for Troops program that collects candy for overseas troops.
Stick to a Healthy & Filling Diet
Following a healthy and nutritious diet won’t have you jonesing for more sugar. Quite the opposite, really – it should help reduce your sweet tooth’s intensity.
You see, an unhealthy diet makes your body crave quick fuel sources. One such source is sugar, which can give you fast (if not high-quality) energy. As such, eating whole foods high in protein is a good way to break this reaction. By doing so, you’ll feel more sated and desire sweets less.
Go On a Short Run
As it turns out, you can run from your cravings. Exercising for short bouts is known to reduce the urge for sugary snacks.
The latest research backs this fact. In a study published by PLOS One, researchers found brief periods of physical activity reduced sugar cravings. Exercise may reduce the stress that can trigger the desire for sweets.
Ultimately, curbing your Halloween sweet tooth is possible. Just remember the tips above – your smile will thank you for the effort!
About the Practice
Benchmark Family Dental is based in Copperas Cove, TX. Led by Dr. Caraveo, our practice emphasizes quality dentistry with outstanding customer service. To that end, we offer preventive, cosmetic, and restorative services, as well as emergency dental care. Furthermore, our team ensures each treatment is customized for your unique smile! For more details or to book a visit, you can reach us on our website or by phone at (254)-547-4866.