Dear Patients,

I have been writing monthly newsletters for over 8 years and I always started the letter off with some “cute” statement about our recent weather and/or the dismal performance of our local sports team. I have decided it’s time for a change and so I will for now on begin these with famous quotes by my favorite people or unknown authors. My first quote is by a man I respect who was loved and hated by many, Winston Churchill. “We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give.” – Winston Churchill

In our office we stress the importance of a healthy diet to have dental health. We are proactive and do nutritional counseling when we exam patients. Recently the CDC stated the obesity rate in 2010 in Ohio was 29.2%. Much of the increase in weight is attributed to an increase in calorie consumption, specifically carbohydrates.

A recent study shows that 60% of Americans eat snack food regularly, accounting for 20% of their caloric intake. This study also demonstrated a link between portion sizes and obesity. According to the CDC, between 1971 and 2000 American women increased their number of calories by 22% from 1,542 to 1,877 per day. American men increased their intake by 7% from 2,450 to 2,618.

Much of these additional calories came from snacking (carbohydrates). These carbohydrates are the food source for the bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease. So, to maintain dental health it is best to limit snacks and eat a balanced diet.

Sincerely,

Michael W. Dagostino, DDS