As summer draws to an end, it’s time for the great pumpkin invasion. Soon (if not already) pumpkin spice flavored and scented everything will be available for your autumn enjoyment. Why do some of us love this stuff so much? According to science, it’s less about the taste and more about the aroma – pumpkin spice makes us happy.
Pumpkin spice is typically a combo of nutmeg, ginger, cinnamon, and allspice. Sometimes clove makes an appearance, too. The first pumpkin spice thing was created in 1934 by McCormick & Company, who introduced the mix so that their customers wouldn’t have to buy four bottles of spices to make pumpkin pie.
Why We See Pumpkin Spice Everywhere
As you’ve probably noticed, pumpkin spice is no longer limited to pie. Seventeen years ago, Starbucks popularized pumpkin spice in its now infamous seasonal latte. Since then, pumpkin spice has crept into an amazing number of products – including pasta sauce, potato chips, Spam, cereal, deodorant, beef jerky, nut milks and even Marshmallow Peeps.
Last year, Forbes valued the entire pumpkin-spice industry to be worth an estimated $608 million. But are pumpkin spice products a healthy treat?
Is Pumpkin Spice Bad for My Teeth?
There’s nothing inherently unhealthy about nutmeg, ginger, cinnamon, and allspice. Some have even been credited with having antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting benefits. But that’s assuming you’re consuming actual spices, not artificial flavors. The problem is, pumpkin-spiced foods and drinks often contain lots of added sugar, which is not good for your teeth or your overall health. But you can still enjoy pumpkin spice! Here’s how:
Make or purchase your own spice blend – Use it to flavor hot beverages, or sprinkle it on your oatmeal or yogurt. Or anything that you feel could use a little fall flavor.
Check out healthy pumpkin spice recipes online – Here’s a good place to start, especially if you’re following a paleo eating plan.
Pick the right treat – Try to choose a pumpkin-spice item that has no or lower amounts of added sugar.
Brush your teeth afterwards – If you do have a sugary snack, be sure to brush your teeth or rinse your mouth with water after you finish.
Limit the lattes – Besides all that sugar, coffee is an acidic drink that can weaken dental enamel plus stain your teeth. Skip brushing for an hour after having acidic foods or drinks to avoid damaging softened enamel (rinse with water instead).
Avoid sticky pumpkin-spiced treats – The longer sugar lingers on your teeth, the more damage it can do.
See a dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings – No matter what season it is, it’s important to see your dentist twice a year to keep coffee and these sweet treats from dimming or damaging your smile.
At Greg Says we advise that if budget constraints are keeping you from getting the dental care you need, consider getting a dental savings plan – an alternative to traditional dental insurance that can save plan members 10-60% on a wide variety of dental treatments. Go to www.dentalplans.com for details.