When it comes to maintaining optimal oral health, what you eat matters. When choosing what to put on your plate, stick to whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and low-fat or fat-free dairy sources. Limit snacks that are high in fat and sugar, if consumed regularly, they will have a negative impact on your oral health. Moderation and variety are key to a strong body and healthy mouth. We know there are a plethora of options to choose from when it comes to shopping for groceries or buying a meal, but not all are great for your health.
Here are our top picks for health-conscious stores and eateries in the local area!
Common Crow Natural Market
200 Eastern Avenue Gloucester, MA 01930
Located on Eastern Avenue in Gloucester, this locally owned health food store puts a big emphasis on supporting locally grown organic agriculture. They pride themselves on, “select(ing) products that are nutritionally worthwhile and delicious.” Common Crow offers a wide variety of organic fruits, vegetables, meats and shelf staples, along with health and beauty options, from vitamins to protein supplements. Aside from their grocery section, they also have a café and bakery where all offerings are made from scratch daily with organic and natural ingredients. The café offers smoothies, coffee, tea, sandwiches, bowls and salads. Common Crow believes in nurturing the body showcases this message through each aisle of the market. Due to COVID, they are operating at a 25% in-store shopping capacity and have supplemented their shopping experience by offering curbside pickup and online ordering. They open daily at 8:00 AM.
A New Leaf
261 Cabot St. Beverly, MA
A North Shore staple, A New Leaf, is a family-owned health food store and boutique in the heart of Beverly. Holding its place in the community for over 50 years, A New Leaf prides itself on providing locals and visitors alike with the, “opportunity to buy organic foods and natural products that will enrich your health and life.” The store offers a variety of body and health supplements, organic and natural foods, along with beauty and skin care items. They also offer a boutique side that features clothes and shoes from all over the world. It’s a one stop shop for all of your basic necessities. They are open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM with extended hours on Thursday, closing at 8:00 PM.
Organic Garden Café
294 Cabot St., Beverly, MA 01915
This quaint and trendy café on Cabot Street in Beverly offers delicious and nutritious plant-based offerings for the whole family. They have coined themselves the, “café for conscious eating,” working to, “harmonize healthy options with great taste, providing a way of eating that is a cornerstone to nurturing the body, soul, and indeed, the community as a whole.” Opening over 20 years ago, this café is the cornerstone of plant-based eating in our area, providing healthy meat-free options for those who choose not to (or can’t) consume meat proteins. Aside from their full-service menu, they also have a smoothie bar where you can customize your drink to your liking. From savory foods to desserts and meals fit for kids, the variety is impressive. Due to COVID, they’ve had to pivot the way they provide their service to keep the community safe. They are offering food pickup and order online options. They are open Tuesday through Sunday from 11:00 AM to 7:30 PM.
LifeAlive Organic Café
281 Essex St, Salem, MA 01970
With locations throughout the North Shore and Greater Boston Area, LifeAlive Organic Café offers a wide variety of nutrient-rich options for self-proclaimed foodies. Whether you’re vegan or vegetarian, gluten-free or open to trying new meals, LifeAlive offers something for everyone. Their mission is to, “renew your energy and connection to life by soulfully serving you the most fantastic, vibrant, organic, therapeutic, whole food you could ever imagine in an inspiring environment that honors local artisans, the community, and our global ecology.” Their menus slightly vary by location, but they generally offer smoothies, bowls, wraps, fresh-pressed juices, coffee, tea, snacks and soups. They also offer health and vitality shots such as turmeric, ginger and wheatgrass. Through their website you can order pickup, meal prep, delivery or catering. They are open daily with hours of operation depending on specific location.
Nourishing your body is the key to ideal oral health. Choosing foods that provide sustenance, energy and nutrients to your body will put you on the right track in caring for your teeth and gums. Your overall health plays a vital role in the health of your mouth, so don’t skimp on consuming foods that are good for your body. Avoid foods that can cause cavities or oral health issues, such as those with high levels of sugars and high-acid options. To learn more about delicious and wholesome eateries in the area, contact us, we would love to help you explore all that the local area has to offer while helping you stay healthy, especially during the pandemic.
