If you have decided to lose a few pounds after the New Year, then you are not alone. Losing weight is one of the most common New Year's resolutions made every year.

Making smart food choices, paying attention to portion size and exercising can be followed to drop the pounds, and these changes can benefit your health more. They can also be good for your oral hygiene and your teeth. Read on for little tricks that can make a big difference to your smile.

When planning meals

Until now:

You may have preferred fatty foods, enjoyed too much food or not spent much time planning what should be on your plate.

Now:

Make sure you learn how much lean protein, vegetables, grains and dairy products are in the foods you eat

Why:

Food is fuel for your body and the right kinds of food will help you look, feel and function better. Odontiatros-sos.gr is a resource to get you started with tips to adopt new, healthy habits and understand what and how much you should be eating each day.

Fruits and vegetables: These should cover half your plate at meals. They are high in water and fibre, which balance the sugars they contain and help clean your teeth. These foods also help stimulate saliva production, which washes harmful acids and food particles away from the teeth and helps neutralize acid, protecting teeth from cavities.

Seeds: At least half of the grains you eat should be whole grains or breads and low-sugar cereals such as oatmeal, wholemeal bread and brown rice.

Protein: Make lean protein choices such as lean beef, skinless poultry and fish. Include in your choices to include more protein eggs, beans, peas and legumes. These phosphorus-rich foods help keep your mouth healthy and contain valuable protein, which helps you feel fuller for longer periods of time.

Dairy products: When it comes to dairy products, choose low-fat or fat-free dairy foods. Milk and other dairy products such as cheese and yogurt are low in sugar, which is good for your dental health. In addition, they contain protein and are full of calcium, which are good for healthy teeth and gums.

When you could really get a snack

Until now:

When hunger strikes, you get to the first food.

Now:

You are better prepared and choose healthy foods.

Why:

Picking up chips, crackers or anything else is an easy way for calories to slip. Limiting snacking and making better choices can help you control your calorie intake and give the cavity-causing bacteria in your mouth less food left over. If you do snack, make a nutritious choice - such as cheese, yogurt, fruits, vegetables or nuts - to feel fuller, longer and help your overall and dental health at the same time.

If you tend to snack in the evening, try increasing your brushing time a little. A clean mouth may motivate you to say no to that midnight snack.