The Big Chill

Nothing beats fresh food, but let's face it: as winter settles in, frozen meals tend to creep onto our grocery lists. Don't fret entirely. According to the UK-based Institute of Food Research, fresh veggies can lose up to 45 percent of their health-enhancing nutrients the minute they're picked, so whether they're frozen when harvested or sold fresh, the benefits are essentially the same.

You know you need to brush and floss two to three times a day to protect your pearly whites, but scientists are now beginning to understand how your diet can fight cavities and build strong teeth. Nibble on these foods daily for a truly healthy smile.

Apples
The tart fruit increases your flow of saliva, rinsing away bacteria and keeping your mouth moist.

Soya and eggs
Protein-rich foods replenish cells, which helps keep blood flowing to the nerve endings inside your teeth.

Carrots, celery and bell peppers
Crunchy vegetables cleanse and stimulate your gums. They also contain vitamin C, which regenerates collagen, the basic ingredient of gum tissue.

Dark chocolate
Recent studies show that the sweet stuff contains chemicals that fight plaque build-up (but go for at least 80 percent cocoa, or the added milk and sugar will negate the effect).