If you’ve ever spent time (and money) chasing that perfect, gleaming smile, you know the effort it takes to maintain it. The truth is, even the best teeth whitening products or professional treatments will only deliver short-lived results if your daily habits continue to sabotage the sparkle. In this deep dive into why your teeth don’t shine — and how to get them white again — we’re laying out everything you need to know to win the battle against discolouration.

The phrase “How to Get Them White Again” sits right at the centre of this story, because restoring brightness is far more than cosmetic. It’s a confidence thing, a hygiene thing, and often an investment you’ll want to protect. We’ve enlisted the expert advice of Dr Keith Bracy, DDS, a leading dentist based in NYC’s West Village, to uncover the habits that fade your pearly whites, and what actually works to bring them back to brilliance.

Your Teeth Are Yellow for More Reasons Than You Think

It’s easy to blame coffee, tea, or red wine. But yellowing teeth are the result of a much larger lifestyle picture. Even those with the whitest smiles often didn’t start that way — they worked for it, or had cosmetic help. Understanding the cause behind dull teeth gives you the first step toward restoring their brightness, without wasting money on treatments that get undone in days.

1. You’re Not Brushing or Flossing Quickly After Eating

Let’s be honest: avoiding curry, red wine, or soy sauce altogether is an unrealistic approach to life. According to Dr Bracy, what matters more is your behaviour after consuming these foods. “Chances are, if you’re eating like a normal human being, you’ll encounter plenty of foods and liquids that stain your enamel,” he says. “Some level of staining is inevitable in a healthy, varied diet.”

The key? Clean up quickly. Brushing and flossing soon after indulging helps neutralise acid attacks and removes chromogens (colour pigments) before they settle. Wait too long, and you’re allowing those stains to embed themselves into your enamel.

2. You’re Brushing and Flossing Incorrectly

You might brush your teeth daily, but if your technique is sloppy or too short, you’re not doing yourself any favours. Brushing should last two full minutes, cover every corner of your mouth, and be done at least twice a day. “And flossing? That’s non-negotiable,” says Dr Bracy. “Especially before bed. Otherwise, you leave food pressed between your teeth overnight, and that’s a recipe for discolouration.”

When brushing, use a soft-bristled brush and avoid scrubbing too hard — enamel doesn’t grow back. Improper technique can cause gum recession and surface damage that makes your teeth appear darker.

3. You’ve Never Actually Tried Whitening

If you haven’t whitened your teeth, don’t be too hard on yourself for having a natural yellow hue. Genetics play a role, as does ageing. But if you genuinely want whiter teeth, you’ll likely need to put in the effort. Over-the-counter strips can help, but professional treatments or at-home systems with custom trays are more effective and safer for long-term maintenance.

“Stop overanalysing why your teeth are yellow,” advises Dr Bracy. “Most people with very white teeth weren’t born that way. They’ve either undergone professional whitening or chosen veneers. If you want results, talk to your dentist about your options.”

4. You’re a Smoker

This one’s obvious, but too often dismissed. Smoking is one of the fastest ways to discolour your teeth, not to mention destroy your gums and oral health. And it’s not just tobacco: cannabis is also a culprit. “Cannabis contains the same tannins as tea, and those can stain just as badly,” notes Bracy.

Both substances contribute to brownish, sticky tar deposits on the enamel surface. Quitting isn’t just better for your lungs — it could dramatically improve your smile, too.

5. You’re Getting Older

Just like collagen loss leads to wrinkles, enamel wears down with age, allowing the naturally yellow dentin underneath to show through. Dr Bracy explains, “Teeth become more resistant to whitening with age. The younger you are, the better results you’ll see.”

But don’t lose hope — consistent maintenance and occasional whitening touch-ups can still make a significant difference. Focus on a routine that keeps surface stains at bay and supports healthy enamel.

6. You Skip Regular Dental Cleanings

Even if you brush daily, routine professional cleanings are essential. Dental hygienists remove extrinsic stains (surface-level discolouration) with tools and techniques that your toothbrush simply can’t match.

“It’s very common for patients to complain about yellow teeth while also having neglected their regular cleanings,” says Bracy. Those cleanings also allow your dentist to track any enamel erosion or gum disease that may be accelerating the dulling effect.

7. You’re Using Ineffective Whitening Products

Whitening toothpastes are often marketed as miracle products, but many of them lack the strength to produce visible results. “The best method is custom whitening trays like the KöR Whitening System,” says Bracy. “They mould to your smile, ensure even coverage, and can be reused with refill gels.”

Using these trays as part of a “maintenance whitening” plan (once every few months) keeps your teeth at their peak whiteness. Plus, they’re far less abrasive than strips and reduce sensitivity when used correctly.

8. You Use Mouthwash with Alcohol

Surprisingly, some types of mouthwash can dry out your mouth, especially those containing alcohol. Saliva is your mouth’s natural cleansing agent — it helps wash away food particles and neutralise acids. A dry mouth creates an environment where stains settle more easily.

Choose an alcohol-free mouthwash that supports enamel health and promotes saliva production. Better yet, drink more water throughout the day and chew sugar-free gum to keep your mouth hydrated.

9. You Grind Your Teeth

Teeth grinding (bruxism) wears down enamel and leads to microfractures that can darken teeth over time. It’s especially common during sleep and often goes unnoticed.

If you wake up with jaw pain or sensitivity, talk to your dentist about a custom night guard. Protecting your enamel from further erosion can preserve brightness and make whitening more effective.

10. You’re Not Consistent with Your Routine

The best teeth whitening plan in the world won’t work if it’s not done consistently. Whitening gels need to be used regularly, your brushing technique must be on point, and you need to follow through with touch-ups. “Think of it like going to the gym,” Bracy says. “You can’t expect six-pack abs after one session. The same logic applies to your smile.”

Consistency builds and maintains results. Pair that with the right products and habits, and your pearly whites can stay brighter for longer.

The Bright Way Forward

When it comes to getting your teeth white again, the answer isn’t just “buy the best whitening strips” or “book a treatment.” It’s about long-term behaviour changes that support oral health and make those cosmetic efforts worthwhile. Brush and floss properly, eat and drink mindfully, visit your dentist regularly, and invest in quality whitening methods that actually work.

As Bracy puts it, “A healthy, bright smile is achievable at any age — you just need the right roadmap.”

Hugely popular in South America and rapidly gaining traction globally, yerba mate tea has become the go-to drink for people who want an energy boost without the classic coffee crash. They also enjoy yerba mate health benefits. It’s not only the pre-game fuel for athletic icons like Leo Messi and Luis Suárez. It’s also increasingly favored by health-conscious individuals seeking better focus, mood, and long-term well-being. But what exactly makes this bitter herbal tea so powerful? According to herbalists and registered dietitians, the list of yerba mate’s health benefits is long and science-backed.

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1. Yerba Mate – Smooth, Sustained Energy Without the Crash

Yerba mate contains approximately the same amount of caffeine as coffee, yet it’s known for a gentler, longer-lasting energy release. This is likely due to a unique synergy between caffeine and two other key compounds: theobromine and theophylline. Theobromine enhances mood and alertness while avoiding the jittery crash often associated with coffee. Theophylline, commonly used to treat respiratory issues, is known to promote a calm, focused mental state. The result? A heightened sense of clarity, focus, and motivation. This makes yerba mate ideal for work, workouts, or just powering through the day while enjoying yerba mate health benefits.

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2. Yerba Mate Reduces Inflammation with Powerful Antioxidants

Yerba mate is loaded with antioxidants, particularly polyphenols like chlorogenic acids (CGAs). These compounds help lower systemic inflammation, fight oxidative stress, and protect the body against cellular damage. This provides significant yerba mate health benefits. Multiple studies have linked regular consumption of yerba mate to reduced inflammation and lowered risk of chronic diseases, including cancer and cardiovascular problems. Its anti-inflammatory effects also tie into pain relief and immune regulation.

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3. Yerba Mate Supports Joint Health and May Ease Arthritis Symptoms

Although more human trials are needed, animal studies show yerba mate may help alleviate arthritis symptoms thanks to its potent anti-inflammatory effects. Experts attribute this to the combination of CGAs and saponins. These are naturally occurring plant compounds with immune-modulating and anti-inflammatory properties. While not a replacement for medical treatment, it may be a supportive lifestyle addition for those with joint issues.

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4. Yerba Mate Boosts Brain Health and Cognitive Function

Yerba mate supports both short-term brain performance and long-term brain health. In the short term, the combination of caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline enhances focus, mental energy, and mood. This delivers yerba mate health benefits. Long term, polyphenols act as neuroprotective agents, helping to preserve brain cell function and reduce the risk of diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Early studies even suggest yerba mate may help reduce plaque buildup in the brain, which is linked to cognitive decline.

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5. Yerba Mate Aids in Weight Loss and Appetite Control

Yerba mate can be a helpful ally in weight management. Scientific research shows that compounds in the tea may help suppress appetite, reduce fat cell formation, and even improve metabolic efficiency. While it’s no magic solution, yerba mate can enhance other lifestyle changes like diet and exercise. Some studies suggest it mimics aspects of medications like GLP-1 (e.g., Ozempic) by influencing hunger hormones. This contributes to yerba mate health benefits.

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6. Yerba Mate Promotes Heart Health

From lowering LDL (“bad”) cholesterol to improving blood pressure regulation, yerba mate offers several heart-healthy benefits. Its antioxidants combat oxidative damage to blood vessels. Meanwhile, its high potassium and magnesium content supports cardiovascular function and proper muscle contraction—including the heart. These minerals are also essential for nerve signaling and fluid balance. With all these yerba mate health benefits, it’s no wonder it is becoming popular.

It’s also available on Amazon.AE through the following link

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How to Make Yerba Mate the Traditional Way

Traditionally consumed in a gourd with a bombilla (metal straw), yerba mate preparation is a cultural ritual in South America. This is especially true in Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay. Here’s a simple guide to prepare it like a local:

1. Fill a cured gourd halfway with loose yerba mate leaves.
2. Tilt the gourd 45 degrees to create a space on one side.
3. Add hot (not boiling) water—about 70–80°C (160–175°F)—into the open space.
4. Let it steep briefly, then insert the bombilla into the steeped side.
5. Sip and refill with water as needed.

You can buy starter kits online that include the gourd and bombilla. Alternatively, brew yerba mate in a French press or tea infuser if you prefer convenience.

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Important Precautions with Yerba Mate

While generally safe for healthy individuals, yerba mate is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. It is also not recommended for people with heart conditions unless cleared by a doctor. Its caffeine content can raise heart rate and blood pressure in sensitive individuals. Moderation is key.

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Yerba Mate in UAE: The New Trend?

As awareness grows around natural energy boosters and adaptogens, yerba mate is quietly making its way into Dubai cafés, wellness boutiques, and even pre-workout shelves in fitness circles. Its cultural richness, performance benefits, and antioxidant power are making it a favorite among UAE residents. They are seeking better ways to energize without side effects.

You don’t have to be Messi to enjoy the advantages of this age-old herbal drink that offers numerous yerba mate health benefits. Whether you’re prepping for a gym session, starting a long workday, or just seeking a healthy caffeine alternative, yerba mate might be your new favorite cup of tea.

Vitamin B12 may not always get the spotlight like vitamin C or D, but it plays an essential role in keeping our bodies running smoothly. From neurological function to red blood cell production, a deficiency, known as Vitamin B12 Deficiency, in this crucial vitamin can lead to long-term health problems if not addressed quickly. This article dives into the signs, causes, and actionable solutions for B12 deficiency—tailored for a modern UAE lifestyle.

What Is Vitamin B12 and Why It Matters

Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is a water-soluble vitamin vital for three primary functions:

• Red blood cell formation
• DNA synthesis
• Neurological function

It is naturally found in animal-based foods, which means those following plant-based diets are more susceptible to deficiency. B12 deficiency can cause a condition known as megaloblastic anaemia, where the body produces unusually large and dysfunctional red blood cells. But more critically, long-term deficiencies can impact cognitive performance, mood stability, and nerve health.

Who Is at Risk of B12 Deficiency in the UAE?

Several demographics are particularly vulnerable:

• Vegetarians and Vegans: Without animal products, dietary B12 becomes nearly impossible to obtain naturally.
• Older Individuals: Ageing reduces the stomach’s ability to absorb B12.
• People with Digestive Disorders: Conditions like Crohn’s disease or celiac disease can impede absorption.
• Long-term Medication Users: Proton pump inhibitors and metformin have been linked to lower B12 absorption.
• Heavy Alcohol Consumers: Alcohol impairs nutrient absorption and damages gut health.

According to Sophie Trotman, a registered nutritionist, “Long-term use of certain medications, such as proton pump inhibitors or metformin, and excessive alcohol intake can also lead to B12 deficiency.”

Recognising the Symptoms: Are You B12 Deficient?

A Vitamin B12 deficiency doesn’t usually develop overnight. It can creep in over time, with symptoms often mistaken for other health issues. Common signs include:

• Chronic fatigue or weakness
• Numbness or tingling in hands and feet
• Difficulty walking or maintaining balance
• Memory loss or cognitive decline
• Pale or jaundiced skin
• Mood changes such as depression or irritability

Dr Lapa, a UAE-based nutritional health consultant, adds: “In extreme cases, B12 deficiency can lead to severe and potentially irreversible symptoms including nerve damage and significant cognitive decline.”

The Science: How Does B12 Deficiency Happen?

Vitamin B12 from food is bound to protein and must be released through stomach acid. It’s then absorbed in the small intestine with the help of intrinsic factor, a glycoprotein. If any part of this chain breaks, such as low stomach acid or damaged intestinal lining, deficiency may follow.

This makes it especially important in the UAE, where high-stress lifestyles and gastric issues are common. Overuse of acid-reducing medications, prevalent among expats and locals alike, also plays a contributing role.

Can You Get Enough B12 From Diet Alone?

Yes—and no. If you consume a diet rich in animal products, you’re likely safe. Foods high in B12 include:

• Organ meats (especially liver)
• Shellfish such as clams and crabs
• Fatty fish like salmon and tuna
• Eggs
• Dairy: milk, yoghurt, and cheese

For vegetarians and vegans, fortified foods become essential:

• Plant-based milks enriched with B12
• Fortified cereals
• Nutritional yeast

However, Trotman notes, “It’s challenging to obtain sufficient B12 from plant-based sources alone,” suggesting supplementation for those following a strict vegan or vegetarian diet.

Supplementation: When Food Isn’t Enough

If you’re showing symptoms or fall into an at-risk group, supplementation may be necessary. Options include:

• Oral Supplements: Cyanocobalamin and methylcobalamin are common forms. Methylcobalamin is more bioavailable but pricier.
• Sublingual Tablets: Absorbed under the tongue, bypassing the digestive tract.
• Nasal Sprays: Quick and convenient, especially for those with absorption issues.
• Injections: Administered intramuscularly, these are used in severe cases for rapid correction.

Wedgwood, a clinical nutritionist, explains: “B12 shots bypass the digestive process entirely, allowing for more immediate absorption. Many patients feel a boost in energy and mental clarity within a week or two.”

How to Get Tested in the UAE

Blood tests for B12 levels are widely available in the UAE through private clinics and hospitals. If you experience symptoms or fall into a high-risk category, request a blood test that measures:

• Serum B12
• Methylmalonic acid (MMA)
• Homocysteine levels

These biomarkers offer a fuller picture of your B12 status. Testing is quick and affordable, and often covered by health insurance.

The Risks of Ignoring a Deficiency

Left unchecked, a deficiency in Vitamin B12 can lead to:

• Irreversible nerve damage
• Severe anaemia
• Cognitive impairment
• Mood disorders, including depression and paranoia
• Heart issues due to elevated homocysteine levels

As Dr Lapa puts it, “If left untreated, these symptoms can result in permanent nerve damage and substantial impairment in daily functioning.”

Prevention: A UAE Lifestyle Guide

To maintain healthy B12 levels, consider the following steps:

• Eat B12-rich meals regularly
• Monitor alcohol consumption
• Avoid unnecessary use of antacids
• Consider annual blood tests, especially if you’re vegan or over 50
• Use supplements if advised by your doctor

In a fast-paced country like the UAE, where brunches, travel, and high-pressure jobs are common, burnout symptoms might be masking something more serious, like a B12 deficiency.

Final Thought

Vitamin B12 may be the unsung hero in your nutritional line-up, but it’s one you can’t afford to ignore. Whether you’re a wellness aficionado or just trying to stay energised through the working week, keeping your B12 in check is a smart move. With simple dietary adjustments, routine tests, or strategic supplementation, staying on top of this essential nutrient is easier than ever.