With summer rolling in, children are sure to crave their favourite treats while enjoying their time in the sun.
While treats can be enjoyed in moderation, it is important we try to snack as healthy as possible to promote our oral, and overall health. Sometimes it can become difficult to keep coming up with new ideas to keep your children interested in healthy snacking; below we have listed three snacks for you and your family to try over the summer.
Healthy Smoothies
A great refreshing option that tastes great are vitamin-rich smoothies. Toss your favorite fruits in the blender with a little juice, non-fat yogurt, milk, or honey, and blend to the desired consistency.
You can add a few leafy greens for even more nutritional value, and can additionally experiment with other vegetables as well. The combinations are endless, so even picky palates can find a combination to enjoy.
Savoury Snack Platter
Try laying out some savoury snacks such as cheese, crackers, hummus and pitas. This is a great alternative to those potato chip cravings.
Dairy products, like cheese, are low in sugar and rich in calcium and phosphorus, which strengthen and protect enamel. Research shows that eating more dairy may lower your chances for developing gum disease.
Greek Yogurt & Fruit
Crunchier fruits like apples and pears act as a scrubbing agent to help rid your teeth of plaque, and softer fruits such as bananas, berries and watermelon, provide natural sweetness along with vitamins and minerals.
Yogurt has valuable calcium for strong teeth and is also full of vitamin D which helps put the calcium to good use. Try various combinations of fruit in a small portion of yogurt as a sweet snack in place of sugary treats such as ice cream.
Keeping Your Teeth Healthy During The Summer
By sticking to healthier snack alternatives, you are helping promote your oral health long term. While you can still enjoy your favourite treats in moderation, it is important to stick to a healthy snacking routine so that eating treats does not become habitual. Too much sugar long term can lead to complications such as tooth decay.
For more teeth-friendly snacks, and to book your next dental appointment, contact Woolwich Dental today.