Help your family snack smarter by following these simple tips
Brushing and flossing are essential routines to keep teeth healthy. Did you know that picking the right snacks can also help keep your family’s teeth healthy? When the family is on the go, eating the right snacks can provide a boost of energy and nutrient to nourish the body and keep teeth healthy. A good number of snacks found in your grocery stores can be pack with high salt or sugar. These snacks are tasty, but they are not as good for your health and teeth. Children who regularly consume sugary snacks are more prone to develop tooth decay and health issues. The snacks we choose for our family don’t have to c high sugar and salts. Healthy snacks can taste as good or even better than sugary and salty snacks. Here is a list of snacks that are easily packed when the family is on the go.
These snacks are rich in nutrients and low on sugar.
- Nuts are healthy alternatives to potato chips and other salty snacks. The refined starches found in potato chips are readily made available to cavity-causing bacteria. Nuts, on the other hand, are filled with proteins and fiber. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals that are beneficial for protecting and building stronger teeth. Nuts can be rich in calcium, which is an essential building block of a tooth. When chewing nuts, the chewing action promotes saliva production and helps clear the mouth of food particle and helps fight bacteria.
- Fresh fruits and vegetables are a natural alternative to sugary candies. Fruits and vegetables are packed full of antioxidant and minerals that are beneficial to building strong, healthy teeth. Some examples of fruits that can be pack quickly are melons, pears, berries, oranges, and apple. Fruits that have texture when you bite into, such as an apple can help remove plaque on the surface of the teeth. Not only are fruits and vegetables better alternative to candy, but they also provide a rich source of vitamin C that promotes gum health. So, eat plenty of citruses, spinach, and broccoli.
- Fruit juices, milk, and water are much better drinks than carbonated sodas. Even though fruit juices may be sweet is still a much better choice than soda. They provide more nutrients and minerals than what can be found in soda. Not only will you get a boost of energy from the natural sugars in juices but minerals such as calcium and magnesium help strengthen tooth enamel.
Eating a variety of nutrient-rich foods promotes healthy teeth and gums. A balanced snacking can provide essential nutrients for optimum oral health as well as overall health.
In addition to healthy snacking, oral health problems can be prevented by practicing good oral hygiene. Be sure to contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 to schedule your next appointment.
