Keep Cavities at Bay with These Easy, Healthy Children’s Snack Recipes

Similar to many adults, most kids love a tasty snack between meals. Unfortunately, they often gravitate toward treats that are full of sugar, such as candies, highly processed fruit snacks, and sweet drinks. Such items can increase the risk of cavities! What are some snacks you can choose for your family they will help their teeth stay healthy? This blog post contains some useful ideas.

Nutrients to Focus On

A healthy snack should have nutrients that support oral and overall health. Some examples include:

• Calcium. Not only is calcium great for bones, but it is also hugely important for teeth. Dairy products are the best source of calcium, but if your child is lactose intolerant, you can give them almonds or fortified non-dairy milk instead.
• Vitamin D. Vitamin D helps the body fully utilize calcium. It is found in fortified milk products, mushrooms, and egg yolks, among other foods.
• Vitamin C. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that is great for oral and overall health. Citrus fruits are an excellent source of it (just be sure that your child eats citrus only in moderation because these fruits are acidic and overindulgence can damage tooth enamel).
• Other nutrients. Many nutrients can play a role in oral health. Focus on choosing whole, nutrient-rich foods that are not overly sweet.

Recipe Ideas for Quick & Easy Snacks

Here are some kid-friendly snacks that support healthy teeth and good nutrition:

• Apples with nut butter. Apples are a good source of vitamin C. Plus, chewing them can act as a “natural toothbrush” due to their crunchy texture. Choose a nut butter that is low in sugar or sugar-free so it will not contribute to cavities.
• Yogurt parfait. Try layering low-sugar yogurt with some berries and granola. Look for a granola that does not have added sugar.
• Cheese and whole grain crackers. Cheese is a great source of calcium, and whole grains come with their own health benefits.
• Carrot sticks with hummus. Similar to apples, carrots can help clean the teeth. Along with hummus, they provide a powerful nutrient boost to hungry kids.

Your kids are not doomed to snack on nutritionally lacking foods! With a bit of planning, you can provide them with tasty morsels that will support both their smile and overall health!

Meet the Practice

At Alamo Springs Dental, our team is proud to welcome entire families as our patients. We love working with parents to help children develop the foundation for a lifetime of healthy habits. If you would like our advice on how to keep your little one’s smile in great shape, get in touch with our San Antonio office at 210-463-9339.