Depending on what type of food they eat, enjoying a snack may be your child’s favorite time of day. As a parent, you want to help them make healthy choices, but it often requires having them try things they might cringe at or dismiss altogether. Before you give in to their pleas for sugar (and starch), consider how some healthy snack recipes could have them asking for more.
The Serious Truth About Snacking
Everyone knows that children who eat too much sugar and starch are at an increased risk of developing cavities. When consuming these foods, the remnants can remain on the surfaces of their teeth, leading to harmful bacteria and acids eating away at their tooth enamel. What remains is likely to be a small hole – cavity – that requires restorative treatment, like a dental filling, to fix.
However, it’s not just the kind of food your child eats; it’s also how often they enjoy a snack. Frequent consumption prevents teeth from getting the break they need throughout the day. As a result, decay and cavities can develop, putting their young smile at risk.
So, what is the solution when your child begs for a snack? Which food will keep them satisfied but also not pose a threat to their pearly whites?
Healthy Snack Options to Keep Smiles Protected Against Decay
If you want guilt-free, smile-friendly snacks your child will enjoy each day, try one or more of the following recipes:
- Yogurt will give them the calcium and protein they need to develop strong bones and teeth. You’ll just need to buy ones that are not full of candy or sugar. Opt for plain yogurt and add in their favorite fruit.
- Ants on a Log is another name for celery filled with peanut butter and raisins. This classic treat is full of protein, fat, and carbs (but not too many).
- Veggie Pita Pocket can be a new take on a sandwich that your child can enjoy. Instead of filling it with pizza toppings or sandwich meat, use hummus and combine it with their favorite fresh vegetables (i.e., carrots, lettuce, cucumbers, etc.). Full of vitamins and minerals, they’ll enjoy the flavor and start asking for more!
- Banana Oat Cookies: For something a little sweeter, have your child join you in the kitchen to make these delectable goodies. Using fresh bananas instead of refined sugar, you can lower your child’s risk of cavities (and childhood obesity).
- Peanut Butter and Banana Quesadilla: By combining these two into one dish, your child will enjoy the sweetness of the banana while reaping the benefits of a high-protein, fiber-filled snack.
Other healthy snack options include air-popped popcorn, fresh fruits, pickles, nuts, berry smoothies, and more.
By swapping out the chips, candy, cookies, and crackers with the recipes provided, you’ll rest easier knowing your child’s smile is better protected, and you won’t feel guilty when snack time comes around.
About the Author
Dr. Ben Baghai is a board-certified pediatric dentist with more than 20 years of experience. As one of two dental professionals leading the way at Garland Pediatric Dentistry, he enjoys working with children of all ages, helping them develop healthy habits while also making good nutritional decisions. As a father, he understands the challenges parents face when determining which snacks are best for young smiles. This is why he’s pleased to provide guidance and tips on beneficial alternatives that encourage positive tooth and gum development and keep kids satisfied. Contact us at (972) 674=9966 if you need help developing a healthier diet for your child.