It’s finally summer! Our young patients are always super excited to be out of school and free to enjoy their summer vacation! We know it can be difficult not to splurge on extra sugary treats and junk foods when you and your family are in vacation mode. In order to help your kids maintain a tooth-healthy diet while still enjoying a fun-filled summer, we have put together this kid-friendly guide to food swaps for the summer!
Swap Out: Ice Cream Cones
Cold, sweet ice cream treats are definitely a summer classic. Whether you’re enjoying ice cream as a dessert after a BBQ or an ice cream bar from your local ice cream truck, these treats are typically completely full of sugars and other unnatural additives.
Swap In: Fresh Fruit
If you’re looking for a yummy and refreshing alternative treat to ice cream, try fresh fruit! Cut up your kids’ favorite fruits and put them together on a beautiful platter for your BBQ party, or in a cup for portable snacking. Fruit contains lots of healthy vitamins and minerals, and they also contain a lot of water that will help keep you and your family hydrated in the heat.
If your kids are really adamant about their ice cream craving, try an acai bowl! Though most acai or pitaya bowls still contain a lot of added sugars, they’re made of tons of fruit and other healthy ingredients like peanut butter, chia seeds, and almonds!
Swap Out: Sugary Drinks
We know that sweet, syrupy sodas, lemonade, and artificially flavored juices can sound very refreshing on a warm summer day. However, these drinks typically contain a lot of added sugars and other corrosive chemicals that can damage your teeth and lead to cavities! They can also end up causing dehydration in the heat, depending how much sodium they contain.
Swap In: Flavored Sparkling Water
Instead of grabbing a can of soda, try a refreshing sparkling water! There are tons of brands available on the market now that offer all kinds of low or no added sugar formulas and tons of flavors to choose from. You’ll still get the refreshing, cool carbonation effect of soda, but you’ll be more hydrated and you won’t have to worry about all the sugar and cavities.
If you’re looking to curb a milkshake or slushie craving, try a homemade smoothie! Blended frozen fruit delivers a similar thick, cold consistency with much less sugar and more hydration. You can even add greek yogurt for extra creaminess!
Of course, a sugary summer treat every once in a while is perfectly acceptable. Moderation is the key to success! Building healthy habits early in life will help your child maintain a balanced diet into their adult years.
Don’t forget to make your kids’ dental appointments with us before school starts up again! If you’re ready, call our office today!