Tooth-Healthy Summer Treat Swaps

Happy summer! Here at Bluebell Family Dentistry, we get the chance to work with patients of all ages. We love serving local families, and hope that all of our patients get to enjoy an amazing summer full of lazy days and family fun! When the weather is warm and kids are in vacation mode, we know it can be difficult not to splurge on extra sugary treats and junk foods. In order to help your family maintain a tooth-healthy diet while still enjoying the summer classics, we have put together this kid-friendly food swap guide for the summer!

Swap Out: Ice Cream

Cold, sweet ice cream cones are definitely a summer boardwalk classic. However, ice cream is typically completely full of sugars and other unnatural additives. This is true of ice cream toppings and cones as well.

Swap In: Fruit

If you’re looking for a delicious, equally refreshing alternative to ice cream, try fresh fruit! Cut up your favorite berries, melons, and other fruits and put them together on a beautiful platter or in a cup for on the go snacking. Fruit contains lots of healthy vitamins and minerals, and will help keep you hydrated in the heat.

Another compromise or alternative to ice cream is an acai bowl! Though most of them still have a lot of added sugars, they also contain tons of fruits and other healthy ingredients like peanut butter, chia seeds, and almonds!

Swap Out: Sugary Sodas

We know that sweet, syrupy sodas can sound very refreshing on a warm summer day. However, soda has a lot of added sugars and other corrosive chemicals that can damage your teeth and lead to cavities!

Swap In: Flavored Sparkling Water

Instead of reaching for a can of soda, try sparkling water! There are tons of brands on the market now that offer all kinds of low or no sugar added flavors to choose from. You’ll still get the refreshing, cool carbonation effect, but you’ll stay more hydrated and you won’t have to worry about all that sugar.

Swap Out: Slushies and Milkshakes

Similar to soda, thick, refreshing cold drinks like slushies and milkshakes contain a lot of sugar and additives that aren’t great for you!

Swap In: Homemade Smoothies!

To quench your craving for that same thick, yummy consistency, try a homemade smoothie! You can use all your favorite fruits, and even add in some greek yogurt for extra creaminess. For a little extra chill, use frozen fruits! This will give you more of an icy, slushie-like consistency.

 

Of course, a sugary treat like ice cream or a popsicle every once in a while is perfectly acceptable. Moderation is the key! Building healthy habits early in life will help your child continue to choose to eat a balanced diet into their adult years.

Don’t forget to make your dental appointments with us before school starts up again! If you’re ready, call our office today!