“What are some healthy snacks my kids can eat?” We get this question all the time at Z Pediatric Dentistry. Parents can feel overwhelmed.
Summer is just around the corner and that means kids are home! Here are some tips to keep their mouths and your homes healthy no matter how hot it gets outside! Don’t worry parents, no need to get extra fancy here, just remember a few key items.
Keep snack time short
Snack time, also known as a child’s favorite time of day, is an important part of their routine. Keep snack time pretty short, about 15-20 min. Don’t leave a plate of snacks out for kids to munch on all afternoon because the longer food sits on teeth, the more likely they are to get cavities.
Keep snacks healthy
Anything with low amounts of sugar is your best bet for teeth to be strong and healthy. Fruits, vegetables and protein like chicken or turkey are great options. One of my favorite and easy snacks to make is an apple with almond butter, which is lower in fat but just as creamy and tasty. You can try pita bread with hummus or even plain yogurt with fresh fruit (see list below for other suggestions and recipes).
Beware of hidden sugars!
That sugar can really sneak up on you in foods you didn’t realize have large amounts in it. The biggest jokesters are fruit juices. While healthy and good in theory, it is much better to let your child eat the fruit rather than drink a glass of its juice. Most juices have the same amount of sugar as a coca-cola, so skip flavored bevs and stick with water! (see below for other snacks you should avoid).
- Chicken kabobs with peanut sauce
- Orange cranberry muffins
- Almond and Kale smoothie: (I make this every day in the summer and love it!)
- 1 cup chopped kale (discard thick rib in middle of leaf)
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1 tbsp almond butter (more if you like nutty flavor)
- 1 pitted date
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- ½ banana frozen (or room temp banana and add ice).
- agave nectar to taste for sweetness*blend and enjoy
- Gold fish crackers
- White bread
- Gummy fruit snacks
- Pre-made fruit yoghurt
- Ketchup
- Granola bars
If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to call our office at 832.321.7151 or visit our website !