You Are What You Eat. Give Your Kids a Healthy Diet for Healthy Smiles for Life.

By Platon Argyropoulos

It’s true what they say… “you are what you eat.” When it comes to nutrition for your kids, what they put in those tummies not only affects their overall well-being, it affects their oral health too. And with summer in full swing in Hampton Roads with sugary snacks at every turn, it’s more important than ever to set the tone now for a healthy summer break. Hampton Roads Pediatric Dentistry is here to help you make the right food choices for your kids so they will make the right choices on their own down the road. Check out some helpful summer nutrition tips for kids below.

• Pack the Protein

Protein is a great buffer against acid that causes tooth decay. Stock up on nuts, cheeses, yogurt and turkey. Cheese and yogurt have the added benefit of Calcium which helps preserve and rebuild tooth enamel and helps produce saliva, which kills the bacteria that causes cavities!

• Get a Fruit Fix

Fruits are high in Vitamins A & C and help keep gums and teeth healthy.  Choose fruits with a high water content like apples and pears. Word of caution: Stay away from dried fruit and canned fruit with syrup as they have a much higher percentage of sugar than fresh fruits!

• Water Wins

The bacteria in your kid’s mouth feeds on sugar and produces acid that attacks their teeth and causes decay. Water promotes saliva formation and helps rinse the pesky acid and bacteria from your kid’s mouth. If your child does have a sugary beverage, have them drink it with a straw to help keep sugar away from the teeth and rinse with water after.

• Veggies for Victory

Instead of grabbing a carbohydrate-packed snack, give your kiddos fresh baby carrots with ranch dressing or hummus or cut up celery with peanut butter.  Really want to impress your kids? Check out this spiralized summer salad recipe your kids will love! Who doesn’t like spiralized veggies?!

There you have it. We hope these tips come in handy this summer. If you have any questions or would like to schedule your child’s summer check-up while school’s out, simple fill in the form below! Have a happy and safe summer break!