Most parents go out of their way to ensure that their child has access to healthy foods and drinks throughout the day. The problem is that some snacks and beverages marketed as “healthy for children” may not be as good for them as you’ve been led on to believe. In fact, in a study conducted by UConn Rudd Center for Food Policy and Obesity, they found that 62 percent of beverages sold to parents that were marketed for children contained added sweeteners. Read on to learn four “healthy foods” that you should avoid purchasing to keep your child’s mouth cavity-free from a pediatric dentist.
4 Foods Marketed as “Healthy” That Can Be Bad For Developing Smiles
Throughout the schoolyear, you probably go out of your way to ensure that your child has healthy snacks on them, so they never feel hungry. Although it can be tempting to take a product’s packaging as the truth and toss it in your cart, it’s always important to look at the nutritional facts label first. Here are some foods and drinks that you’ll want to double-check the nutritional facts before packing it in your child’s lunchbox.
Granola
Most people consider granola a healthier alternative to sugary cereal. The truth is, many brands of granola contain higher amounts of sugar and fat, which can cause serious problems for your child’s developing mouth. The added sugars can lead to an increased risk of dental decay, while the higher calorie count can cause your child to get hungrier, faster.
Sports Drinks
Many drinks that are advertised to provide your child with extra vitamins and minerals may not be good for them at all. Most of these beverages contain more than the recommended daily amount of sugar for adults, nonetheless children. While flavored drinks may taste delicious, it’s better to fill a reusable bottle with water, which contains no calories or added ingredients that are bad for their oral health.
Trail Mix
Trail mix is a popular go-to snack because it’s often a good source of protein. However, some types of children’s trail mix can include unhealthy levels of saturated fats and sugar, especially blends that have candy in them. Be sure to choose the flavors of trail mix that don’t contain added ingredients that can increase their risk of cavities.
Dried Fruit
Many parents are shocked to learn that dried fruit should be avoided when it comes to your child’s oral health. As opposed to regular, fresh fruit, dried fruit contains much more sugar and sticks to their teeth, exposing their pearly whites to the harmful substance for longer. Instead, choose fresh fruit.
Protecting Your Child’s Teeth Against Common Oral Health Problems
The best way to protect your child’s growing teeth from harmful substances that can cause cavities and gum disease to develop is to be sure to read the nutritional facts label on the back of each package. Also, be sure to get your child into a good oral hygiene routine of brushing twice each day and flossing every day. Make sure that your child understands the importance of doing this, so they have the tools and knowledge they need to maintain a healthy and happy smile into adulthood.
About the Author
Dr. Lily is a board-certified pediatric dentist as well as a parent. She understands how important it is that growing children receive the highest quality of preventive treatment and gentle care. She focuses on providing each of her small patients with the education and tools they need to keep their smiles healthy and happy. For questions or to schedule a routine checkup and cleaning for your child, visit Shiny Smiles Pediatric Dentistry’s website or call 469-925-0861.