Childhood Obesity Awareness Month
September is Childhood Obesity Awareness Month. For many parents this is a particularly busy time of year because their kids are returning to school. Moms and dads are faced with the challenge of creating healthy school lunches for their children that they will eat. Any parent of a picky eater knows that this can be a daunting task. When time is limited it can be tempting to buy processed foods that lack nutritional value. We’ve put together a list of healthy lunch and snack ideas that kids will want to eat that also promote good oral health.September is Childhood Obesity Awareness Month. For many parents this is a particularly busy time of year because their kids are returning to school. Moms and dads are faced with the challenge of creating healthy school lunches for their children that they will eat. Any parent of a picky eater knows that this can be a daunting task. When time is limited it can be tempting to buy processed foods that lack nutritional value. We’ve put together a list of healthy lunch and snack ideas that kids will want to eat that also promote good oral health.
Foods that Are Good for Your Teeth
- Apples and Pears are high in water content. The liquid in the fruits dilutes the effects of the sugar they contain and helps to stimulate saliva production
- Water & Milk are better choices than juices and sports drinks, which contribute to tooth decay. If you choose to drink juices, select all natural, no sugar added drinks.
- Cheeses & Nuts are great sources of calcium, protein, and phosphorus which strengthen the enamel on your teeth.
- Carrots & Broccoli are delicious raw and make a wonderful snack for school and work. These veggies are packed with essential vitamins and minerals that are great for your body and teeth.
Today, nearly 1 out of 4 kids and teens are overweight or obese. One of the factors contributing childhood obesity is feeding kids foods with little to no nutritional value. Additionally, poor diets can lead to higher risks of tooth decay and cavities, especially with children. Help your children maintain their oral health by ensuring they are fed healthy food and make sure they have regular visits with their dentist. Are you ready to learn more about how we can help your child have healthy teeth? Call us at 312.943.6444 or contact us online.
Sincerely,
Dr. Ramy Bahu