FRUIT IS AN IMPORTANT PART of a child’s diet, but some fruit options may not be as good for their teeth as you think. Here’s a few items to look out for the next time you give them a snack:
Squeezable Fruit Pouches
Squeezable, pureed fruit pouches are becoming a popular option for parents looking to give their kids a healthy snack on the go. Despite often being labeled as all natural and being a good source of vitamins and minerals, these fruit pouches are also packed with sugar. Some flavors contain as much as 20 grams of sugar—that’s nearly a full-day’s worth of sugar for the average adult! Constant exposure to this much sugar could wear away tooth enamel and put a child at greater risk of cavities.
Dried Fruit
Dried fruits can be a good source of vitamins to supplement your child’s diet. Dried fruit snacks like raisins, dates, and figs are easy to pack in a lunch and contain large servings of fruit in a small package. However, they are also sweet and sticky—not always the best combination for your teeth. The sugars in dried fruit tend to stick to tooth surfaces for a long period of time, which can lead to tooth decay.
Fruit Juice
Fruit juice can be a good source of nutrients when included in a balanced diet. However, too much juice can be harmful to a child’s smile. When fruit is juiced, much of the nutritious pulp and fiber is removed, leaving behind mostly water and natural sugars. Between the high sugar content and natural acidity of most juices, drinking too much can wear down enamel over time.
Fruit Snacks Should Be Enjoyed In Moderation
Fruits and vegetables are an important part of a balanced diet—regardless of our age. It’s good to keep in mind that all of these snack options can provide nutritional benefit to your child if enjoyed in moderation. When choosing a healthy snack for your family, fresh whole fruits are always the best options. [youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZZ539RtqPb8?rel=0&w=543&h=305]
We Want To Help Keep Your Child’s Smile Bright
Practicing good dental hygiene is essential to keeping your child’s smile healthy and bright. Remember to help them brush and floss regularly and to rinse after snacking to help keep their teeth clean. If you have questions about healthy snacks for your child’s smile, let us know! We would love to help you find good options that can benefit not only their dental health, but overall health as well!
