Whether you are packing up snacks for a family trip or need a boost of energy during a break from work, making smart snack choices is good for your teeth as well as your overall health and wellness. Our Providence Dental Spa team has compiled a list of our favorite snacks that will be tough on your hunger, but not your teeth.
- Carrots, Celery, and Apples—According to the CDC, only 1 in 10 adults actually eat enough fruits or vegetables. The recommended portions are 1 ½-2 cups of fruit and 2-3 cups of vegetables daily. By choosing these fresh choices, you can prioritize a balanced diet and help clean your teeth at the same time. Carrots, celery, and apples have a great texture to give your teeth an extra brushing while you are snacking. Also, your body will appreciate the punch of vitamins to encourage overall wellness and support your healthy immune system.
- Yogurt and Cheese—The American Heart Association recommends 3 servings of dairy per day. Dairy provides a beneficial boost of calcium and protein. The calcium boost is beneficial for your smile as it helps repair and strengthen your teeth. The protein will fill you up between meals to help you avoid unhealthy snack attacks. If you need a quick option on the go, yogurt tubes and string cheese are great grab and go choices. Keep an eye on the sugar content of your yogurt though because excess sugar will be problematic for your teeth. Generally, Greek yogurts have all the benefits of regular yogurt with considerably less sugar. Plain Greek yogurt could even be turned into a ranch dip to go with those carrot sticks.
- Almonds—Similar to cheese and dairy, almonds deliver protein and calcium right where you need it. Your teeth will be able to rebuild more easily with proper calcium intake. Almonds can also help you lower your cholesterol, regulate your blood pressure, lose weight, and more! There are even almond varieties with cocoa dusting to help satisfy your sweet tooth without turning to a candy bar. Cocoa roasted almonds have very little sugar, so they are still a sensible snack choice.
Smart snacking can help you develop a healthier lifestyle and a better smile. Besides your snack choices, a daily oral health regimen and regular dental checkups will keep your teeth looking and feeling great. Schedule your dental checkup at Providence Dental Spa today!