Encouraging children to eat nutritious food can be a challenge, especially when sugary foods and drinks are so appealing and easy to obtain. However, eating a poor diet can have a negative effect on young teeth, so it’s important to be vigilant in helping your children make better food choices. Here are a few surprisingly tasty and healthy alternatives to popular foods and drinks that may be harming your child’s teeth.

1. Ice Cream

Ice cream is a practically irresistible indulgence, especially on hot summer days. While it may seem like there is no acceptable substitute to this beloved treat, here are a few healthy alternatives that can satisfy your sweet tooth:

• Frozen grapes
• Fruit popsicles
• Pureed frozen banana sprinkled with nuts
• Frozen applesauce
• Watermelon

Each of these alternatives is surprisingly refreshing and satisfying, even for the most adamant ice cream enthusiast.

2. Candy Bars

Candy bars are packed with sugar that decays the teeth. Thankfully, you don’t have to completely give up chocolate in order to take care of your pearly whites. In fact, there is ongoing debate about whether or not cocoa is good for your teeth due to its high amount of antioxidants. Instead of indulging in a sugar-laden candy bar, try these healthier, cocoa-rich alternatives:

• Cocoa powder mixed with sugar-free yogurt
• Strawberries dipped in dark chocolate
• Hot chocolate made with milk and unsweetened cocoa powder

These healthier options let you get your chocolate fix without consuming large amounts of sugar.

3. Soda

When it comes to beverages, soda is one of the worst choices for your teeth. Try swapping out the destructive beverage with one of these healthier alternatives:

• Water flavored with fruit slices
• Vegetable-fruit juice
• Milk
• Seltzer water

Ditching soda doesn’t have to be an unpleasant experience if you replace it with one of these refreshing alternatives.

Take Care of Your Teeth

While abandoning harmful foods and drinks is a great step toward healthier teeth, it’s also important to visit your dentist regularly for dental checkups. To schedule your appointment with Dr. David McIntyre, call Clear Springs Family Dentistry, in Kyle, TX, conveniently located near Buda, today!