A nutritious meal at lunchtime isn’t just important to give your child an energy boost to finish out their school day – it can make a big difference in their overall and oral health.
If you’re concerned about expenses, packing a healthy lunch doesn’t have to be costly. Here are a few ideas to help fill your child’s lunchbox with tooth-friendly snacks that won’t break the bank.
Picking the Right Snacks
Choose bacteria fighters. Crunchy vegetables like celery, apples or carrots require more chewing which produces increased saliva which is used to attack bacteria in your child’s mouth.
Sneak in Vitamin C. Adequate Vitamin C intake is important for a healthy immune system and our overall health, but it also plays a part in keeping gums healthy. Why not opt for an orange!
Say no to juice. Instead of packing a juice box in your child’s lunch, consider a small water bottle or milk. Water is great for rinsing away debris as well as keeping your child hydrated, and milk is packed full of calcium which is essential for healthy bones. Bonus tip—cheese is another great way to get calcium into your child’s lunch – chop a block into cubes for fun, bite-sized snacks.
Foods high in sugar are a particularly common cause of tooth decay. You needn’t avoid them altogether, but making them a treat rather than a staple will help protect your teeth for years to come. Ensure you are adding foods low in sugar to your regular meal plan to increase both your child’s general health and that of their teeth.
If your child purchases their lunch at school, talk with them about making healthy choices for their teeth and overall wellness, and don’t forget to schedule their next appointment with us for a thorough review of their oral health and hygiene.
To make an appointment simply contact the team at Essential Dental today on 8251 7677.
