As your child heads back to the classroom, the foods packed in their lunch or provided from the cafeteria are fuel for their mind and body. Not only are they essential for their general health and school performance, but they are also crucial for their dental health. You don’t want their lunches to leave a lasting mark on their smile throughout the school year. Here are a few tips to keep in mind to promote a healthy smile.
Childhood Nutrition in Schools
Over the last decade, school lunches have gained national attention to promote the health of meals provided for children. Parents, public officials, and lawmakers have raised their voices to make changes to ensure the proper nutrition of young children and adolescents. While this is important, there isn’t much focus on the role school lunches can have on a child’s teeth. Unfortunately, many foods found on cafeteria trays or in lunch boxes are damaging for developing smiles. Thankfully, you can help to safeguard their teeth and gums by making a few changes.
Tips for Healthy School Lunches
School lunches are ideal for families, especially those who have busy schedules. Although the healthiness of the foods on the trays have improved, some can still be damaging to their dental health. You can help to ensure their smile stays healthy by following a few tips.
Chocolate Milk
Chocolate milk is a staple of many school lunches. While it’s best for your child to always drink tap water when possible, the tasty beverage can be hard to resist. Although milk is a great source of calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for strong teeth, it also contains natural and added sugars. If they drink their school milk, it’s best to limit their consumption of sweet treats throughout the day. The same rule should be followed if your child has a juice box or pouch with their lunch.
Canned Fruit
Many sack lunches or those from a cafeteria include canned fruit. Sadly, they are a poor choice for your child’s dental health because they have added sugars, and they can be acidic. Both can weaken your child’s enamel. It’s best to encourage your child to pick fresh fruit and vegetables as a healthy alternative.
Sandwiches
PB & J sandwiches are a favorite for many children; however, bread, jelly, and even nut butter contain sugars that can cling to the teeth and erode the enamel. You can make their sandwiches a bit healthier by choosing a whole-grain bread and an all-natural peanut butter that doesn’t contain any added sugars.
Promote a Healthy Smile
As your child heads back to the classroom, ensure they have everything they need for a healthy smile throughout the school year.
About Dr. Wendy Winarick
Dr. Windy Winarick earned her dental degree from the University of Texas School of Dentistry-Houston. She regularly continues her training to provide modern care for her patients, including children. Ensure your child starts the school year with a healthy smile. Contact our office today for an appointment.