Lunch Box Woes

Adelberg Montalvan Pediatric Dental and Orthodontics

www.adelbergpediatricdental.com

As we get back into the full swing of the school year, packing lunches can be a hassle in the morning. It's always easier to grab something quick and prepackaged while you try and get yourself and your household ready for the day.

Next time you go food shopping, try and avoid picking those prepackaged snacks up. Not only are they bad for your child's teeth, but they aren't too healthy in general.

Not sure what we're talking about? See below for the top 5 WORST snacks in your child's lunch, courtesy of SkinnyMom.com:

• Potato Chips - any major brand is fried in oil with added preservatives. Try making your own healthy homemade chips (like Kale or Sweet Potato) or purchasing an all natural / whole grain brand if some kind of chip is craved
• Fruit Snacks or Gummies - one of the worst snacks for your teeth, these snacks are sticky and high and sugar and easily get stuck around your teeth
• Cracker Packs - We've already explained why crackers are bad for your teeth, but again these snacks are processed with preservatives and ingredients your child doesn't need to be ingesting
• Packaged Cakes - These are deserts, not snacks and regardless they are filled with sugar, high fructose corn syrups, preservatives and dyes
• Juice Boxes - So much sugar! Encourage your child to drink water, even add some fresh fruit slices to give it more of a taste

Looking for healthier substitutes? Hummus & Vegetables, Nut Butter and Apples, Air-popped Popcorn, Fresh Fruit, Sweet Potato Chips, Cheese Slices are some options. What substitutes have you planned to make this year? Share with us on our Facebook page!

For more examples of Healthy School Lunches visit Parents.com.