Planning a Healthy Spring Break Picnic

After a long, cold winter, it’s finally springtime! This spring break, we recommend getting outside, soaking up some sun, and enjoying a healthy picnic with your family and friends. Here at Garlock Orthodontics, we want to recommend a few mouth-healthy foods to include in your picnic basket.

Healthy Spring Break Picnic

Below are a few great additions to your spring picnic basket:

• Veggies – If you’re looking for a healthier dipping alternative to chips and crackers, turn to carrots, sliced bell peppers, and celery. In addition to being much healthier for your body, the fibrous veggies are able to clean your teeth as you chew them! Starchier foods will stick to the teeth, causing dental cavities and tooth decay.
• Greek Yogurt – Greek yogurt is a superfood! Non-fat Greek yogurt contains much less sugar and fat than other types of yogurt. Additionally, yogurt contains both protein and calcium, which can strengthen the teeth. To spice up your Greek yogurt, add some strawberries or blueberries for flavor and extra antioxidants.
• Cheese Plate – Cheese is great for your teeth. This is because it contains calcium (which strengthens the teeth) as well as casein, a protein that helps to protect the tooth enamel. Cheese can also increase saliva production, which helps rid the teeth of the cavity-causing bacteria.
• Apples – If you have a sweet tooth, we suggest packing a few sliced apples as a healthier dessert. The texture of the apples will help to scrub away any leftover food debris from in between your teeth. Apples are also high in fiber and water, both of which help to keep gums healthy and increase saliva production.
• Water – Lastly, any time you’re spending time outdoors it’s important to stay hydrated. Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water instead of juice or soda. Swishing water around your mouth can also help to remove food debris when you’re done eating.

Here at Garlock Orthodontics, we want to wish all of our patients a safe and happy spring break. To make an appointment at our office, please contact Garlock Orthodontics located here in Aurora, Colorado.