Isn’t it amazing how much progress we’ve made on our goals this year? It seems like just yesterday that everyone was deciding on their New Year’s resolutions. Many people decided that this will be their year to get healthy. We sign up for a new gym, buy a new reusable water bottle, and dust off the healthy cookbooks. However, the closer we get to summer, the easier it seems to be to give into temptations. Our Brookline dentist has a few suggestions for satisfying your sweet tooth without risking your goals. These options taste great, and support your oral health and nutrition.  

Summer Fruits and Vegetables 

Stocking your kitchen with healthy options is the best way to promote healthy snacking in your home. Wash your fruits and veggies ahead of time, and prepare them into easy snacking-sized containers. Place ripe whole fruits on the counter and cut fruits or crisp veggies on a shelf or drawer in the fridge for the kids to access easily. They are full of essential vitamins, like vitamins A and C, which keep your teeth, bones, and gums strong. Essential vitamins also keep your whole family feeling fuller for longer. These are some of our Brookline dentist team favorites: 

• Cherries  
• Watermelon 
• Strawberries 
• Avocados 
• Plums 
• Melon 
• Bell peppers 
• Cucumbers 
• Tomatoes 
• Berries 
• Peaches 
• Asian Pears 

There are so many summer produce options available to you. Check out your local farmers market or grocery store to find your favorites. Prepare anything that’s not already serving-sized, so it’s good to go! 

Frozen Yogurt and Dairy 

Days spent poolside or at the beach often go hand-in-hand with frozen popsicles and ice cream. It’s fine to treat yourself every once in a while, but be mindful of these added calories, which can easily add up. If you know you’ll be basking in the sun, pack a cooler ahead of time with cheese or yogurt. Frozen yogurt makes for a great fast treat as well. It can satisfy your frozen dairy craving, without the added sugar. 

Other Healthy Options 

It’s common to snack consistently while on road trips or stay-cations. Nuts like pistachios, almonds, and peanuts are all readily available in the summer and easy to eat in the car. Granola, sprouted grain breads, and quinoa will also satisfy some of your food cravings without adding much sugar. By keeping your pantry, fridge, or car stocked with these healthier options, you are setting yourself up for success. 

At our Brookline dentist office, we look forward to all the sweet treats that summer has to offer. Feel free to treat yourself with s’mores, ice cream, or buttered popcorn every once in a while, just remember to be modest. Your body and your smile will both thank you. Remember to brush more often if you indulge in sugary treats, to fight cavities and decay.  

What are your favorite healthy treats? Pop on over to our Facebook page to share how you keep your smile sweet!