Halloween has passed but your kids probably still have their stash. This, however, was just the beginning. It’s not even Thanksgiving yet, and we are seeing the desserts, candies and cookies popping up at the office and sampled at the grocery store. Just wait until Christmas parties commence. If you’re wondering how to limit sugary foods during the holidays, keep reading.
How to Limit Sugary Foods During the Holidays
Opportunities to consume sugary foods become more concentrated during the year-end holidays, which can lead to increased risk for tooth decay and gum disease, especially in younger children. Here are a few ideas to help you limit sugary foods during the holidays:
- Plan ahead – If you know there will be sugary temptations at your next party or donuts brought into work, bring a less sugary (but still sweet) snack with you that will keep you from being tempted to down two glazed donuts.
- Keep fruit handy – While fruit does have sugar, it’s not the processed kind. If you’ve suddenly found yourself tempted to eat the entire plate of cookies your neighbor brought you, try eating a piece of fruit first. Still want cookies? Eat one and put the rest out of sight.
- Freeze your goodies – Freezing your sweets is a fantastic way to limit mindless snacking while saving it for those times when you REALLY want something sweet.
- Make a smoothie – Frozen fruit whirred up, possibly with some veggies, is a great healthy sweet snack.
- Chew on sugar-free gum – Or try sweetening your coffee with xylitol.
Be sure to always brush your teeth after eating or snacking, especially for those times that you do indulge in an occasional cookie or sweet, and don’t forget to see your dentist twice a year for a routine cleaning!