Healthy Snacks

Sugar contributes to the formation of cavities. Frequency of eating sugary foods increases the risk of tooth decay.

Every time a food containing sugar is eaten, an acid attack begins. Acid destroys the enamel thus causing cavities.

• Plaque + Suger = Acid

• Acid + Tooth = Decay

An acid attack may last about 20 minutes. Therefore, the frequent intake of sweets causes the most damage. The physical form of the food effects the length of the acid attack. Sticky sweets remain on tooth surfaces for prolonged periods of time, resulting in repeated or longer duration acid attack.

Activities

1. List healthy foods from A to Z using the guideline which follows.

2. Cut through an apple with a sharp knife. Using a different knife cut through a marshmallow. Compare the knives; one is relatively clean, one is sticky. Discuss how different types of foods adhere to teeth and contribute to decay.

3. Have children create a bulletin board display of sugar-free, healthy snacks.

4. Plan a party serving only healthy foods using the recipes found on February 15.

5. Have children prepare simple nutritious snacks using the recipes found on
February 15.

Activities

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