The summer weather’s creeping in, and a favorite way to cool off while satisfying your sweet tooth is to reach in the freezer for a frozen dessert or treat. Of course, too much sugar can lead to several health issues, including tooth decay. Here are a few ways to enjoy a delicious frozen treat without putting your teeth at risk.
Yogurt Pops
Dairy products like yogurt, cheese and milk are great sources of calcium, which is a necessary nutrient for healthy teeth. They’re also great saliva generators, which helps protect teeth from decay.
Ingredients:
1 cup yogurt
1 cup either fresh or frozen fruit such as strawberries, blueberries, bananas or peaches
2 tablespoons honey or agave nectar
1 set of 6 popsicle molds (you can also use small paper cups, wooden sticks and aluminum foil)
Directions:
In a blender or a food processor add the fresh or frozen fruit, the honey and the yogurt blending until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Fill each of the popsicle molds 3/4 of the way full, then add the top. Place the mold in the freezer and freeze several hours or until the popsicles are frozen solid. Remove the tops from the mold and enjoy.
Smoothies
A fruit smoothie is full of calcium, antioxidants and vitamins, and making your own smoothies at home allows you to control the amount of sugar that goes into them. Here’s an easy one:
Ingredients:
2 navel oranges, peel and pith removed, cut into chunks
1 cup frozen blueberries
Just add all ingredients together in the blender, blend until smooth and enjoy!