Curbing Food Temptations

Curbing Food Temptations

We always caution that your mouth is the first destination for everything you consume. Meaning, anything you’d be wary about eating for your body’s health, will also have a significant impact on your oral health – think sugars, fats, carbs, etc. And it’s easy to say that you shouldn’t eat something or to stay away from certain food groups, but who are we kidding? If it were that easy, I wouldn’t be craving a donut while writing this. So, let’s work together to curb some of those unhealthy food cravings by finding some satisfying alternatives:

1. Who doesn’t love cookies?!

Ahh cookies… chocolate chip, peanut butter, sugar cookies with sprinkles… sorry, what were we talking about? Oh right, what are some delicious cookie alternatives? Well, believe it or not, there are a plethora of alternative cookie recipes out there for you to choose from. By making small substitutions to the ingredients used, you can still enjoy a delicious treat but with less guilt. 

Try Googling “delicious healthy cookie recipes” and I’m sure you’ll be pleasantly surprised as to what you find. Or, if you’re not the type to bake your own sweets, no problem. With the current emphasis on health in our country, you can find healthy cookies almost anywhere. Next time you’re out and get a cookie craving, stop by a smoothie place and try the vegan cookies they offer (which might not sound appetizing if you’re not vegan, but is actually delicious). Or, a lot of grocery stores cater to healthier choices by having designated healthy aisles – try a box of cookies in one of these aisles instead of going for the Oreos. 

2. Does anyone have any candy?

If you have a sweet tooth, I’m sure you’re no stranger to asking this question. With so many different options, flavors, and textures, candy can be quite tempting (especially when you’re waiting in a grocery store checkout line and the candy is basically begging you to put it on the counter with the rest of your items). But, if something sweet to chew on is the reason behind your candy desires, then hopefully these alternatives will help: 

• Dried fruit – Because the fruit is dehydrated, it’s often sweeter and chewier – making it more comparable to candy. Just try to avoid the ones with added sugar. 
• Homemade candy – I know making candy doesn’t sound like something the average person can do with regular kitchen utensils, but it’s actually not too difficult. For example, by using simple ingredients such as gelatin, fresh fruits, and honey, you can make things such as delicious gummy treats or fruit roll ups. And because you have control over what ingredients you add, you can make it far healthier than store-bought candies. Try Googling “healthy homemade candy”. 

3. We all scream for ice-cream! 

Ice-cream: a classic delicacy and a favorite for many. And while ice-cream has the potential to be a teeth-healthy treat, many commercial brands are high in fat content and added sugar. So, what are the best types of ice-cream you can enjoy while protecting your teeth?

• Homemade Ice-cream – As mentioned above, homemade treats are often better than store-bought ones because you have direct control over the ingredients used. In addition to being a healthier alternative, you have the control to use your favorite ice cream flavors, toppings, etc.; making for a delicious and fun experience. There are tons of recipes on google to check out!
• Try some of the healthier ice-cream brands – More and more brands have adopted using “better” ingredients for the same delicious products; especially in regards to ice cream. Here are just a couple of brands to consider trying:

- Wink Frozen Desserts – if you enjoy Italian ice, then you’re sure to love this    treat. Perks: vegan, gluten-free, nut-free, dairy-free, and plant-based.

- Breyer’s Delights – this ice cream is sure to be a crowd pleaser with the      delicious taste of traditional ice-cream. Perks: low-calorie, high protein, and   no other mix-ins – just flavor and texture. 

- Peekaboo – This ice-cream is not only organic but also contains hidden      veggies like carrots, spinach, and cauliflower in every bite! (You might want   to trick your kids into eating this one)

Sometimes healthier alternatives don’t sound as appetizing as the “real thing”; however, you shouldn’t stray away from trying them. Broadening your pallet by exploring flavors and ingredients that you don’t normally eat is a great way to: deepen your love for food, keep food interesting, and strengthen the relationship between food and your body. Let us know if you have any recommendations of your own!