Hilgers Pediatric Dentistry, supporting National Nutrition Month

Remember a couple of weeks back, when we blogged about February being National Children's Dental Health Month? Well, March marks National Nutrition Month, and Dr. Kelly Hilgers, as well as thousands of dentists and hygienists, want you to think diabetes, obesity and periodontal disease, and how healthful eating and physical activity may improve your child's periodontal health.

Small changes really can make a big difference, and the American Dietetic Association (ADA) has some advice on ways to start improving your child's diet:

• Focus on fruits and vegetables: Add a serving each day to one meal and increase it every few weeks. Adding more of these foods into your child's diet is important whether you buy frozen, fresh or organic.

• Think local: From farmer’s markets to community-supported agriculture, you have many options to find new, fresh foods in Goodyear and surrounding communities.

• Make your calories count: When you are choosing between options, focus instead on the one with more of the vitamins and nutrients your child needs. Sometimes, foods with fewer calories just aren’t always the healthiest options.

• Expand your and your child's horizons: Try a fish you’ve never eaten before or find a new vegetable recipe. By testing yourself, you might find new health favorites to add to your regular grocery list.

If you have additional questions about periodontal disease or keeping your child's mouth healthy, please call Hilgers Pediatric Dentistry today at (623) 536-0079.