10 Summertime Foods With Lots of Sugar (And What to Give Kids Instead)

Summer's here, and from ice cream trucks to backyard barbecues, sweet treats are everywhere! So, as a parent, it’s crucial to know what summertime foods contain lots of sugar and can negatively impact your kids' oral health. What summer foods contain lots of sugar? Here, the Park Dentistry for Kids dentists, Dr. Parker and Dr. Sana, dive into ten common summertime foods that have a lot of added sugar and offer healthier alternatives.

Everyone loves this frozen treat in the summer (and, let’s be honest, year-round!), but ice cream is often loaded with added sugar. Your board-certified, Houston pediatric dentists recommend moderation.

Try instead: Homemade frozen yogurt with fresh fruit.

Hands down, soda is one of the worst drinks for your teeth. Why? Soda’s high added sugar content contributes to tooth decay and the acidity can weaken tooth enamel.

Try instead: Sparkling water with no added sugar.

Store-bought popsicles can contain added sugars that stick to teeth and contribute to tooth decay and cavities. This 2019 study showed that popsicles made of grape, pineapple, and orange juices caused a greater drop in the pH of saliva (aka, a more acidic oral environment) compared to what happens with juices. So, it seems popsicles are even more potentially harmful to teeth than juice. Plus, holding popsicles in the mouth prolongs acid exposure.

Try instead:  Homemade popsicles using blended fruits and minimal or no added sweeteners.

Surprising but true: the sugar content in ketchup, including Heinz, is significant. On average, a tablespoon of ketchup has about four grams of added and natural sugars. Considering how much ketchup you might eat in one sitting, it adds up to a lot of sugar!

Try instead: Making your own sugar-free ketchup.

Barbecue sauce is one of those foods with added sugar that you might not initially think of. Store-bought barbecue sauce usually has 4-6 grams of sugar per tablespoon.

Try instead: A homemade BBQ sauce like this one so you can control the sugar.

Store-bought lemonade is often packed with sugar. And the acidity can contribute to enamel erosion.

Try instead: Lemon water without sugar.

Also one of the worst drinks for your teeth? Energy drinks. They’re both extremely sugary and acidic, a one-two punch that weakens your kiddo’s tooth enamel. Energy drinks can also contribute to hyperactivity that can lead to teeth grinding, an activity which can crack or damage teeth. They’re one of the foods to avoid in the summer — and any time of year.

Try instead: Water. Plain and simple!

They have the word “fruit” in them, so it must be healthy for your kids, right? Nope. First, they’re gummy, meaning their sugars can be extra sticky on your child’s teeth. Plus, many fruit snacks contain minimal real fruit content so they don’t offer much nutrition for those developing teeth and gums.

Try instead: Yummy seasonal berries and other fruits.

Some flavored yogurts can contain as much sugar as a candy bar. You can easily find 4-6 teaspoons of sugar in a 6-ounce portion.

Try instead: Plain Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey and fresh berries. This treat has much less sugar and contains vitamins and minerals for building strong, healthy teeth and gums.

Many well-known cereals marketed to kids come with a lot of sugar. This list of popular breakfast cereals shows where your kiddo’s favorite stacks up when it comes to sugar. 

Try instead:  Whole grain cereals with no added sugar or low sugar with fresh fruit like sliced bananas, berries, or strawberries.

The gist of choosing summer treats while maintaining kids' healthy teeth? It’s not about eliminating all sugary foods but about balance. Balance eating foods with sugar by eating lots of fresh, whole foods high in vitamins and minerals. And enjoy the sweet stuff in moderation. 

Always, always ensure your child drinks plenty of water to help wash away sugars and food particles and maintain healthy saliva levels. And don’t forget the power of excellent oral hygiene! 

Have more questions about sweet summer treats and your child’s oral health? Make an appointment for your next check-up and cleaning with your Houston pediatric dentist and ask away! Education is an important part of your child’s oral health. Dr. Parker and Dr. Sana love teaching and encouraging our young patients on how best to care for their smiles. You and your child will feel welcome and comfortable in our kid-friendly, relaxing environment.