Hansel and Gretel Could Have Gone Healthier

Our holiday preparations are well underway, and for many, one of those preparations is constructing a tasty little housing structure. Yes, that’s right – it’s time to build ourselves a gingerbread house, the crown jewel of any holiday cookie feast. There is no particular way to build a cookie home, but they are generally covered in the sweetest confections available. The problem is, if you actually eat it, it can wreak havoc on your teeth.

Have you ever thought about a “teeth-friendly” version of this cookie castle? Sound impossible? Take a look at these tips to turn your gingerbread house into a holiday home sure to make everyone smile.

Instead of choosing gingerbread for the walls and roof, try using graham crackers. There are many variations to choose from, making it a more versatile option for you and your family’s taste. When gluing your pieces together, mix 2 egg whites with 2 ½ cups of icing sugar and apply generously with an icing bag.

Here’s where the tough part begins – the décor. We all love to see the sugary gumdrops and colorful hard candies covering every wall. It adds your personal touch. But rather than using just cavity-causing candies, why not take a healthier approach. Try almond flakes for rooftop shingles, dried fruits and nuts for the little details and banana chips or pretzels for landscape work.

The holidays are a time to indulge in the sweetness the season brings, but adding some simple healthy tweaks can make your next dental visit a little sweeter.