Whether you are just starting your fitness journey or are a seasoned professional, routine training, clean eating, and lots of hydration are crucial. Since successful athletes and influencers alike are often spotted with their favorite energy/sports drink in hand, you may be wondering if you should do the same this summer. After all, if they are drinking it, then it must be good for you too, right?
Unfortunately, the research says otherwise. In fact, most energy/sports drinks can wreak havoc on your teeth and lead to serious concerns for your oral health. Your dentist shares three reasons to opt for water instead this summer.
Energy/Sports Drinks Contain Citric Acid
According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, 31% of young adults consume sports drinks at least weekly. While these beverages can help boost energy and replenish your body with electrolytes, they also contain a high amount of citric acid. This preservative may improve its shelf life and enhance its flavor, but it is equally as powerful in stripping the enamel from your teeth. Unfortunately, this can lead to tooth decay, cavities, and a multitude of other dental issues that can be costly to repair. Therefore, it is crucial to the integrity and health of your teeth that you opt for a refreshing glass of water instead!
Energy/Sports Drinks Are High in Sugar
When sugar interacts with the bacteria in your mouth, it creates acids that can cause bad breath, cavities, and tooth decay. Researchers and dentists have warned patients to stay away from substances that are high in sugar, like soda, to preserve their healthy, white smile. However, many people fail to take note of just how much sugar is in their energy or sports drinks. In fact, a 32-ounce sports drink contains between 56-76 grams of sugar (roughly 14-19 teaspoons!). To protect your teeth, sip on water throughout the day to stay healthy, hydrated, and energized.
Energy/Sports Drinks Don’t Measure Up to Water
Although it doesn’t have all the pizzazz that the sugary drinks do, water still beats out every other beverage on the market when it comes to your health. The next time you think of reaching for an energy drink, remember that water:
- Helps with saliva production (which assists in the mineralization process of fighting tooth decay).
- Cleans teeth of food particles and debris.
- Keeps your body hydrated and functioning optimally.
- Flushes out toxins from your system.
Although delicious, both energy and sports drinks do not serve your oral health. To ensure that you stay on track to achieving all your fitness and healthy lifestyle goals, make sure to reach for water this summer!
About the Author
In addition to graduating with honors from the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill School of Dentistry, Dr. Christine D. Laster also received the highly sought after Diagnosis and Treatment Planning Award. For the past two decades, Dr. Laster has used her extensive experience and impressive skill to provide world-class dentistry to the community of Raleigh, NC. If you have any questions about preserving your oral health, don’t hesitate to visit her website or give her a call at 919-787-0355.