SPORTS DRINKS CAN HARM YOUR TEETH
Sports drinks are usually associated with the active lifestyle of high-performance athletes but research has shown that it can be bad for your teeth if you drink these beverages on a regular basis .
The purpose of sports drinks is to rehydrate athletes and to replace electrolytes during or after strenuous exercise . Unfortunately , the high sugar content and acidic nature of sports drinks can lead to tooth decay , enamel erosion and overall oral health issues :
• Sugar helps harmful bacteria grow in your mouth , leading to plaque , which can cause cavities
• The high citric acid content in sports drinks can also wear away the protective enamel layer of your teeth , making them more sensitive and susceptible to damage
• May contribute to the discolouration of dental fillings and teeth
Limit sports drinks
Water is the best choice for staying hydrated most of the time because it does not contain sugar or acid .
To protect your teeth , it is important to limit your intake of sports drinks , especially when you are not doing intense physical activity . Instead of sipping on sports drinks over a period , it is better to consume them in one sitting and then rinse your mouth with water to help neutralise the acidic environment .
Choosing sugar-free or low-sugar sports drink options can also reduce the risk to your oral health .
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Bonitas Member Magazine Issue 1 / 2024