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Q: Are these so-called sports drinks okay for kids' teeth?
A: Sports drinks, some researchers say, serve a beneficial role in some circumstances. Consumed during or after an intense workout of an hour or more, a child may take in more fluid with a sports drink than if offered water alone. But the fact is that most sports drinks are essentially sugar water with electrolytes added. And kids don't really need supplemental electrolytes. They get plenty in food. Sugary sports drinks are tough on teeth, too.
It varies by brand, but generally a 20-ounce bottle of a sports drink contains about 10 teaspoons of sugar and 130 calories. When sipped over a long period, sports drinks can do more damage to enamel than a carbonated cola product, research has shown. Any sugary drink will have a corrosive effect on enamel, especially if it is sipped through the course of a day. The American Dental Association continues to recommend that we drink 8 to 12 glasses of water a day to stay hydrated. And if the water is fluoridated, it also fights tooth decay. Ask your dentist for tips on diet-drinks and solid food-that are most conducive to oral and general health.
February 1, 2010
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