As many health enthusiasts will tell you, water is the best fluid to drink. But some people who pump iron, run, cycle, or include other rigorous activities in their daily lifestyle fuel their activities with ample amounts of energy drinks. Over the past 20 years, these colorful beverages have gained tremendous popularity with athletes and people who need a midday pick-me-up.
The good news for teens and adults who drink products like Monster, Red Bull, Rockstar, and others is there are plenty of options. The bad news is they are unhealthy for you and your teeth.
Why Energy Drinks Are Unhealthy
The components that put the oomph in these beverages are various stimulants, including high amounts of caffeine, leading to increased alertness and attentiveness.
Unfortunately, these stimulants also jack up your heart rate and increase your blood pressure. There have been instances where young teens have essentially overdosed on energy drinks, bringing on a cardiac event.
In addition, energy drinks disrupt healthy sleep patterns, which may make people struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep all night after drinking these beverages day after day.
Energy Drinks, Enamel Damage, Tooth Decay
The acidic pH in energy drinks is so stout it can increasingly erode tooth enamel, the protective layer that keeps your teeth shielded from dangerous bacteria. This problem may cause dental issues like tooth sensitivity or root damage.
Energy drinks may also contribute to tooth decay and cavities. The consequences can be severe because it’s impossible to replace lost enamel.
Sports Drinks, Energy Drinks, and Oral Health
Sports and energy drinks are similar to sodas in affecting your teeth. Both beverage types have a high sugar content and extremely acidic pH.
Sugar attracts bacteria, which go into overdrive when introduced to your mouth. And the byproduct of sugar is acid. When this acid contacts tooth enamel for extended periods, it weakens teeth.
All energy drinks, even those with limited sugar content, have an extremely low pH. Their high acidity can increase your risk of tooth decay and cavities with regular consumption.
Why Are Natural Energy Drinks a Better Alternative?
If you enjoy consuming energy drinks, you should consider healthier alternatives to protect your oral health.
Green Smoothies and Juices
Make green juices using kale, parsley, and spinach. They are natural sources of vitamin B that aid your body’s performance.
Green Tea
Green tea naturally contains trace amounts of caffeine. Green tea also has health benefits and can help lower your risk of cancer and heart disease, while improving your performance and mental clarity.
Water
Water is the most effective energy drink. However, your metabolic reactions slow down when you’re dehydrated, resulting in lower energy levels. Spice up your glass of water by adding lemon, lime, cucumber, strawberries, or blueberries.
Caring for Your Oral Health in Austin
Addressing your dental concerns before they become significant problems is the top priority at Hill Country Oral Surgery. To learn more about oral health and brilliant white teeth, schedule a dental assessment by calling us at (512) 327-7233 or contact us online.
