Sports Drinks:
Here we are post pandemic with youth sports back in full swing! You’ve got your cheering hat on and surely your kids mouth-piece in hand. Any parent knows, it’s important to keep your child hydrated throughout the game, so on your way to the game, you stop by your local corner store and see a variety of hydration options. A common question we often receive from parents is “Should my kid drink *insert any sugary sports drink brand*?
If you find yourself asking this, keep reading to find out the facts!
Sports Drinks Can Cause Cavities
While sports drinks can be helpful for children playing intense sports for a very long time, in most cases, children can be just as hydrated by WATER!
Sports drinks have high amounts of sugar (1 12 oz Gatorade has nearly all the sugar your child should consume in one day!). The high amounts of sugar can cause the teeth to breakdown.
Th average sports drink has pH of 3-4 which is similar to the pH of citric acid or vinegar. SUGAR + ACID = TEETH BREAKDOWN!
Sipping The Sports Drink During the Game is Harmful
While sports drinks should not be the main source of hydration, it can be tough to eliminate cold-turkey from your child’s diet. It is actually better for your child to consume the sports drink all in one setting followed by rinsing with water, than to sip on them throughout the day. Bathing the teeth constantly in the sugary, acidic liquid softens the outer layer (enamel) of your child’s teeth and start the tooth breakdown process.
Some ways to lessen the negative effects are to:
- Have your child rinse with water after consuming sports drinks
- Choose low/no sugar alternatives for sports drinks
- Use straws to reduce the amount of drink in direct contact with the teeth
What should I give my child instead of a sports drink?
WATER! Yep, good ol’ H-2-O.
Water is still the best hydration before, during and after a game for children and adolescents. Click HERE to read other tooth-friendly swaps your child will love!
