The California Dental Association (CDA) is encouraging parents and children to "rethink your drink" before consuming a sugary sports drink or juice during fall sports and school this fall.
Water is adequate for most hydration needs, and the need for more than water to rehydrate during or after an activity is minimal, said CDA President Lindsey Robinson, DDS, a pediatric dentist. A 32-ounce sports drink can contain up to 14 teaspoons of sugar, while a 20-ounce soda often has more than 16 teaspoons of sugar.
If someone does want to drink a sweetened beverage, consuming it with a meal can limit exposure time to your teeth, Dr. Robinson noted.
The CDA advises choosing water or low-fat milk over sugar-laden drinks such as soda, juice, fruit punch, energy drinks, or sports drinks. Drinking water also can help keep gums hydrated and rinse away food particles that would otherwise stay in the mouth, aiding in the bacterial growth that causes decay.
