Advantages vs Risks of sports drinks
- Sports drinks encourage you to drink more fluid than plain water does helping adequate rehydration.
- Sugar and acid in sports drinks can cause your teeth to wear away and become yellow at a younger age.
- Carbohydrate rich foods are far better than soft drinks to replenish lost “energy stores” in muscles and liver.
Minimising the damage of drinks
- Drink plenty of water or milk
- Beware of water filters – don’t use one that takes out fluoride. It’s your best protection against decay.
- Use a straw if you MUST drink these liquids.
- Mineral water is less damaging to your teeth than soft drinks.
- Diet soft drink may not have the harmful sugars but will usually have harmful acid.
The Coke controversy: Soft drinks and teeth
Coca-Cola recently (April 2009) published corrective advertising in newspapers across the country about its ‘myth-busting’ campaign following action by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission. The press release from the ACCC on 2 April 2009 stated “Coke’s messages were totally unacceptable, creating an impression which is likely to mislead that Coca-Cola cannot contribute to weight gain, obesity and tooth decay. They also had the potential to mislead parents about the potential consequences of consuming Coca Cola.” Consumers can visit The Australian Government’s website, www.healthyactive.gov.au – click on “Healthy Weight”, which has tips and information on physical health and nutrition.
Read more from the ADA Victorian Branch web site:
ACCC Acts on Coca-Cola Myth-Busting
Health Groups Slam Coca-Cola for Misleading Consumers
Summary of ACCC Outcome
The Truth About Black Cola Drinks and Dental Health
Black Cola Drinks, Oral Health and General Health: An Evidence Based Approach
Drinks and Dental Decay
Your Child’s Diet
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