While soda is often the beverage parents are warned against most often by dentists, it turns out there’s another drink which can also damage children’s teeth: sports drinks. Not only can these sugary beverages wreak havoc on your child’s dental health, but they’re also nutritionally poor. Learn about the implications of sports drinks, along with better alternatives, below.

A Parent’s Guide to the Dangers of Sports Drinks

What Makes Sports Drinks a Bad Choice?

Sports drinks are often hailed among competitive athletes for their high concentration of electrolytes. Yet, most children engaging in sports practices and games aren’t working out hard enough to create a need for these excess nutrients. While endurance athletes such as marathoners may need extra electrolytes – not to mention the carbohydrates and sodium found in these drinks – to refuel, the average youth athlete does not.

Moreover, sports drinks contain ingredients which could contribute to poor dental and overall health. In particular, dentists are wary of the citric acid found in sports drinks, which is known to erode enamel. They’re also high in added sugars, with 3 to 5 teaspoons of sugar per 8-ounce serving. Excess consumption of added sugars has been linked to poor health outcomes, including diabetes and heart disease.

What’s a Healthier Alternative for Sports Practice?

When it comes to keeping your young athlete hydrated during games and practices, water is always the option recommended by dentists and pediatricians alike. As a zero-calorie alternative to sports drinks, water has no added sugars, artificial ingredients, or any other potentially harmful ingredients. It also provides the hydration your child needs to stay healthy. If your athlete craves flavor, you might consider purchasing a diffuser water bottle to incorporate fresh produce, such as sliced cucumbers or berries, into their H2O for a richer taste.

If you’re seeking ways to help your entire maintain optimal dental health, turn to the professionals at Milford Dental in Ohio. This practice has been providing quality oral care services for patients of all ages for more than 40 years. Led by Dr. Johnson, a gentle dentist who prioritizes overall wellbeing in his patients, this office offers a broad range of services to help you achieve a healthy smile both now and into the future. Explore their full range of services online or call (513) 575-9600 to schedule an appointment.