Sports drinks are often marketed to kids and touted as hydrating, electrolyte-replenishing beverages that help young athletes recover faster. But water may be a much healthier drink choice. Below, learn more about why dentists typically recommend water instead of sports drinks for kids.

Ingredients

One of the biggest downsides of sports drinks is their high sugar content. A 32-ounce sports drink contains 56 to 76 grams of sugar, which is equal to 14 to 19 teaspoons—up to six times the daily recommended amount for children. As a comparison, that's even more than a 12-ounce can of Coca-Cola, which contains 39 grams of sugar. Sugar is a leading contributor to tooth decay, resulting in cavities and the need for fillings, crowns, and more frequent visits to the dentist.

Another factor that sports drinks have to go against them is the acid they contain. Most have large amounts of citric acid as a preservative. Citric acid wreaks havoc on the teeth by eroding protective enamel, increasing sensitivity to hot and cold foods, and making teeth more vulnerable to decay.

Advantages of Water

Water contains no sugar and no acid, which is why dentists recommend it for active young people. Water doesn't raise a child's blood glucose and insulin levels, unlike sports drinks; higher insulin triggers the body into storing fat that can lead to obesity and other health issues. Water also helps keep the teeth rinsed and prevents staining; it washes away bacteria that cause bad breath; and it is a good source of fluoride, which strengthens the teeth.

That said, an occasional sports drink likely won't harm a child. These drinks can replenish lost electrolytes, carbohydrates, and calories when a child has engaged in rigorous physical activity for an hour or more. Just be sure that the child waits at least 30 minutes before brushing their teeth after consuming a sports drink as the acids can soften enamel. An immediate brushing can essentially spread the acids further across and into the teeth. And sports drinks should never replace water as your child's default beverage after exercise.

Drinking water instead of sports drinks will help your child maintain their oral health. Routine, twice-yearly visits to the dentist are another important component of good oral care. Susan Kleier, DMD, has been treating patients throughout the Lexington, KY, area since 1987. She sees patients of all ages and offers a comprehensive range of services, including exams, teeth cleaning and whitening, veneers, and dental implants. Call (859) 225-1188 or visit her website to schedule an appointment.