Sports drinks became popular in the 1960’s when a Florida football coach sought to improve hydration and football players’ performance during hot, muggy football practices. In an effort to prevent heat stroke and other related illnesses, researchers came up with a drink that replaced electrolytes bodies lost during extreme sweating. It also replaced the carbohydrates that strenuous exercise depletes in the muscles, resulting in muscle fatigue.
The researchers called the drink “Gatorade”. Later, Gatorade became the official drink of the NFL.
Since that time, lots of sports drinks have hit the market and become very popular among young people today. Manufacturers advertise and sell these beverages to the general public.
Dental Health Problems Associated with Sports Drinks
NHS reported that researchers conducted in a study in South Wales on teenagers between the ages of 12 to 14 to find out whether they drank sports drinks.
Results of the Study
They found that 90 percent consumed sports drinks and nearly 50 percent consumed them at least twice a week. The main reason teenagers consumed them was because they liked the taste (90%). By comparison, about 48 percent said they consumed them for energy and 23 percent consumed them for hydration.
These drinks have high sugar content and high acid levels, and the study found they increased risks for the following;
- Cavities
- Enamel erosion
- Obesity
Most adults and children who aren’t involved in intense athletic activities don’t need sports drinks. Yet, sports drinks and also energy drinks are being marketed to the general population. Since both are high carbohydrate, low pH drinks, they both have the same detrimental affects on dental health.
Watching what you eat and drink can help prevent cavities and other dental problems.
Find Out How We Can Help with Your Dental Care
Hutto Hippo Family Dental provides top-of-the-line dental care and services to families in the Austin area.
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