As the weather gets nicer out and we spend more time outdoors, we all do our best to stay hydrated with a nice cold drink. Unfortunately, many of the common drinks that we reach for are not only high in calories but contain excessively large amounts of sugar. Regular consumption of these drinks can lead to significant tooth decay, but can also lead to bigger health problems like diabetes and obesity. At our dental clinic, many of our North Delta and Surrey patients who have issues with tooth decay often consume many of these types of drinks on a daily basis.
So which are the worst offenders?
Here’s a sample based on 12 oz or 355mL for equal comparison:
Coca-Cola Classic 146 Calories; 10 tsp of Sugar
Minute Maid Orange Juice 165 Calories; 10 tsp (40g) of Sugar
POM Wonderful 100% Pomegranate Juice 240 Calories; 14 tsp (56g) of Sugar
Hawaiian Punch Fruit Juice Red 240 Calories; 14 tsp (56g) of Sugar
SunnyD Tangy Original Style 180 Calories; 10 tsp (40g) of Sugar
Red Bull 165 Calories; 10 tsp (40g) of Sugar
Gatorade G Orange 90 Calories; 5 tsp (20g) of Sugar
Starbucks Mint Mocha Chip Frappuccino w/ Whipped Cream 360 Calories; 14 tsp (56g) of Sugar
Jamba Juice Mango Peach Topper 375 Calories; 15 tsp (60g) of Sugar
Bear in mind that the Starbucks and Jamba Juice drinks usually come in much larger sizes when we order them!
In the end, nothing beats a refreshing, ice-cold glass of water! Zero calories! Zero sugar!!
source: The Nutrition Source, Harvard School of Public Health http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/how-sweet-is-it/