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.
So which are the worst offenders?
Here’s a sample based on 12 oz or 355mL for equal comparison:
The Top Sugar Offenders
- POM Wonderful 100% Pomegranate Juice: 14 tsp (56g) sugar | 240 calories
- Hawaiian Punch Fruit Juice Red: 14 tsp (56g) sugar | 240 calories
- Starbucks Mint Mocha Chip Frappuccino: 14 tsp (56g) sugar | 360 calories
- Minute Maid Orange Juice: 10 tsp (40g) sugar | 165 calories
- SunnyD Tangy Original Style: 10 tsp (40g) sugar | 180 calories
- Red Bull: 10 tsp (40g) sugar | 165 calories
- Coca-Cola Classic: 10 tsp of sugar | 146 calories
- Gatorade G Orange: 5 tsp (20g) sugar | 90 calories
Why Liquid Sugars Are Extra Harmful
- Constant Bathing: Sipping these drinks over a long time keeps teeth continuously coated in sugar.
- Acid Production: Harmful mouth bacteria feed on these sugars, producing acids that attack tooth enamel.
- Hidden Traps: Natural juices contain vital nutrients but carry just as much liquid sugar as standard sodas.
To protect your teeth, switching to plain water is always the safest bet. If you do enjoy a sugary or acidic drink occasionally, using a straw and rinsing your mouth with water right afterward can help minimize damage.