Smoothies are extremely fashionable these days, especially at this time of year when many people are resolving to get healthier, do more exercise and lose a few inches from around the waist. On the surface, smoothies sound great; packed full of fruit and the occasional vegetable, what’s not to love? However, if you’re au fait with health news or you like to flick through the newspapers regularly, you may have noticed articles about the potential oral health dangers of drinking fruit juices and smoothies. So are smoothies really that bad and what can you drink to keep your smile shining bright?
What’s so bad about smoothies?
The idea behind smoothies is definitely positive. They are usually marketed as healthy products, which have far more nutritional benefits than fizzy pop and cordial and this is true in almost all cases. However, the problem lies in the sugar content. Analysis shows that some shop-bought smoothies have as much sugar in them as biscuits, cans of fizzy pop and sugar-coated breakfast cereals. These articles in the media, which stem from scientific research, have raised concerns that people are buying these drinks believing that they are doing their body a massive favour, when actually they are consuming a large amount of sugar.
Sugar is the tooth’s worst enemy because it contributes to enamel wear. The enamel coating is the outer layer of the tooth, which is responsible for protecting the living tissue inside the tooth. Once the enamel is worn and thin, there is no means of rebuilding it and the tooth is susceptible to damage, decay and oral infections.
Are there any healthy smoothies?
Smoothies have benefits for your health. Fruit and vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals and fibre and they are really important for maintaining good health. The problem with smoothies is that they are not the healthiest way if ensuring you get your 5 a day. If you love a smoothie and you can’t bear to start your day without one, the best thing to do is invest in a food mixer and make your own smoothies at home. If you make your own, you are in control of what you put in and the only sugars in your drink will be those found naturally in the fruits.
Healthy drinks for your teeth
Statistics show that many of the most popular drinks in the UK are ‘bad’ for the teeth. Fizzy drinks, energy drinks and fruit juices all contain a lot of sugar and beverages, such as white and red wine, coffee and tea contribute to discolouration of the teeth.
The best drinks for your teeth are water and milk. Water helps to swill away bacteria and food debris and it also reduces acidity in the mouth. Milk is an excellent source of calcium, which is extremely important for maintaining strong and healthy bones and teeth.
Other tips for maintaining good oral health
As well as steering clear of sugary treats and acidic drinks, there are some other very simple steps you can take to boost your oral health. Always remember to brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time, wait an hour after eating until you brush and floss regularly. Make sure you keep up to date with your Sensu dental checks and consider seeing a dental hygienist once a year for a deep clean; not only will this reduce your risk of gum disease and decay, it will also remove stains and make your teeth look whiter and brighter.
Recent Comments