Healthy Summer Drinks: How Much Do You Know?

iced teaSummer, especially in the southern states, can be harsh, hot, and dry. Not only are we always thirsty, the news and radio forecasters are always reminding us to stay hydrated. What tastes better in the summer than an ice cold glass of sweet tea, or lemonade, or soda? But, are they healthy summer drinks? Find out by taking our quiz below.

True or False Quiz

True or False: Soda is one of the worst drinks for you.

True or False: Iced tea is almost as bad as soda.

True or False: Fruit juice is much better than soda.

True or False: If you are going to drink anything this summer, drink flavored milk.  

True or False: Fluoridated water can actually help fight tooth decay.

Answers:

True: Soda is bad for your dental health because it is extremely high in sugar and it is very acidic. The acids eat away at your tooth enamel, and the sugars generate more acids when harmful bacteria consume them. In addition to being harmful to your teeth, research has shown that each soda that you drink increases your risk of obesity 1.6 times.

True and False: Unsweetened iced tea, green teas, herbal teas, and black teas are rich in antioxidants and have numerous other health benefits. However, sweetened teas are high in sugar and can also cause tooth decay and weight gain.

False: Many juices are absolutely no better than soda.

False: Banana-strawberry flavored milk, vanilla milk, and strawberry milk all have 255 calories, 43 grams of carbohydrates, and 42 grams of sugar. They, too, are bad for your teeth and for your weight.

True: Fluoride helps strengthen and rebuild your tooth enamel. Water cleans away food debris and left over sugars and starches on your teeth. However, if you want something with a little flavor, unsweetened tea is the next best thing.

ABOUT YOUR KELLER, TX, DENTIST:

Brent Cornelius, DDS, and his compassionate team are happy to provide a comprehensive array of dental services to patients of all ages. To learn more, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Cornelius, call our dental office in Keller, TX, today at 817-431-4200. We also proudly welcome patients from Roanoke, Trophy Club, Westlake, Southlake, North Richland Hills, and all surrounding communities.