I had a patient come in today in some serious pain… He had three cavities! After easing the pain and filling the cavities I began to ask him a little about his diet. He quickly told me that he drank a bottle or two of Gatorade (sports drink) every day after football practice.
Beware of the refined sugar (added sugar) hidden in sports drinks. If the container says 10 grams of sugar per serving and there are 4 servings per container, then you have 40 grams of refined sugar in 1 bottle!!
Quick comparison: Coca-Cola Classic has 39 grams of refined sugar per 12 oz container.
For athletes performing in sports or practicing it is best to start off by drinking water for the first hour or so. If your practice or event is extremely strenuous and you are constantly sweating after the first hour then switch to Gatorade so you do not become dehydrated.
Overall refined sugar has a devastating effect on teeth!!