Effects of Sugar on Teeth

Effects of Sugar on Teeth

6th March 2017

An average morning diet consists of bread, cereals and coffee which contains high amount of refined sugars. This extra amount of sugar will not be utilized by our body, and it’s negatively affecting our whole system including our teeth. Children are the most vulnerable in consuming large amount of processed without even realizing it.

Maximum daily amount of sugar for children are:

• 4 to 6 years old – 19 grams (5 cubes)
• 7 to 10 years old – 24 grams (6 cubes)
• 11 years up – 30 grams (7 cubes)

It is very essential that children should not consume sugar more than the required amount. Too much sugar can cause tooth decay. Bacteria feed on sugars to form acid. This acid targets enamel that leads to tooth decay. It can also result to pain, sleepless nights and school absences.

Aside from being aware of daily sugar consumption, it is important to limit the foods that have surprisingly high amount of sugar and saturated fats like the following:

• artificially sweetened smoothies and juices
• soft drinks
• spaghetti sauce
• sweetened yogurt
• breakfast cereals
• donuts, cakes and pastries
• biscuits
• buns

Natural sugars which we get from fruits are great but artificial and added sugars are not necessary to our body. In fact, it can make our blood to flow more sluggishly which can later cause serious illnesses.

Sources:

http://www.livestrong.com/article/541981-the-difference-between-glucose-sugar-in-food/

http://edition.cnn.com/2015/07/07/health/western-diet-health/

https://www.nhs.uk/change4life-beta/sugar#0kc7rbz5MuSZYxDT.97

https://authoritynutrition.com/18-surprising-foods-high-in-sugar/