Obesity, Heart Issues, and Other Critical Health Concerns
Energy Drinks - Ellis Dental
Energy drinks contain many ingredients that can be harmful to a developing child. While very popular and readily available, these drinks can pack a punch of sugar, caffeine, and other dangerous substances. To quote the American Academy of Pediatrics, “…energy drinks have no place in the diet of children and adolescents.” In addition, these drinks can cause serious damage to the mouth, teeth, and gums. Our team at Ellis Dental strongly encourages parents to prevent their children from choosing these beverages. Water is the best alternative to both a healthy mouth and healthy body.
FACT: On a typical day, 80% of youth drink sugar-sweetened beverages, up to 20% of the total calories they consume. The liquid calories from sugar sweetened beverages like soda and energy drinks account for about half of the childhood obesity epidemic.
FACT: Studies to date have shown that switching to diet drinks doesn’t result in weight loss. Even worse, many show that the opposite happens; drinking diet energy and other artificially sweetened drinks is associated with gaining weight.
FACT: Energy drinks are often used by students to provide an extra boost in energy. However, the stimulants in these drinks can have a harmful effect on the nervous system.
FACT: Underage drinking is always dangerous, but a recent trend among teens to mix alcohol with energy drinks increases the danger.
Learn more at http://www.healthylincoln.org/initiatives/bevinit/energy-drinks-and-kids.html