We all know that the sugar load in many soft drinks is astonishingly high, which has an impact on our health and especially on our calorie balance. This is why light and zero versions of soft drinks have been created. But are these "healthy" alternatives really as healthy as they seem? In today's blog post we take a look at in-depth look at artificial sweeteners and their effects on our health, especially of course on the effects on your teeth.
What are artificial sweeteners?
Artificial sweeteners are chemically produced substances used in our favorite drinks to make them sweet without adding calories. They seem like the perfect solution for sugar-free drinks, however, their regular consumption can have potentially harmful effects.
Despite the lack of sugar in these drinks, this does not automatically mean that they tooth-friendly So-called »zero drinks« often contain acids such as citric acid or phosphoric acid, which provide taste and shelf life. These However, acids can also attack tooth enamel. If the pH of a product is below 5.5, the tooth enamel begins to dissolveThis can lead to demineralization of the tooth enamel, making it softer and more susceptible to damage.
Effects of artificial sweeteners on health
In addition to the effects on our teeth Artificial sweeteners also have other health consequences. Studies have shown that artificial sweeteners can be linked to a number of health problems, including
- weight gain,
- intestinal problems and
- Herz-Kreislauf-Erkrankungen.
This means that regular consumption of these seemingly »healthy« alternatives increases the risk of
- high blood pressure,
- heart attacks or
- strokes
can increase.
How do you protect yourself from these risks?
Although the consumption of »light drinks« does not immediately lead to damaged teeth or stroke, there are certain precautions that can be taken to reduce potential negative effects. First of all, it is advisable to wait at least half an hour after consuming these drinks before brushing your teethIn addition, the drink should not be consumed throughout the day, as this repeatedly exposes the teeth to the acidic pH value.
Artificial sweeteners are not necessarily the healthier alternative they are often portrayed to be. Although they are sugar-free, they can affect both our teeth and our general health. It is best to enjoy these drinks in moderation or choose water or unsweetened tea instead.
 |
 |
 |
