Drink Water for Life
For good health, adults need to drink about 8 glasses of water every day and both adults and children will need to drink more during physical activity and in hot weather.
“Evidence from medicine, sport, and education shows that drinking plenty of water is essential for switching on our minds and bodies. Brains dehydrate rapidly and, even before we are aware of being thirsty, concentration lapses, boredom sets in, and drowsiness and confusion take over. Energy comes from food, but the ability to make good use of this energy comes from keeping the body well hydrated.” (Ward and Daley 1993)
Water - the drink of choice
Water is the drink of choice when meeting fluid needs. Fizzy drinks and sports drinks are best avoided. Soft drinks are high in sugar and poor in nutrients and often replace water and milk in the diet. Sports drinks are not required to re-hydrate the body following regular exercise. Australian data shows that increases in soft drink consumption also relates to increases in overweight and obesity. Soft drinks also bathe teeth in sugars and acids, greatly increasing the risk of dental caries and tooth erosion. Queensland children have the highest rate of tooth decay in Australia. Queensland Health’s Happy Teeth resource supports early childhood facilities to encourage good teeth brushing habits in young children.
Fluoridated water is best
Fluoride is a naturally occurring compound found in water, plants, rocks, soil, air and most foods. Fluoridated water is where the natural fluoride levels have been topped up to reach a level where dental benefits can be achieved. Fluoridated water helps protect teeth by acting like a constant ‘repair kit’ for teeth. Frequent low levels of fluoride coming in contact with the teeth helps to make tooth enamel more acid resistant, and can even repair tooth damage from acid attacks before it becomes permanent.
Gold Coast Water supply is not fluoridated
If you use Gold Coast reticulated water it is important that you are aware that the water is not fluoridated and that the natural levels are not high enough to provide dental benefit. You should make sure that you protect your teeth by brushing with fluoridated toothpaste, eating a healthy diet and getting regular dental checks. If you have any concerns you should contact your local dental professional.
