Kids Need to Drink More Water
We know the oral health benefits of drinking fluoridated tap water. Regardless of age, race, income, or insurance status, people who drink fluoridated water protect their teeth by bathing them in low concentrations of fluoride every time they swallow.
New research finds that children and adolescents aren’t getting enough. A study published in the June 11, 2015 issue of the American Journal of Public Health found that one quarter of U.S. kids aged 6 to 19 don’t drink any water as part of their daily fluid intake and that more than half were “at least a bit” dehydrated. The data were taken from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey between 2009 and 2012. The National Academy of Medicine recommends a total fluid intake, from all foods and beverages, of 2-3 quarts of water a day. The researchers conclude that strategies are needed to improve overall hydration among young people.
Drinking water, especially fluoridated water, promotes not only good oral health but good health overall.
