Can You Drink Coffee When You Have Braces?
Coffee is one of the most popular drinks in the world, enjoyed by billions of people each and every day. But if you are fortunate enough to be fitted with braces, your drinking habits may need to change. Can you drink coffee when you have braces? This particular article explores the types of coffee you can consume when you have braces and the effects of consuming them.
Types of Coffee You Can Drink With Braces
There are a few types of coffee that are recommended for those with braces. One of these types is cold coffee. This includes iced coffee, blended coffee drinks, and even frappuccinos from Starbucks. Cold coffee is preferable because it is less likely to stick to the teeth and braces, making it easier to clean up. Cold coffee is also less acidic, making it less likely to cause damage to the brackets and wires.
Another type of coffee you can enjoy with braces is decaf coffee. Decaf coffee still has some caffeine, but because it is decaffeinated it may not affect the wires and brackets of the braces. Decaf coffee is also less acidic, which makes it a safer choice for those with braces.
Effects of Coffee on Braces
Although there are some types of coffee that are safe for those with braces, there are still potential risks. Certain types of coffee, such as regular coffee, can stain the brackets and wires of the braces. This can make the braces look discolored or even rusty. If a person is drinking coffee with braces, they should be sure to brush their teeth after drinking it to prevent staining.
Regular coffee is also very acidic, which can cause damage to the wires and brackets of the braces. It can also cause the brackets to come loose, which could lead to an extended period of having braces.
When to Avoid Coffee With Braces
When it comes to drinking coffee with braces, it is important to be aware of the potential risks. For this reason, it is best to avoid coffee until the braces have been removed. This is because the brackets and wires can become stained by regular coffee, and the acidic nature of coffee can cause the brackets to come loose.
It is also important to avoid drinking coffee too close to eating, as this could cause more staining. Coffee can also contribute to an increase in plaque formation, so brushing and flossing regularly is a must.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is possible to drink coffee when you have braces, as long as you choose the right type. Cold coffee and decaf coffee are generally safe for those with braces, and brushing and flossing regularly can help to prevent staining and plaque formation. However, it is best to avoid regular coffee until after the braces have been removed.
Alternative Methods of Enjoying Coffee
When you have braces, it can be difficult to enjoy coffee in the traditional way. But thankfully, there are plenty of alternative methods of enjoying your favourite cup of joe.
Try a Latte
The great thing about a latte is that you can make it cold or hot depending on your preference. A latte is also much less acidic than regular coffee, so when it comes to drinking coffee with braces, this is the way to go. You can also make it with dairy free milk and even protein powder, making it perfect for those following a vegan or paleo diet.
Go for Cold Brew
Cold brew has become increasingly popular in recent years, and it’s easy to see why. Cold brew is made with cold water, so it’s much less acidic than regular coffee. Plus, all you have to do is add your favorite milk, and you’re ready to go.
Start Juicing
For those that don’t like the taste of coffee, but still want to enjoy the benefits, then why not try cold press juicing? Cold press juicing helps to preserve the nutrients in the coffee. However, it is important to note that cold press juice is still acidic, so it is important to dilute it with water before drinking.
Embrace Tea
Finally, for those that don’t want to give up caffeine completely, tea is a great alternative. Green tea is by far the healthiest option, but there are a variety of teas to choose from. Whether you like oolong, matcha or jasmine, there is sure to be one that fits your taste.
Health Benefits of Drinking Coffee
Coffee has been linked to a host of health benefits. Not only does it help you to stay alert and focused, but it can also improve your physical and mental health.
Boosts Metabolism
One of the main benefits of coffee is its ability to boost the metabolism. Studies have shown that drinking coffee can help increase the amount of energy that the body uses, making it easier to lose weight.
Improves Mood
Another benefit of drinking coffee is it can help to improve your mood. Coffee contains caffeine, which helps to improve mental alertness, reduce pain, and bring about feelings of euphoria.
Fights Diseases
Coffee has also been linked to a reduced risk of certain diseases. Studies have shown that coffee can help protect against type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s disease.
High in Antioxidants
Coffee is also a great source of antioxidants. Antioxidants help to protect the body from the damaging effects of free radicals, which can lead to a variety of chronic diseases including cancer.
Negative Effects of Coffee on Health
Although there are numerous health benefits of drinking coffee, it is important to bear in mind the possible negative effects it can have too. Caffeine can cause insomnia, headaches, and can make some people feel anxious or jittery. It can also increase the risk of dehydration and disrupt your sleep pattern.
Too Much Caffeine Can Be Harmful
When it comes to coffee, moderation is key. Too much caffeine can have harmful effects, such as an increased risk of heart disease and high blood pressure. Furthermore, drinking coffee on an empty stomach can cause an upset stomach and irritate the digestive system.
Risk of Osteoporosis
Excess consumption of coffee can also increase the risk of osteoporosis. Coffee can lower the amount of calcium in the body, which means bones become more porous and brittle.
Can Elevate Stress Levels
Finally, drinking too much coffee can increase stress levels. The caffeine in coffee can lead to a feeling of constant alertness, which in turn can cause fatigue and anxiety.
How to Have Coffee in Moderation
If you want to maximize the health benefit of coffee while minimizing its negative effects, it is important to practice moderation. Here are a few tips on how to do just that:
Limit Caffeine Intake
Health experts recommend limiting caffeine intake to 400mg per day. That is the equivalent to four cups of coffee. It is important to remember that other drinks, such as energy drinks and some teas, can also contain caffeine, so it is important to factor those in when calculating your daily intake.
Go for Decaf
For those that don’t want to give up their cup of joe, but still want to minimize the risks, decaf coffee is the way to go. Decaf still contains some caffeine, but it is much lower than regular coffee, making it a great option for those who want to stay safe without sacrificing flavor.
Drink Plenty of Water
It is also important to stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water is essential for overall health, and it is especially important if you are drinking coffee.
Eat Nutritious Foods
Finally, it is important to eat a balanced and nutritious diet. Eating healthy, whole foods is the key to keeping your body in tip-top condition. This will help to protect your bones and reduce the risk of developing certain diseases.
By following these simple tips, you can make sure that you get the most out of your cup of joe without putting your health at risk. So drink up and enjoy!
