The impact of unhealthy food and drinks on children’s risk of dental caries
Almost all studies reported positive associations between the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages or foods high in free sugars and dental caries.This research was part of a larger body of work commissioned by the World Health Organization (WHO) to inform new complementary feeding guidelines for infants and young children aged 6-23 months.1
We conducted a systematic review to assess the impact of unhealthy food and beverage consumption on the risk of dental caries in children aged 10 years and under. Systematic searches were conducted across PubMed, Cochrane and Embase databases from January 1971-June 2022. Unhealthy foods and beverages were identified using nutrient- and food-based approaches.
This research was part of a larger body of work commissioned by the World Health Organization (WHO) to inform new complementary feeding guidelines for infants and young children aged 6-23 months.1 The impact of unhealthy foods and beverages has been studied extensively in relation to weight, body composition, and noncommunicable diseases, but less so in relation to the risk of dental caries. Few previous reviews have examined the evidence from all countries globally.
Based on the evidence, the new WHO guidelines recommend that children under 2 years should not consume foods high in sugar, salt and trans fats, sugar-sweetened beverages, non-sugar sweeteners, and to limit consumption of 100% fruit juice.1
Reducing the frequency of intake of food and drink high in sugar for oral health is supported by this research. Reducing the amount of unhealthy food and drinks in the diet, many typically high in sugars, may also have a positive impact on a child’s oral and general health. A more holistic approach to lifestyle advice and closer collaboration between dental and other services could encourage healthier lifestyle practices.
What next?
Studies in this review were from high-income or medium-income countries with 67.6% assessed as having serious risk of bias. Further longitudinal studies with high-quality dietary assessments, including studies in low-income countries and children aged 5 years or over at baseline, are recommended in order to build a more robust evidence base for use in the development of policy recommendations.
Citation details
Large JF, Madigan CD, Pradeilles R, Markey O, Boxer B and Rousham EK. Impact of unhealthy food and beverage consumption on children’s risk of dental caries: a systematic review. Nutrition Reviews. 2023. DOI: 10.1093/nutrit/nuad147
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