The Link Between Blood Sugar, Diet, and Tooth Decay

When blood sugar levels rise sharply, calcium is frequently drawn from the teeth or bones to restore equilibrium. Over time, this can result in mineral depletion, which weakens tooth enamel and increases the likelihood of decay. Dr. Page discovered that keeping blood sugar levels stable, combined with maintaining the correct ratio of calcium to phosphorus, can actually offer protection against tooth decay. However, regularly consuming sweet foods—whether natural fruits or processed sugars—keeps blood sugar levels erratic, prolonging the imbalance of these essential minerals. Even snacks that seem healthy, such as dried fruit or dates, can trigger significant blood sugar spikes, underscoring the importance of moderation.

The Role of Diet in Preventing Tooth Decay

Traditional dentistry often attributes tooth decay to carbohydrates clinging to teeth, but Dr. Page’s research indicates that the true cause lies in the alterations to blood chemistry brought about by sugar intake. While the American Dental Association (ADA) advises against frequent snacking, the problem isn’t snacking itself but the kinds of foods usually selected. Snacks like candy bars, potato chips, and sugary cereals can severely disrupt blood sugar levels. Conversely, balanced snacks rich in vegetables, protein, and healthy fats can help stabilize blood sugar and safeguard teeth. This suggests that tooth decay is more closely linked to food choices than to how often you eat.

Fruit: A Double-Edged Sword

Fruit, particularly berries, can be a nutritious part of your diet, but modern fruits are often far sweeter than their ancient counterparts due to centuries of cultivation and hybridization. While fruit is natural, its high sugar content can still lead to blood sugar fluctuations that contribute to tooth decay. For instance, an ancient apple was small and tart, whereas today’s apples are large and sweet. Consuming fruit in moderation and pairing it with fats—such as cream or cheese—can help lessen its impact on blood sugar. However, overindulging in very sweet fruits like bananas, grapes, or dried fruit can heighten the risk of cavities.

Choosing the Right Sweeteners

Not all sweeteners are equal. Refined sugars, like white sugar, cause significant blood sugar fluctuations and mineral depletion over time. Even so-called “natural” sweeteners such as high-fructose corn syrup and agave nectar can be harmful, as they contain synthetic fructose that disrupts the balance of calcium and phosphorus. Safe sweeteners, when used in moderation, include unheated honey, grade B organic maple syrup, and minimally processed cane sugar. Stevia, a natural herb, can also be a safe option if used in its whole, unprocessed form. However, highly processed stevia extracts and sugar alcohols like xylitol should be avoided, as they can create imbalances in the body.

The Dangers of Processed Sweeteners

Many sweeteners marketed as “healthy” are far from it. Agave nectar, for example, contains as much fructose as high-fructose corn syrup and is not the natural product it’s often claimed to be. Similarly, sugar alcohols like xylitol, sorbitol, and erythritol may not feed cavity-causing bacteria, but they can still disrupt your body’s mineral balance. Even brown rice syrup and malted grain sweeteners, while appearing natural, can encourage tooth decay due to their processing methods and anti-nutrient content. Artificial sweeteners like aspartame and sucralose are best avoided entirely due to their potential health risks.

Soft Drinks and Tooth Decay

Soft drinks pose a dual threat to dental health. Not only are they packed with sugar, but their high acidity also depletes calcium and magnesium from the body. This combination makes them one of the worst options for both your teeth and overall health. Similarly, sweetened beverages and “health food” bars often contain hidden sugars like high-fructose corn syrup or agave nectar, which can contribute to tooth decay and other health problems.