In light of new research, bacteria in the mouth produce 5 to 6 times more acid when they eat soy milk compared to cow’s milk, reports MyHealthyNewsDaily.
Research published in the Journal of Dentistry suggests that soy milk significantly increases the amount of acid produced by bacteria in the mouth. Acids in the mouth contribute to the formation of plaque, which weakens the enamel and causes tooth decay and cavities.
The study was conducted under laboratory conditions, so more research is needed before scientists can confirm whether soy milk actually damages teeth, said William Bowen, professor of microbiology and immunology at the University of Rochester, who was not involved in the study. Bowen adds that the research did not take into account the role of saliva, which may have a neutralizing effect.
“The harm depends on how much and how the milk is consumed,” says Bowen. For example, drinking one glass of soy milk, preferably through a straw, should not have a negative effect. However, letting your baby sip soy milk from a bottle all day can be a disadvantage, unlike cow’s milk, which is known to have positive effects on teeth. (PAP)
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