Bulimia is a condition where sufferers binge eat a large amount of food then use a method (typically vomiting) to avoid gaining weight after their binge. The vomiting or removal of the food that has been consumed is referred to as purging. So a bulimic will binge (eat a large quantity of food types in one sitting) and then follow that binge with a purge (vomiting up the food). Many bulimics have distorted self-body images and/or an obsessive desire to lose weight which serves to continue the cycle of binge and purge.

Bulimia is a very serious condition that can become life-threatening if left untreated. Early symptoms of bulimia include dehydration, changes in weight, and swelling in the hands and feet. More serious complications can come later including kidney failure from dehydration, suicidal thoughts or actions, and heart problems such as life-threatening as heart failure. While there are many physical and psychological symptoms and complications associated with bulimia, many are unaware of the damage bulimia can do to a sufferer’s teeth.     

Bulimia has a significant effect on teeth. In fact, it is often dentists who first notice signs of bulimia in their patients who are attempting to keep their affliction a secret. Much of the damage to the teeth from bulimia comes from the purging process. Vomit contains hydrochloric acid which can lead to enamel erosion on teeth with repeated exposure. This erosion typically starts with the upper front teeth as they come in contact with the vomit most frequently. The erosion of the enamel of the teeth leads to an increase risk for tooth decay.

Many bulimics will eventually lose teeth if they are not able to get the help they need. Bulimics are encouraged not to immediately brush their teeth after an episode of purging because the enamel is in a weakened state due to the stomach acid and the act of brushing can further erode the tooth enamel. Instead, bulimics should rinse their mouth out with a mixture of baking soda and water after vomiting. When they do brush their teeth, bulimics should use toothpaste that contains fluoride which is an ingredient known to strengthen teeth. If you or a loved one is suffering from bulimia, please seek help immediately. The damage to your body and your teeth can be reversed, but only if you act quickly.

While sugar is an important nutrient for your brain, too much sugar can wreak havoc on other parts of your body. Diabetics, for example, must watch their sugar intake like a hawk. High blood sugars can cause serious and debilitating issues. Also, eating too much sugar results in decayed teeth and oral problems.

Some fruits have natural sugars, and other fruits are very tart unless sugar is added. There are no sugar-free juices per se. However, what you should look for when shopping is the juice that contains 100 percent natural flavors.     

Tomato Juice    

Tomato juice is highly nutritious and very low in sugar. Loaded with antioxidants, this juice can control and prevent certain health problems. Drinking tomato juice lowers inflammation, detoxes your system and reduces your risk from heart disease. With two glasses a day, this juice can cover your vitamin C and vitamin A intake. Some studies have shown that tomato juice can also lower your risk for cancer.    

Lime Juice    

While limes are highly acidic, there are several health benefits to drinking lime juice. The juice has four grams of sugar in one cup. However, most people add the juice to water to dilute the acid affects. Limes can increase your immunity, reduce skin wrinkles and increase your iron intake. This juice is also full of antioxidants to help with your overall body function.    

Coconut Juice    

Commonly known as coconut water, this juice is low in sugar. A 3.5 oz container consists of 2.61 grams of sugar. Coconut juice has a hype for being nutritionally sound, which is just that, a hype. However, as drinks go, this is a good source of protein and potassium. You should limit your daily intake because your body can overdose on potassium.    

Completely sugar-free juices are difficult to find. The best method to ensure that you are not drinking too much sugar is at home juicing. You can control the ingredients and know exactly how much sugar you are adding to your drinks. It is important to always read labels to know specifically what you are consuming.