You might not think twice about using a straw to enjoy your favorite beverage, but there are some surprising side effects of this common practice that you need to be aware of.

From dental issues to environmental concerns, here’s a closer look at the dangers of using a straw.

The Dental Dangers of Straws

Using a straw to sip on sugary drinks like soda and juice can have serious consequences for your dental health.

When you put a straw in your mouth, you’re bypassing your teeth and allowing the acid and sugar in these beverages to come into direct contact with your tongue, throat, and esophagus. Not only can this lead to erosion of your teeth, but it can also cause painful cavities and infections in your mouth.

The Impact on the Environment

Another major downside of using straws is their impact on the environment. Every year, billions of straws end up in landfills and oceans, where they can take hundreds of years to decompose.

This not only pollutes our planet, but it also harms wildlife who mistake straws for food and ingest them, leading to injuries and even death.

Straws as a Choking Hazard

For young children and people with certain disabilities, using straws can also pose a choking hazard. If a straw becomes dislodged or breaks in their mouth, it can block their airway and lead to serious health problems or even death.

In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents avoid giving their children straws until they are at least 9 years old to minimize this risk.

The Relationship Between Straws and Wrinkles

Believe it or not, using straws can also lead to premature aging and wrinkles around your mouth.

When you suck on a straw, you are engaging the muscles around your mouth in a way that can cause them to contract and eventually lead to fine lines and wrinkles. So if you’re looking to preserve your youthful appearance, it might be time to consider giving up straws for good.

Straws as a Gateway to Overeating

Finally, using straws can actually contribute to overeating and weight gain. When you use a straw, you are able to consume drinks more quickly and in larger quantities than when drinking straight from a cup.

This can lead to overconsumption of sugary or high-calorie beverages, which can contribute to obesity and other health problems over time.

Conclusion: Think Twice Before Using a Straw

While straws may seem harmless, the truth is that there are many hidden dangers associated with this common item.

From dental issues to environmental concerns to choking hazards and more, using a straw can have serious consequences for your health and wellbeing. So the next time you’re offered a straw with your drink, think twice before saying yes and consider sipping from a cup instead.