Wendy: My best friend is adamant about always drinking everything with a straw. Is drinking through a straw that much better for you? 

Megan: There are pros and cons to straws, and some would even point out the environmental effect more plastic has which is why straws aren’t necessary. Reasons people like using a straw is because they decrease the risk of spills, can be more sanitary because you aren’t putting your mouth where bacteria could be, and can prevent stains on your teeth. Drawbacks to using straws is that they can cause smoker’s lips which are wrinkles around the lips, can cause stains on the back teeth, and can cause bloating/gas because of the extra air you might take in. There’s always good and bad to think about. Straws aren’t essential but might be desirable to those who want to keep their teeth white and are prone to spilling drinks. 

If you have a question for Dr. FIT, email her at everybodysfit@gmail.com and be sure to check out her website www.everybodysfitoceanside.com