Flavored, Carbonated Drinks for Dry Mouth
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine whether flavored, carbonated drinks improve salivary flow, saliva composition, and taste perceptions more effectively than plain or carbonated water. Participants will sample various drinks, including flavored carbonated and non-carbonated options. The trial seeks individuals who regularly consume carbonated beverages and are willing to fast briefly. It is not suitable for those with conditions affecting the mouth or taste. As an unphased trial, participants will help advance knowledge on how different beverages impact oral health and taste.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial protocol does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are taking medication that the investigator believes might interfere with the study, you may not be eligible to participate.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Studies have shown that flavored fizzy drinks can affect teeth. While tasty, these drinks might wear down enamel, the hard outer layer of teeth. This risk increases if the drinks contain sugar or artificial sweeteners, as mouth bacteria can convert these sugars into acids that harm teeth.
In contrast, flavored drinks without bubbles might be gentler on teeth, especially if they lack sugar. Research suggests that sugar-free options can increase saliva, benefiting those with dry mouth.
It's important to note that these flavored drinks are not linked to serious health issues. Most concerns focus on dental health, which can be managed with good dental care.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the use of flavored, carbonated drinks for dry mouth because they offer a unique approach compared to standard treatments like artificial saliva, oral gels, and mouth sprays. Unlike these traditional options, the flavored drinks use carbonation and a variety of sweeteners to stimulate saliva production naturally. This could potentially provide a more enjoyable and refreshing experience for users, making it easier to manage dry mouth symptoms. Additionally, the variety in flavors and carbonation could cater to individual preferences, offering a more personalized treatment option.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for dry mouth?
This trial will compare various flavored and carbonated drinks to assess their effects on dry mouth. Research has shown that chewing flavored sugarless gum and using sorbitol-sweetened breath mints can increase saliva production in people with dry mouth, suggesting that flavored drinks might have a similar effect. Studies have also shown that fizzy drinks can feel more pleasant in the mouth, potentially making them more helpful for dry mouth. However, some research indicates that sugary drinks can increase saliva acidity, which can harm teeth. Overall, flavored and fizzy drinks are thought to aid saliva production, but their sugar content should be considered.24678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Lindsay Baker, PhD
Principal Investigator
PepsiCo, Inc. Sports Science
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals interested in how flavored, carbonated drinks affect saliva and taste. Specific eligibility criteria are not provided, so it's assumed that participants should be generally healthy with an interest in the study's focus.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Test Sessions
Participants undergo test sessions with different beverages to measure salivary flow rate, composition, and taste perceptions
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for adverse events and overall safety
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Flavored, Carbonated Drinks
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
PepsiCo Global R&D
Lead Sponsor
Ramon Laguarta
PepsiCo Global R&D
Chief Executive Officer since 2018
MBA from ESADE Business School
Mark Kirkham
PepsiCo Global R&D
Chief Marketing Officer
Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Trinity College Dublin