With refined sugars and citric acids found in sodas and some fruit juices permanently eating away our teeth’s protective enamel, an alternative drink is needed. Brewed tea, according to a recent report in the peer-reviewed journal of the Academy of General Dentistry, can help protect teeth.

Apart from taste, tea has many health benefits, such as helping to decrease the risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes. The authors of the study recommend green tea over black due to its higher content of antioxidants. Tea may be served hot or cold, as long as it’s home-brewed, simple and pure.

The researchers recommend that we avoid adding milk, lemon or sugar, because these additives decrease the tea’s benefits. They further suggest that people stay away from prepackaged iced teas, because they usually contain citric acid and high amounts of sugar.