Is sparkling water bad for your health

Vital for life and yet calorie-free, water is composed of hydrogen and oxygen (H2O). Sparkling varieties have often been infused with carbon dioxide to create bubbles and make them fizzy.

Discover our full range of health benefit guides and some delicious ways to increase your water intake.

Nutritional profile

The flavour and composition of a glass of sparkling water varies depending on its source, method of carbonation and whether additives like sugar, sweetener, salt or flavourings have been used.

Is sparkling water bad for your health

What types of sparkling water are there?

• Sparkling mineral water is naturally carbonated at source, although some producers add more carbon dioxide to make their product fizzier. Typically derived from underground springs, this water is also a source of minerals, like calcium and magnesium.

• Regular sparkling water lacks these minerals and the bubbles are created by infusing carbon dioxide into the water through a combination of high pressure and a low temperature - this allows carbon to dissolve in the water. When the temperature is raised and the pressure reduced, the carbon dioxide escapes, creating bubbles.

Is sparkling water a healthy choice?

Water contributes to health and a daily intake of approximately 6-8 glasses is recommended, although individual needs may vary. Mineral water may have additional benefits thanks to the minerals it contains and how easy these are for us to absorb.

In theory, carbonation makes sparkling water more acidic, giving it the potential to erode tooth enamel, however, you would need to consume significant amounts for this to be a problem. Studies also suggest that, when compared with fizzy soft drinks, sparkling water, and especially mineral water, is a much a healthier choice.

Another myth suggests that carbonated drinks weaken bones, again this is not relevant for sparkling water.

There’s no evidence to suggest that sparkling water, that is free of additives like sugar or salt, is bad for our health. Although, if you purchase water in plastic bottles you should be aware that these bottles may contain plasticisers, which may be released into the water if the bottle is stored in sunlight or at high temperatures. These include compounds that have oestrogenic effects as well as carcinogens.

Is sparkling water safe for everyone?

The answer to this is yes, although if you have a sensitive digestion or experience burping, bloating or heartburn, you may be better off choosing still water. That said, even this is under debate with a 2002 study suggesting carbonated water alleviated symptoms of dyspepsia and constipation.

How do you like your water – fizzy, still, flavoured? Share your thoughts in the comments below….

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By Registered Nutritionist Kerry Torrens

20 June 2022

Kerry Torrens BSc. (Hons) PgCert MBANT is a Registered Nutritionist with a post graduate diploma in Personalised Nutrition & Nutritional Therapy. She is a member of the British Association for Nutrition and Lifestyle Medicine (BANT) and a member of the Guild of Food Writers. Over the last 15 years she has been a contributing author to a number of nutritional and cookery publications including BBC Good Food. Find her on Instagram at @kerry_torrens_nutrition_

All health content on bbcgoodfood.com is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. If you have any concerns about your general health, you should contact your local health care provider. See our website terms and conditions for more information.

Is sparkling water bad for your health

There is something extra refreshing about a glass of sparkling water, and served in a cocktail glass with a twist it can help you get through a night of partying without overdoing alcohol.

But somehow word has gotten around that bubbly water is bad for you. To get to the bottom of it, I dug through the research. Here’s what the science has to say:

Myth: The rumor is that bubbly water can lead to bone loss, increasing the risk of osteoporosis. It’s also accused of eroding tooth enamel and causing gas and bloating.

Truth: Plain carbonated water is made by adding carbon dioxide to water. This forms carbonic acid, which makes sparkling slightly more acidic than still water. But unless you drink it in extreme amounts, studies show it will not affect the health of your bones or teeth. Some sparkling waters even contain added minerals, which could help strengthen your pearly whites.

Research linking carbonation with bone loss or tooth enamel erosion have mostly used soda, not carbonated water. Soda is much more acidic because of the phosphoric acid it contains, plus the added sugar is bad for teeth.

As far as causing gas and bloating, some people do find that to be an issue. But some studies show sparkling water can actually relieve indigestion and constipation by stimulating digestion. Let your body be the judge on this one. Sip, don’t gulp, and if you find you can’t tolerate the bubbles, then stick with still.

The bottom line: Bubbly water is mostly a healthy way to add some sparkle to what you drink. To be safe, don’t drink it exclusively, but alternate with still water. Plus, not all sparkling waters are created equal. Club soda, tonic water and some flavored varieties can contain added sodium, sugar and artificial sweeteners. For this reason, when it comes to sparkling water, plain is best.

Are there any negatives to sparkling water?

Sparkling water disadvantages Since sparkling water contains CO2 gas, the bubbles in this fizzy drink can cause burping and bloating symptoms. Dr. Ghouri also points out that some sparkling water brands may contain artificial sweeteners like sucralose which may cause diarrhea and even alter your gut microbiome.

What does sparkling water do to your body?

Drinking carbonated water can help you stay more hydrated throughout the day. Many people find that carbonated water tastes better and is easier to drink than regular tap or spring water. However, carbonated has the same health benefits as spring water, in that it will keep your body hydrated.

Is sparkling water as bad as soda?

Is sparkling water a good alternative for people trying to kick a soda habit? Absolutely. Club soda or sparkling water will hydrate people better than regular soda, as long as the drink doesn't have added sugar.

Is sparkling water bad for your kidneys?

Carbonated beverage consumption has been linked with diabetes, hypertension, and kidney stones, all risk factors for chronic kidney disease.