7 Benefits Of Sparkling Water: Carbonated Water Good Or Bad?
Benefits Of Sparkling Water. In recent years, sparkling water has gained popularity as a healthy alternative to sugary beverages like soda and juice. It seems sensible that more individuals are including sparkling water in their diets given its revitalizing flavor and low-calorie count.
However, this carbonated beverage offers more than simply a tasty beverage. Centralparkwestcafe will discuss the several health advantages of drinking sparkling water, from its capacity to hydrate to its ability to support weight loss and digestive health in this article.
What Is Sparkling Water?
Any water that has added carbon dioxide gas is referred to as sparkling water (carbonated water, seltzer water). It contains varying amounts of carbonation, ranging from faintly bubbling to big, strong bubbles. Either synthetically or naturally carbonated, it is.
Particularly for naturally carbonated brands, sparkling waters typically include more minerals than still waters. Because of how CO2 reacts with water to form carbonic acid, it is more acidic than still water. A fresh flavor is added by adding fruits or herbs.
Sparkling water is widely used as a non-alcoholic, calorie-free beverage in upscale restaurants and on a daily basis in places like southern and eastern Europe, France, German, and, to a lesser extent, Mexico and the United States.
Benefits Of Sparkling Water
Sparkling water might be an excellent substitute for normal water if you find it difficult to consume it. It has far fewer calories than soda and offers more hydration. There are a few major health advantages to that additional hydration:
Weight Loss
Sparkling water can support healthy weight reduction and weight control strategies. According to a report from the journal Digestive Diseases and Sciences, consuming sparkling water with meals keeps food in the stomach for longer than still water, which is one way it aids in weight loss.
Sparkling water’s bubbles help to prolong the sense of fullness, which regulates the digestive process. This is advantageous since it makes one consume less than they would if they were drinking still water. Additionally, sparkling water has more texture than still water and has no calories, making it a better alternative to soda.
Water For Oral Health
Some people worry that sparkling water can damage teeth by weakening the tooth enamel since it has a little greater acidity level than noncarbonated water. sparkling water is typically safe for your teeth, according to a survey from Mouth Health.
Both carbonated and noncarbonated water had almost the same effects on dental enamel when examined.
Some individuals are concerned that because sparkling water has a little higher amount of acidity than noncarbonated water, it might erode dental enamel and cause damage to the teeth.
According to a study by Mouth Health, sparkling water is usually harmless for your teeth. When tooth enamel was evaluated, carbonated and noncarbonated water had almost the same effects.
Aware of any additives when it comes to flavored sparkling drinks. Seltzers with citrus flavors frequently have greater amounts of acidity, which can worsen damage to dental enamel.
A sugar-sweetened beverage that has been sparkling water is not regarded to be authentic sparkling water and is more likely to result in cavities.
Advantages Of Sparkling Water In Digestive Health
Another area where sparkling water might be advantageous is the digestive system.
Sparkling water may help humans, both young and old, swallow more easily, according to the research Effect of Carbonated Beverages on Pharyngeal Swallowing in Young Individuals and Elderly Inpatients, which is accessible at PubMed.gov.
The capacity of carbonated water to activate swallowing-related nerves has been demonstrated. Sparkling water causes one to swallow more as a result.
It was established in a related investigation of swallowing reaction time that the interaction of chilly temperature and carbonation further accelerates swallowing.
An article on the effects of carbonated water on gastric emptying states that carbonated water actually helps one feel more satisfied after meals than noncarbonated water, which has an impact on digestive health as well.
In reality, sparkling water prolongs the feeling of being full by allowing food to stay in the stomach for longer.
Sparkling Water Cures Constipation
It’s intriguing that drinking sparkling water helps ease constipation because of how it affects the digestive tract.
According to research on the benefit of consuming carbonated water on constipation, senior participants who drank sparkling water saw a 58% reduction in constipation symptoms compared to participants who drank tap water.
In a separate study, it was shown that consuming sparkling water for 15 days significantly reduced the symptoms of persons with chronic digestive problems. It is clear that drinking sparkling water can help with digestive problems and constipation.
Improves Bone Health With Sparkling Water
Sparkling water is allegedly detrimental to bone health, contrary to widespread belief. In fact, cola is the only carbonated beverage that significantly affects bone health by lowering bone mineral density, according to comprehensive research including more than 2,500 participants.
Because sugary cola includes high quantities of phosphorus, as was mentioned in a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, experts think that the reduced bone mineral density is caused by ingesting too much phosphorus and not enough calcium.
Researchers showed that postmenopausal women who drank 34 ounces of sodium-rich sparkling water retained calcium far better than those who drank noncarbonated mineral water.
Health Benefits Of Sparkling Water For Heart
Sparkling water helps with calcium retention and consuming carbonated, sodium-rich water has a good effect on heart health, according to a study of postmenopausal women.
Women in the research who drank sparkling water high in salt showed a reduction in LDL cholesterol, also known as “bad cholesterol.” Their blood sugar levels were also lower. Additionally, they showed a rise in HDL cholesterol (the “good cholesterol”).
Due to its role in fatty deposit formation in the arteries, LDL cholesterol is regarded as “bad” cholesterol. Because it transports LDL cholesterol away from arteries and back to the liver, where it may be metabolized and eliminated from the body, HDL cholesterol is regarded as “good” cholesterol.
Sparkling Water Benefits For Skin
In the world of beauty, fizzy water face cleansers and sparkling water facials have long been popular.
This skincare method was first used by Japanese and Korean ladies, and it has gradually gained popularity all over the world.
Sparkling water makes your skin seem fresh and aids in deep cleansing. Additionally, it relaxes your skin and gives it a subtle glitter.
Disadvantages Of Sparkling Water
Although sparkling water might be a delicious substitute for sugary beverages, there are a few possible drawbacks to take into account:
- Erosion of dental enamel: Because sparkling water can be acidic, it may eventually cause tooth enamel to erode.
- Artificial sweeteners: Some sparkling waters include artificial sweeteners, which some individuals may find to be gastrointestinally problematic and pose health hazards.
- Carbonation: Sparkling water’s carbonation can cause some people to experience bloating, gas, and stomach discomfort.
- Sodium content: Some sparkling waters have a high salt level, which can be harmful to those who are attempting to cut back on their sodium consumption or who have high blood pressure.
- Addiction: Some individuals may discover a need for the carbonation and bubbles in sparkling water, which might lead to overconsumption and possibly replace better hydration choices like plain water.
As with any beverage, it’s vital to pick sparkling water carefully and to keep these potential downsides in mind.
Is Drinking Sparkling Water A Healthy Alternative To Drinking Sugary Drinks?
Yes, sparkling water can be viewed as a healthy substitute for sweetened beverages. It is a low-calorie or calorie-free choice for people trying to reduce their intake of sugar because it doesn’t include any artificial ingredients or added sweeteners.
Additionally, if you dislike drinking plain water, drinking sparkling water might aid with hydration. By substituting sparkling water for sugary beverages like soda or juice (lemon juice, pineapple juice, cranberry juice, etc.), you can also lessen your chance of acquiring conditions like obesity, type 2 diabetes, and tooth decay.
It’s advisable to read the label before making a purchase since certain sparkling water products could have artificial or natural flavors that might add calories.
How Much Sparkling Water Should You Consume?
There is no set recommendation for how much sparkling water should be consumed. Sparkling water is a carbonated beverage, but consuming too much of it can cause bloating and discomfort because it causes the digestive system to emit carbon dioxide.
Additionally, it’s crucial to keep in mind that certain sparkling water brands may include extra sugars, artificial sweeteners, or flavors; as a result, it’s recommended to read the label and consume these kinds of beverages in moderation.
The key to everything is moderation. To keep hydrated and maintain general health, it is advised to have a balanced, diverse diet that includes lots of simple water.
Adults should drink roughly 2.7 liters of water per day for women and 3.7 liters per day for men, however, this amount may change depending on an individual’s activity level, climate, and general health.
Sparkling Water Vs Still Water
Both still water and sparkling water are hydrating and beneficial to consumers, but they have different flavors and levels of carbonation. While still water is simple and devoid of bubbles, sparkling water is carbonated water that contains bubbles and a faintly effervescent flavor.
Personal preference will determine whether you like still water or sparkling water. Others appreciate the fizz and bubbles of sparkling water, while some individuals prefer the flavor of still water. Both forms of water are hydrating and have no calories or sugar, which is good for your health.
Sparkling Water Vs Soda Water
While both sparkling water and soda water are carbonated, there are some distinctions between the two. While soda water (sometimes referred to as club soda) is carbonated water that has been injected with minerals like sodium bicarbonate and potassium sulfate, sparkling water is just carbonated water without any additional additives.
In certain cases, flavorings are added to soda water, which can make it sweeter and give it a distinct flavor from sparkling water. As it simply has water and carbon dioxide in it, sparkling water is a more natural alternative.
Personal preference and dietary requirements should be taken into account while deciding between sparkling water and soda water. Sparkling water is a great alternative if you want something more natural. It’s possible that soda water is a better choice if you want a beverage with extra minerals.
FAQs
Is it good to drink sparkling water every day?
There is no proof that sparkling or carbonated water is unhealthy. Dental health is not significantly harmed by it, and bone health appears to be unaffected. It’s interesting to note that a carbonated beverage may improve digestion by facilitating swallowing and easing constipation.
Is it OK to drink sparkling water instead of water?
Sparkling water can be a healthy option for other sugary drinks, but it cannot replace plain water. Sparkling water doesn’t have the same balanced mineral content as normal water, despite the fact that it aids in hydration. Many sparkling water products may also contain flavors, salt, or other substances that are unhealthy for your health if used in excess.
What will happen if I only drink sparkling water?
Due to the bubbles in carbonated water making it more difficult to digest, it can cause dehydration and pressure on the kidney. Additionally considered acidic, carbonated water can be problematic for those with weakened digestive systems who are vulnerable to ulcers.
Sum Up
In conclusion, people wishing to cut back on sugar intake and enhance their general health may find sparkling water to be an excellent substitute for sweetened beverages.
Sparkling water may be an easy and pleasurable method to promote a healthy lifestyle because of its hydration advantages, low-calorie content, and capacity to help with weight control and digestive health. Just be sure to buy brands that don’t include artificial additives or extra sugars, and drink them in moderation.
Though sparkling water can be a better choice than other sugary beverages, it shouldn’t entirely replace plain water, which is necessary to stay hydrated.
You may take advantage of sparkling water’s many advantages while also promoting your general health and wellness by adding it to a balanced diet and lifestyle.
Centralparkwestcafe is grateful that you read about the advantages of bubbly sparkling water. We hope that the health benefits from this post have given you more information on this tasty and nutritious beverage alternative and given you the motivation to include it in your diet.
He has lived in Thailand for more than 2 years and in Vietnam for over a year to explore the coffee culture.
He is the Co-founder of Centralparkwestcafe With more than 20 years in coffee, he brings more subtle perspectives that you may find interesting.
