We’ve all been there: sitting at a restaurant minding our own business when the waiter decides to throw a curveball at our table – ‘Still or sparkling, madam?’
Whilst some (incorrectly) assume sparkling water is the H2O drink of choice reserved only for the fancier amongst us, many turn it away as they assume it’s the unhealthier option, having heard whispers of tooth decay and dehydration. But are the rumours true? Is sparkling water bad for you?
Here, we take a look at the science to bust the fizzy fibs and lift the lid on the health benefits of carbonated water.
What is sparkling water made of?
Sparkling water is created when highly pressurised carbon dioxide is passed through still drinking water at a low temperature to create carbonic acid. Once the pressure is reduced to normal levels, or the temperature is increased, carbon dioxide escapes from the water in the form of bubbles. Ta-da, that’s how water is carbonated. Easy, right?
To save you from going through the Breaking Bad level of chemistry above, many sparkling water makers are now available on the market such as our BIBO Fizz. At the touch of a button, the BIBO Fizz carbonates your water in a matter of seconds. Plus, with four levels of carbonation that you can set yourself, you can choose the perfect level of fizz for you.
Is sparkling water as good for you as still water?
In short, yes. You just need to read the label if you’re not carbonating the water yourself.
The truth is that sparkling water is just as healthy as regular water as long as it doesn’t contain added sweeteners and sugar. Pay close attention to any nutritional information before you take a sip as many carbonated water brands tend to add artificial sweeteners to their formula for added taste and this is where things start to get unhealthy for you and your body.
Is sparkling water bad for your teeth?
Whilst still filtered water is best for your pegs, fizzy water is much better for your dental health than sodas and other flavoured fizzy drinks.
In an interview with Right as Rain medical journal, registered dietician nutritionist Anne Linge, spilled the beans: “When we talk about teeth, adding carbon dioxide to water and sugar in a sweetened carbonated beverage can promote tooth decay. But that’s not the same thing as sparkling water that doesn’t have the added sugar.”
In fact, a study by The University of Birmingham reported that whilst some dental erosion did occur in patients, the overwhelming finding was that tooth decay from carbonated water was very low in comparison to sugary soft drinks such as orange juice and colas that proved over one hundred times more corrosive.
Can sparkling water affect bone density and calcium levels?
Fear not, fizz lovers! Flavoured, sugary sodas have been proven to promote issues such as osteoporosis but it’s not the same with carbonated water. This is because sparkling water is phosphorous free, a chemical that can reduce the amount of calcium your body can absorb. Take a sip of relief!
Does sparkling water hydrate you like regular water?
Yes! Many studies have now shown that carbonated water hydrates you just as much as still water – after all, it is regular water; it just has carbon bubbles in it!
A recent randomised trial put this exact conundrum to the test. This study investigated the effects of both regular water and sparkling water (as well as 11 other beverages such as milk and soda) on urine output and hydration levels when ingested in an euhydrated (normal water level) state. After results were collected, the trial found there was no difference between carbonated water and regular water in regard to hydration levels.
Are you interested in learning more about the best ways to quench your thirst? Check out our top tips on how to stay hydrated.
So, is sparkling water good for you?
At the end of the day, plain carbonated water is as healthy as you’re going to get after still, filtered water. The negatives only come into play when you don’t check to see whether your drink contains added sugar, flavourings, and sweeteners. If you’re clear on this, the benefits of carbonated water are both tongue-tingling and plentiful!
Want to find out more about sparkling water and the BIBO Fizz? Get in touch with our expert team to find out more about our range! We’re more than happy to answer any questions or queries you may have.
