You’ve seen it in your local grocery store and you’ve probably even tried it – sparkling water. You might be wondering, does sparkling water hydrate you? The answer is yes!
Carbonated drinks, such as sparkling water, are a great way to stay hydrated.
In this article, we will discuss the health benefits of drinking carbonated drinks and why they are a better choice than still or mineral water. We will also provide tips on how to enjoy sparkling water.
So as we know that sparkling water does help in hydrating, let’s jump deep into the blog and discuss some subtopics.
What is a Carbonated Drink?
Carbonated water is a type of water that has been carbonated under pressure with the aid of CO2 gas. There are several carbonated water drinks that may be confused with one another, but they are actually quite distinct, we will be discussing them in the following section.
It’s found in a variety of brands and products. It is also available in natural and artificially flavored varieties, as well as those with added sugars or syrups.
Different Types of Carbonated Drinks
Water and carbon dioxide are the primary components in sparkling or seltzer water, which is commonly known as carbonated water or drink.
Carbonated water, on the other hand, may have additional flavorings and minerals, such as sodium bicarbonate, potassium sulfate, and sodium chloride.
The following are the most frequent varieties of carbonated water:
- Sparkling or seltzer water. Water from a faucet can be carbonated in various ways, the most common of which is by adding CO2 to it. This is artificially carbonated tap water that has been filtered.
- Mineral water. The gas in this one is composed of only natural, but it may be enhanced with extra carbon dioxide, either from the same source as the water, under pressure, or artificially.
- Soda water. Aside from carbon dioxide, it also has sodium bicarbonate and possibly other chemicals to keep its acidity in check.
- Tonic water. Other additives, such as quinine, are also added to this carbonated and mineralized water in order to disguise the bitterness of the flavorings. Quinine provides the bitter taste but it’s been cloaked by artificial sweeteners.
When carbon dioxide is combined with water, its pH decreases, resulting in a somewhat acidic drink. The beverage is fizzy at the end, which may appeal to some people over plain water.
Is Sparkling Water Good for You?
In general, plain carbonated water drinks are considered a healthy alternative. Sparkling water and normal water are equally hydrating, so drinking it can help you meet your daily hydration requirements.
Carbonation (bubbles) in any type of fizzy drink, on the other hand, may cause bloating, gas (burping), and fullness for some people if taken in larger quantities. These symptoms, however, are usually minor.
If you notice these indications and find them unpleasant, consider reducing the quantity to an amount that feels comfortable to you.
When it comes to science, here’s what we know. Carbonated beverages have been linked to stomach distention and some are acidic (for example, those with added citric acid), which has led people to believe they might exacerbate GERD.
This is because the carbonated drink or sparkling water tends to expand in the stomach. However, research reveals that carbonated beverages, in general, do not cause significant acid reflux.
Is it Better than Still or Mineral Water?
Let’s take a close look at our question, does sparkling water hydrate you? Yes, sparkling water may provide the same hydration as still water.
72 males who were adequately hydrated were given still water and three other beverages at random, including sparkling water, a sports drink, orange juice, coffee, tea, milk, and others in one study.
The team also asked the participants if they preferred sparkling water over still, and they discovered that guys who drank sparkling water preferred it more than those who didn’t.
The amount of urine they produced later was measured, and researchers discovered that the men produced equal amounts of pee after drinking sparkling water as they did when drinking still.
So, the body retained and released the same volume of water after consuming both beverages — implying that they have similar effects on the body when it comes to hydration.
Is Sugar a Concern? Can it Affect the Bones?
We discussed a study regarding our question, does sparkling water hydrate you? But is it a concern?
No, you won’t receive any kind of additive that can accelerate bone loss if you’re drinking plain carbonated water.
Carbonation agents found in noncarbonated beverages, such as sugar and caffeine, can contribute to bone loss. As a result, it’s critical to keep your consumption of this product under control.
So what about the sugar level? Sugary drinks are the main contributors of added sugar in the American diet, but is carbonated water one of them? Is carbonated water, on the other hand, part of the problem?
The answer is no. Choose carbonated water with no added sugar when buying it. This you can do by checking the nutrients in the ingredients section and, you’re good to go.
If you want to add fruit juice or “essence” to your water, seek those with little additions.
How to Enjoy Sparkling Water?
Here are some tips to make your sparkling water experience even better.
- Try avoiding the ones with added sugar and prefer the ones with “essence”.
- Coconut water is especially well-suited for the diabetic diet since it is low in carbohydrates. To add natural flavor, add fresh or frozen fruit chunks to the water. Peaches, berries, and pineapple are all good options. Fresh cucumbers, in particular, offer a delicious taste.
- Fresh herbs, such as mint or rosemary, can be added for a unique taste twist. Muddling the herbs adds a more distinct flavor and may be paired with different fruits for further taste development.
Conclusion
Sparkling water is a refreshing, hydrating beverage that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It’s sugar-free, calorie-free, and does not cause tooth decay. When choosing sparkling water, look for brands with no added sweeteners or flavors. Enjoy it on its own or add fresh fruit, herbs, or even coconut water for extra flavor.
Also, remember to drink in moderation and always consult with your doctor if you have any concerns. While some people think that carbonated water can be bad for your health, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. In fact, sparkling water can actually have some health benefits.
FAQs
Does sparkling water hydrate you?
Yes, sparkling water may provide the same hydration as still water.
Is it better than still or mineral water?
Yes, sparkling water may provide the same hydration as still water.
Is sugar a concern?
No, you won’t receive any kind of additive that can accelerate bone loss if you’re drinking plain carbonated water.
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