Carbonated Water: Good or Bad for Your Health?
By Sara Butler
People seem to really love their carbonated water. Sparkling water that is sugar-free and calorie-free seems to be taking the world by storm. You probably know someone who can't seem to live without it! But the question is: Is sparkling water good or bad for your overall health? Here are a few things you should consider about the role of sparkling water in your life.
Does It Cause Calcium Loss?
There have been claims that sparkling water leaches calcium from the bones. The truth is that there's been no study that confirms this idea to be true. In fact, studies that have been done on this aspect of carbonated water found that they have no impact on bone density at all.
Soda pop was found to have some impact on mineral density, but sparkling water by itself does not, probably because soda often contains phosphorus, which can increase the body's loss of calcium.
Does It Cause Tooth Decay?
Plain carbonated water without sugar or citric acid was found to have no impact on the decay of the teeth. Soda pop and other carbonated water beverages that have other ingredients can impact the health of your teeth, however, so make sure that you don't go overboard with even calorie-free sparkling water drinks.
Does It Contribute to Obesity?
Some studies have found that carbonated water beverages with artificial flavors, sweeteners, acids, and any other additives can have a negative impact on a healthy body weight. That's why it's essential to read the labels carefully of the drinks you choose to consume. If you're into plain carbonated water, then chances are you are just fine. Everything else you should question.
A Few Drinking Tips
It's important to look at the ingredients list of any water beverage you choose. Be on the lookout for additives you may not realize were there, additives such as sugar and sodium, so you can avoid negative consequences to your health and wellness. Also, note these facts:
- Flavored sparkling water may contain sweeteners, sodium, caffeine, and citric acid that can impact your health
- Seltzer water doesn't usually have added sodium, but club soda does
- Tonic water can have added flavors and sweeteners
Try experimenting with plain sparkling water if you like a little fizz. You can add cucumbers, herbs, fresh fruit, or even honey to change the flavors to something you enjoy more.
If you enjoy carbonated water, then you don't have to stop drinking it. Simply understand what you are and aren't getting in the drink of your choice and how it can impact your health.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Columbus, Ohio.