With so many different brands and flavors out there, the possibilities of sparkling water are endlessly appealing. After all, who can deny that partaking in a coconut-flavored beverage invokes a hint of your last beach vacation? But beyond the flavor selection, here’s what else you should know about your daily fizzy drink habit.
It’s a Healthy and Smart Choice
Sparkling water is an excellent drink to enjoy on a daily basis. It’s a great alternative to soda since it’s calorie- and sugar-free while giving you that same effervescent mouthfeel. Even if you’re a diet soda drinker, you might want to consider making the switch to sparkling water, since diet soda has been linked to negative health implications. Choosing brands like La Croix that are free of artificial sugar and food coloring keeps you in the clear for any negative health effects from your bubbly habit. There are a variety of flavored options to keep things interesting, including brands like Spindrift, which includes fresh-squeezed fruit for a little extra oomph. Maybe sparkling water replaces an evening glass of wine, or maybe you choose to partake in a boozy option like Bon V!v—regardless, you have options. If you want to DIY, try adding a squeeze of lemon or another citrus, or even top it with raspberries for a visually-appealing treat that will brighten up even the most mundane weekday afternoon. Sparkling water is super hydrating (just stick to the sodium-free brands), and the carbonation can fill you up and take the edge off hunger between meals or while you’re preparing dinner and feeling the urge to nibble. That’s right, sparkling water is perfect for drinking while fasting.
When You Shouldn’t Drink Sparkling Water
Some evidence suggests drinking sparkling water could worsen tooth sensitivity. All carbonated water, even when unflavored, contains carbonic acid (that’s what makes it bubbly). According to Heather Kunen, DDS, MS, a New York-based orthodontist, the added acidity can cause enamel erosion. To be safe, or if you already suffer from sensitive teeth, you can use a straw to avoid the water touching your teeth and consider brushing after drinking (or washing down with regular water). Additionally, it’s probably not the best idea to drink carbonated beverages during exercise, as they can cause discomfort and burping during vigorous activity. Stick to still water during your workouts, and enjoy sparkling water afterward as a refreshing treat. If you have irritable bowel syndrome or a sensitive GI system, the acidity and bubbles in sparkling water can worsen inflammation, says Linda Lee, MD, chief of staff at Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare and associate professor of medicine. While it won’t cause IBS, it could lead to a flare-up or discomfort, so it’s best to steer clear to be on the safe side.
The Bottom Line: Don’t Overthink Sparkling Water
The takeaway here: The cons of drinking sparkling water are pretty minimal unless you fall into one of the groups mentioned above. So go ahead, crack open a can, and toast to a healthy and hydrated day.
