Made by mixing carbon dioxide to water under pressure, carbonated water or sparkling water is a low-calorie substitute to sugar sodas and other similar types of beverages. However, there certainly are concerns associated with the idea of drinking sparkling water. Experts are of the view that carbonation promotes calcium loss in bones and leads to many problems, including tooth decay, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and more. Let's find out if these claims are valid.

Does Sparkling Water Make You Fat?

Many people believe sparkling water can make you gain weight even though it does not contain sugar, calories, and flavor. However, the truth is that plain carbonated water has no direct connection with weight gain. This is true so long as you know your carbonated water does not contain any bottled seltzers and flavor enhancers. Carbonated water may contain natural acid, sodium, sweeteners, flavors, and other additives. Those hidden calories and extra sodium can make you fat over time. That is the reason why you need to pay a close attention to the labels and know what you are buying in the form of sparkling water.

Choose Sparkling Water Carefully

Does sparkling water make you fat? No, it does not, so long as you know what is included in your water. To avoid dealing with any issue, it is important that you always opt for a no-calorie sparkling variety. Carbonated water helps you reach your goal of at least 13 cups of fluids a day.

While natural varieties of carbonated water are available, it is possible to make it by dissolving carbon dioxide in regular water. Keep in mind that carbonated water you create is going to be more acidic as compared to plain water. Still, it hydrates and refreshes your body equally well.

Since there are different varieties available, you need to be careful when choosing carbonated water. From mineral water and carbonated water to tonic water and club soda, all these varieties are enough to confuse you. It is better to educate yourself more about these options before you go any further.

• You will notice that mineral water is bubbly, but seltzer water is actually carbonated water.
• Similarly, club soda has potassium bicarbonate and a small amount of other minerals, whereas tonic water is like sparkling water but with the addition of strong-flavored quinine and sugar.
• While mineral and seltzer water are the healthiest options, they may or may not contain additives and flavors. Mineral water is usually available in flavors such as grapefruit and lemon-lime, whereas seltzer water is available in a variety of flavors, including cherry, pomegranate, raspberry, citrus, and vanilla. Be sure to check the nutrition label to know if you are adding any extra calories or sugar to your diet.

More Health Concerns about Sparkling Water

Does sparkling water make you fat? You already know that sparkling water has nothing to do with weight gain if you know it does not have any extra calories, sodium, or flavors added to it. However, many people have other concerns as well. For instance:

1. Carbonated Water Increases Calcium Loss

The claim is not true. Research conducted in 2006 to identify the effects of carbonated beverages on bone mineral density showed that carbonation has nothing to do with a loss of bone mineral density. The research also found that cola beverages might cause calcium loss in bones and that was mainly because of phosphorus included in those beverages.

2. Carbonated Water Causes Tooth Decay

That is not the case, so long as you know you are drinking plain carbonated water without any sugar or citric acid added to it. You are likely to deal with tooth decay and other similar problems though if you drink soda and other carbonated beverages that have extra sugar and other added ingredients. These drinks contain sugars and acids that not only affect your tooth but also increase your cancer risk. To avoid any issue, just make sure to drink plain carbonated water, which is prepared by adding pressurized carbon dioxide to regular water.

3. Carbonated Water Causes IBS

Again, it is not true that carbonated water has direct connections with the development of irritable bowel syndrome. You need to keep in mind that excessive use of carbonated water may cause gas and bloating. If you already have IBS, drinking carbonated water may lead to IBS flare-ups. If that is the case, you will be better off staying away from carbonated water and sticking with plain water instead.