Do you drink too much sparkling water? These are the risks

Spread the love

Read Time:1 Minute, 53 Second

Drinking sparkling water is generally considered safe and can be a refreshing alternative to still water. However, there are some potential risks and considerations to be aware of:

1. Dental Health

Acidity: Sparkling water is slightly acidic due to the carbonic acid formed when carbon dioxide is dissolved in water. Although less acidic than soft drinks, this can still contribute to tooth enamel erosion over time, especially with frequent consumption.
Added Flavors: Some flavoured sparkling waters contain citric acid or other acidic additives, which can further increase the risk of enamel erosion.

2. Digestive Issues

Bloating and Gas: The carbonation in sparkling water can cause bloating and gas, particularly for those with sensitive stomachs or digestive conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Heartburn: Some people may experience increased acid reflux or heartburn after drinking sparkling water, as the carbonation can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to escape into the esophagus.

3. Bone Health

Calcium Loss (Myth): There has been concern that carbonated beverages, including sparkling water, could lead to bone density loss by causing calcium to leach from the bones. However, research does not support this for sparkling water. This concern mainly applies to colas that contain phosphoric acid, not carbonated water.

4. Weight Gain (Potential Misconception)

Appetite Stimulation: Some studies suggest that the carbonation in sparkling water could stimulate appetite by increasing the hunger hormone ghrelin levels. However, the effect is not significant and varies among individuals.

5. Artificial Additives

Artificial Sweeteners and Colors: Some sparkling water brands may contain artificial sweeteners, colours, or preservatives, which can have health risks, including allergic reactions or digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals.

6. Impact on Hydration

Hydration: While sparkling water is hydrating, some people find it less effective at quenching thirst than still water, which might lead to lower overall water consumption.

7. Cost

Expense: Regular consumption of sparkling water can be more expensive than still water, which might be a consideration for some.

Conclusion

For most people, drinking sparkling water in moderation is unlikely to pose significant health risks. However, if you have concerns about dental health or digestive issues or are sensitive to additives, it might be wise to limit your intake or choose plain, unflavored sparkling water.