For years people have argued over whether or not carbonated water is a healthy option or something to be thrown in the bin.
There have been countless claims around the benefits and the dangers associated with drinking it, so much so that it has become difficult to tell myth from fact.
Carbonated water is simply water that has had pressurized carbon dioxide gas added to it, causing it to create that refreshing bubbly fizz so many people love.
But is there such a thing as drinking too much fizzy water?
We’re breaking down the evidence to find out just how good, or bad, the drink is.
Is it a good alternative to soft drink?
Doctors agree that swapping out soft drinks for carbonated water is an excellent move. Soft drinks, like Coke, Lemonade and other fizzies, are full of sugar and chemicals and have high levels of acidity – all of which contributes to a very unhealthy body. Carbonated water has a low level of acidity and cuts out all the nasties, saving you on calories and harmful additives. A study conducted in Japan also found that it aided weight loss in women who drank a glass of sparkling water before they ate in the morning. The gas from the bubbles made the women feel fuller for longer, causing them to eat less and lose weight in the process. So all in all, it’s a great alternative to soft drink and can help you shed the kilos, too.
Will it give you stomach ulcers?
While the acidity in soft drinks has been proven to cause stomach ulcers, it looks like you’re safe if you stick to carbonated water instead. However, studies have found that if you have a preexisting condition, where your stomach lining is already damaged, you should avoid drinking carbonated water as it can irritate your gut and cause problems.
Does it damage your bones?
There were once whispering about carbonated drinks causing damage to bones and affecting density and calcium levels. However, a 2006 study found that while this is true of sugary soft drinks, people who stick to sparkling water are in the clear.
Will it rot your teeth?
In short, the answer is no. Since plain carbonated water contains no citric acid or sugar there is little there to do any damage to your pearly whites.
Is it as hydrating as water?
According to the experts, sparkling water is just as hydrating as still water so you can feel free to guzzle it down when you’re in need of a thirst-quenching drink. Keep in mind though that carbonated water does have a slightly higher level of acidity than still water so reach for the regular stuff more often if you can.