Sparkling water is still water that has been infused with carbon dioxide. It comes in a number of different forms, with the drink known by several different names as a result. Whether you call it sparkling water, carbonated water, or fizzy water, this bubbly beverage offers another way to hydrate when aiming to hit those daily water intake goals. But could those bubbles be doing more harm to your health than good?

There are many advantages and disadvantages to enjoying sparkling water on a regular basis. Here we take a closer look at this popular water-based beverage to reveal whether it’s good or bad for your health.

The pros

Sparkling water unlocks a number of health benefits – if it is drunk in moderation. Its mineral content is a major pro, but not all sparkling water is created equal.

Natural sparkling mineral waters like Perrier and San Pellegrino have the most beneficial mineral and sulphur compound content. The drink’s bicarbonate content has also been found to help maintain a healthy pH in the blood to aid blood sugar management.

In addition, a study found that drinking sparkling water aided digestion to prevent constipation and conditions like dyspepsia. Those experiencing motion sickness when travelling by car, bus, plane or boat have found comfort and reduced symptoms by drinking sparkling water too.

Although often mentioned in the same breath, sparkling water is a healthier alternative to soda water. Soda water contains unhealthy additives like sugar to increase the risk of various health conditions, including heart disease and diabetes. Contrary to popular belief, sparkling water does not affect bone health.

The cons

Whilst drinking sparkling water in moderation unlocks a number of great rewards, drinking too much can be bad for health. The acidic nature of sparkling water can affect the pH of your body as well as give vital organs like the kidneys and lungs more work to do in order to remove the excess carbon dioxide created by the drink.

The carbon dioxide in sparkling water is so acidic it stimulates your nerves as much as mustard. Another concern is the effect the acid found in sparkling water has on dental health.

Whilst sparkling drinks may not be as damaging to dental health as sweet beverages like soda and fizzy pop, the carbonation of sparkling water makes it erosive if drunk in large quantities over a long period of time. Prima offers their advice for drinking sparkling water and maintaining good dental health:

“Johnson advises drinking with a straw to help reduce the amount of acid your teeth are exposed to, and if you are especially concerned about your dental health then seek out further advice from your dentist. On the whole, while drinking sparkling water is by no means as bad for your teeth as sugary fizzy drinks, it’s important that you enjoy it in moderation to prevent long-term damage to your teeth.”

Sparkling water was found to be more erosive when drunk ice cold and bubbly, which is generally the way most people like to drink the beverage.

Still or sparkling?

Still, filtered water will always be the best choice when hydrating. Here at Total Soft Water, however, we believe in mixing things up. You can enjoy an interesting water-rich diet and unlock the many benefits that go hand-in-hand with great hydration.

Whilst sparkling water should never be your default drink, enjoying this bubbly beverage in moderation is key. Carbonating your own filtered water at home with a SodaStream or similar gadget will ensure the sparkling water you enjoy is truly healthy, sugar-free and calorie-free.

Want to jazz up your homemade sparkling water some more? Try our summer-inspired infused water recipes for size.