Sparkling water contains dissolved carbon dioxide (CO2) gas, which makes the water fizzy. The carbonation of sparkling water can occur naturally or artificially.
Sparkling or carbonated water forms naturally when volcanic gases dissolve in springs or wells of natural water. This naturally occurring sparkling water often contains minerals such as sodium or calcium.
To artificially carbonate water, pressurized CO2 is injected into the water, forming bubbles. Artificially carbonated water may naturally contain minerals, or it may have minerals added to it.
There has been some debate regarding the health implications of sparkling water. Read on to discover the possible risks of drinking sparkling water and how it compares to other carbonated drinks.
Is carbonated water a health risk?
Water is an essential resource that all people need to live. A person cannot survive without water, as it is required for many processes within the body. However, certain properties of sparkling water may be associated with health risks.
Calcium loss
There are theories that carbonated beverages can cause calcium loss in bones. Researchers believe that phosphorus, which is present in some natural soda water, reduces the amount of calcium that the body can absorb. According to a study in 2006Trusted Source, cola beverages are associated with low bone mineral density in women.
However, carbonated water does not contain phosphorus. In addition, most people get sufficient phosphorus from food, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH)Trusted Source.
According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, certain carbonated mineral spring waters can help improve bone health. The organization notes that carbonated drinks should not take the place of calcium-rich beverages, such as milk.
Tooth decay
Sparkling water, whether natural or artificial, contains CO2, which makes it slightly acidic. Acid in food and drinks can erode the hard protective layer of the tooth, known as the enamel.
In a 2017 studyTrusted Source, researchers found that artificially carbonated water eroded tooth enamel in a laboratory setting. The erosion of enamel increased when the water had higher levels of carbonation.
In addition, certain sparkling waters may have citric acid added to them to enhance the flavor. Citric acid can also increase the acidity of the carbonated water, which can lead to erosion. The addition of sugar in some carbonated water also increases the erosion effect on enamel.
A person may be able to limit the eroding effect of carbonated water by drinking through a straw. Doing so can prevent the sparkling water from touching the teeth, as it moves more directly into the throat.