Sparkling water contains many healthy minerals and aids digestion, but some are more acidic than others.
- Sparkling water is rich in minerals, which is good for your health.
- But some studies highlight negative effects of drinking sparkling water, such as weight gain.
- If you drink about a liter and a half of water per day, bubbles should not be a problem.
It’s an alternative to soda for some, a way to drink more for others: sparkling water is a must. But can we replace plain water with its bubble version? Is it really good for your health?
Health: the benefits of minerals present in sparkling water
“Sparkling waters are very interesting and provide a health effect, because they are the waters richest in minerals, can we read on the website of theresearch institute of well-being of medicine and sports health (IRBMS). Sparkling waters, due to their richness in minerals, can compensate for various deficiencies (for example magnesium), and they are also very useful in recovering from physical effort.”The bubbles would also facilitate digestion, by stimulating the secretion of gastric juices.
These minerals are also beneficial for preventing certain health problems. According to this studydrinking sparkling water would help prevent the formation of kidney stones, which can lead to renal colicwhich causes intense pain in the lumbar and abdominal region.
“Studies indicate that mineral-rich waters – including those containing carbonic acid – are beneficial for regulating blood pressure,” explain The Conversationwhose article explains in particular that good hydration is important for heart health.
The negative points of sparkling water on health
According to a study published in the journal Obesity Research and Clinical Practice, drinks containing carbon dioxide promote weight gain. Their consumption would stimulate the hunger hormone, ghrelin, and therefore encourage people to eat more.
Sparkling water – and more broadly soft drinks – would also be responsible, according to this studyincrease the risk of stress urinary incontinence or, in women over 40, cause overactivity of the bladder.
Last negative point: the sparkling water produced by the carbonation machines would have a low pH, around 3.58 according to this study. The acidity of the drink depends on the pH and 3.58 is acidic for water because lemon juice has a pH of 2. “Below 4, the drink presents a risk of enamel erosion”, can we read in this article.
If water consumption is normal, approximately one and a half liters per day, it is entirely possible to only drink sparkling water. On the other hand, if you drink two to three liters, it is preferable to alternate with plain water so as not to have too much mineral intake.
