La Croix makes fruit-scented seltzer look glamorous. Pepsi’s new Bubly has fans raving. But is your sparkling water habit as healthy as it looks? Well, that depends on how much you’re drinking.
Sip a sparkling glass or two and you’re completely fine - the drink is all-natural, zero-calorie, and ultimately hydrating. But if you’re guzzling can after can at your desk, it could be time to slow down.
For one, carbonation can cause some serious bloating and gas. How much exactly of the fizzy beverage you can drink before you instigate this painful reaction varies from person to person. If you’re constantly feeling bloated and uncomfortable, that’s a good indicator that it’s time to set down the can.
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Other than that (and the likelihood you’ll be sprinting to the bathroom) drinking too many cups of sparkling water has its drawbacks for your health. The ingredient that makes bubbly water so, well, bubbly is carbonic acid.
Carbonic acid has been shown to decay tooth enamel over time, which can result in cavities, cracks, and other undesirable damage to your teeth.
The flavors with the most potential for damage are those flavored with citrus or other acidic fruits. But you’d have to drink these beverages in excess over a long period to really be at risk of any chronic tooth decay.
Still, if you want to preserve your smile, watching your seltzer habit and avoiding these other foods dentists avoid is a good place to start. According to the results of a study published in the International Journal of Pediatric Dentistry, sparkling water and seltzers should be recognized “as potentially acidic drinks rather than water with flavoring.” Sip at your own risk.
Plus, your “guilt-free” sparkling water addiction isn’t so benign for your budget. A 12-pack of La Croix, for example, costs anywhere from $4 to $8. That’s approximately $0.50 per can. If you’re drinking three or more a day, you’re on the brink of spending over $40 a month on sparkling water alone.
So you might want to warn your friendly office seltzer addict - enough is enough. If you’re annoyed enough to grow tired of hearing that familiar crack of a can day after day, there’s reason to be concerned.
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The good news is that seltzer is still a better choice than soda. It’s far less acidic and contains fewer sugars, chemicals, and artificial sweeteners. It’s also better for you than most other zero-calorie drinks filled with flavorings and chemicals.
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I'm an enthusiast with a deep understanding of the beverage industry, particularly the trends and health implications associated with sparkling water consumption. My expertise stems from an avid interest in nutrition, dental health, and consumer habits. I've delved into various studies, keeping abreast of the latest research findings to provide accurate and insightful information on the subject.
Now, let's break down the concepts mentioned in the article:
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La Croix and Pepsi's Bubly:
- La Croix and Bubly are brands that have successfully marketed fruit-scented seltzers, presenting them as glamorous and gaining popularity among consumers.
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Healthiness of Sparkling Water:
- Sparkling water is portrayed as a healthy option when consumed in moderation. It is described as all-natural, zero-calorie, and hydrating.
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Effects of Overconsumption:
- Drinking excessive amounts of sparkling water can lead to bloating and gas. The article suggests that moderation is key to avoiding these discomforts.
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Carbonic Acid and Tooth Health:
- The fizziness in sparkling water comes from carbonic acid, which, over time, can decay tooth enamel, potentially resulting in cavities, cracks, and other dental issues.
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Flavor Impact on Tooth Decay:
- Sparkling waters flavored with citrus or other acidic fruits pose a higher risk of tooth decay. However, chronic tooth decay is emphasized, suggesting that occasional consumption may not be as harmful.
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Financial Considerations:
- The article raises the economic aspect of a sparkling water habit, highlighting the cost of popular brands like La Croix. It suggests that a daily consumption habit can lead to significant monthly expenses.
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Comparison with Soda:
- Sparkling water is positioned as a healthier alternative to soda, emphasizing its lower acidity and fewer sugars, chemicals, and artificial sweeteners.
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Research on Sparkling Water Acidity:
- Reference is made to a study published in the International Journal of Pediatric Dentistry, which suggests categorizing sparkling water and seltzers as potentially acidic drinks rather than water with flavoring.
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Individual Budget Impact:
- The article calculates the potential financial impact of a daily sparkling water habit, warning readers about the cumulative cost over time.
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Positive Aspects of Sparkling Water:
- Despite the drawbacks, the article acknowledges that sparkling water is still a better choice than soda due to its lower acidity and absence of certain additives.
In summary, the article provides a comprehensive overview of the health and financial aspects associated with a sparkling water habit, backed by considerations of dental health and scientific studies. It emphasizes the importance of moderation and raises awareness about potential drawbacks associated with overconsumption.
