The Health Benefits of Drinking Sparkling Water Regularly

Potential Health Benefits of Sparkling Water

Have you ever wondered why so many people are making the switch from sugary sodas to sparkling water? Here's why you should consider it a much better choice for your daily beverage:

It May Improve Digestion

We've all heard the adage, "you are what you eat," but did you know that sparkling water can also play an important role in improving your digestion? That's right! Sparkling water is naturally carbonated, which encourages digestion by stimulating your gut and enabling it to break down waste quickly. 

Additionally, its effervescent properties increase saliva production and assist in swallowing and breaking down many foods, thus helping your body better absorb essential nutrients.

It May Reduce Constipation

Studies have shown that drinking varying amounts of sparkling water per day can increase the frequency and ease of bowel movements. This is likely due to the carbonation in the sparkling water, which causes distention of the intestines and encourages peristaltic motion - contributing to smoother digestion. 

Additionally, sparkling water helps cleanse and flush out excess toxins from the body, providing a mild laxative effect for people with constipation.

It May Support Weight Loss Efforts

Reaching your weight loss goals can be difficult at times, but sparkling water is an easy and delicious way to jump-start your journey! 

Studies have proven that replacing sugary beverages with sparkling water can help significantly in reducing calories and fighting against weight gain. In addition to calorie reduction, sparkling water makes you feel fuller and eliminates sugary cravings, making you less likely to snack.

It May Improve Oral Health

Not only is sparkling water calorie-free and devoid of sugars, but drinking sparkling water also has the added benefit of improving oral health! 

Its carbonation can help balance your mouth's pH level and strengthen your teeth's enamel. Additionally, a study found that sparkling mineral water is 100 times less damaging to human teeth than soft drinks.

It May Improve Bone Health

One study has suggested that sodium-rich sparkling water may improve bone health due to better calcium retention. This can help to improve the balance of minerals in the body, enhancing bone density and making them stronger. 

Although more research needs to be done to verify these findings, there's no harm in giving sparkling water a try if you're looking for ways to get healthier.

A Great Alternative to Sugary Drinks

Sparkling water is a great way to quench your thirst while avoiding sugar overload. Most varieties are calorie-free and carbonated, which can help add excitement to your hydration routine. Plus, sparkling waters often come in different flavors that can add an interesting note to your drink.

A Good Source of Minerals and Electrolytes

Many people don't realize that sparkling water has electrolytes and minerals like sodium, magnesium, and potassium, which help to boost hydration. It's also calorie-free and won't raise the blood sugar levels like sodas with artificial sweeteners or added sugars can.

Potential Drawbacks of Sparkling Water

Though sparkling water has a multitude of health benefits, it may be worth considering that there are potential drawbacks to long-term consumption.

It May Cause Dental Erosion

Many sparkling water brands contain citric acid, which can wear away tooth enamel over time if consumed in large amounts. But don't let that dissuade you from enjoying a cold glass – there are ways to prevent dental erosion caused by carbonated water.

For starters, using a straw when you drink carbonated beverages helps prevent direct contact between the liquid and your teeth. It is also helpful to rinse your mouth with plain tap or bottled water after drinking sparkling water to remove leftover residue on your teeth that could lead to dental damage over time. 

Be sure to cut back on sugary, sparkling drinks since they can speed up the eroding process. Ultimately, it's important to practice good oral hygiene if you frequently enjoy sparkling water as part of your healthy hydration routine.

It May Contribute to Weight Gain if Flavored or Sweetened

Drinking sparkling water might seem like a guilt-free way to quench your thirst, but it could contribute to extra pounds on the scale if you opt for flavored and/or sweetened varieties. 

Studies have found that artificially-sweetened beverages and drinks with added flavors can increase caloric intake, cravings for sweet food, higher body mass index (BMI), and even weight gain. This means that plain sparkling water is probably still the best choice for a relatively low-calorie beverage. 

But if you're missing the sweetness or flavor of other fruity and carbonated drinks, switching your drink of choice to unsweetened sparkling water may help cut back on some calories while giving you a bit of satisfaction from sparkling bubbles.

It May Cause Bloating and Gas in Some Individuals

For those with particularly sensitive digestive systems, sparkling water can lead to bloating and gas due to carbonation. 

It's worth noting that this isn't the case for everyone who drinks it – many people can enjoy sparkling water without any negative side effects. But if you find yourself experiencing discomfort after drinking it, then perhaps opt for an alternate beverage instead.

Conclusion

So, should you start sipping on sparkling water regularly? Overall, it can have some health benefits when consumed in moderation, but it is important to be mindful of any potential drawbacks. 

Talk to your doctor or dietitian if you are concerned about your sparkling water intake. They can help you make the best decision for your unique needs and health goals.

If you're interested in trying out sparkling water, GlacierFresh has a great Sparkin Cold Soda Maker that can help you get started. With its easy-to-use design and reasonable price, it's the perfect way to make delicious, cold carbonated drinks at home!