Sparkling water is getting more and more popular as consumer preferences switch towards healthier food and drink choices. It’s certainly better for you than soda and diet soda, but is it actually a good and healthy option?
Sparkling water is mineral water with natural minerals and carbonation (though some companies add carbonation for more bubbles). On the other hand, seltzer water’s bubbles are added artificially and there are no other added ingredients like minerals. There’s also club soda, which is in fact seltzer water with added minerals and sodium. Which one should you drink?
In general, all the options are fine as long as they don’t contain added flavors and other artificial components or fructose syrup (which technically turns them into sodas). Some studies have found that sparkling water can do harm to teeth, but that’s only applicable to waters that contain citric acid.
“Seltzer water is a fun and effective way to hydrate, particularly for those who wouldn’t drink water otherwise,” dietitian Marisa Moore told How Stuff Works. “If you have any digestive issues or effects from seltzer water then you might cut back or even steer clear of it. Otherwise, I’d say consider enjoying your seltzer with a meal instead of solo or rinsing with plain water afterwards.”
