Is Soda Water the Same as Sparkling Water? Differences Between Carbonated Drinks

The Difference Between Soda Water and Sparkling Water

With the rise in popularity of sparkling water brands like LaCroix, many people are curious about the difference between sparkling water and soda water. Though they may seem similar at first glance, there are some notable differences between these two types of carbonated beverages.

What is Soda Water?

Soda water, also known as carbonated water, is simply water that has been infused with carbon dioxide gas. The process involves pressurizing regular water with CO2, which causes the dissolution of the gas into the water. This gives soda water its bubbly, effervescent texture.

Soda water originated in the late 18th century as a means of imitating naturally carbonated spring waters, which were believed to have health benefits at the time. The first artificially carbonated waters were created by scientists using carbon dioxide produced in chemical reactions or from natural sources like limestone.

These days, most soda water is commercially manufactured. The water is filtered and goes through a carbonation process to become fizzy. Soda water contains no sweeteners, calories, or other ingredients - it is just water and food-grade carbon dioxide.

What is Sparkling Water?

Sparkling water is also made by infusing water with carbon dioxide. This gives it the bubbly, effervescent texture that people enjoy. However, sparkling waters have added natural flavors and essences to enhance the taste.

Common flavorings used in sparkling water include citrus fruits like lemon, lime, and orange, berries, herbs, and even exotic botanicals like ginger and hibiscus. The ingredients vary between brands, but most use natural flavorings rather than artificial or sugary additives.

Sparkling water has been commercially produced since the 1700s. However, it did not gain significant popularity until the rise of brands like Perrier and San Pellegrino in the 1970s and 1980s. The sparkling water category has exploded since then, with flavored varieties surpassing sales of plain soda water.

The Main Differences Between Soda Water and Sparkling Water

While soda water and sparkling water are both made by infusing water with carbon dioxide, there are some key differences between the two:

1. Flavorings

The main difference between soda water and sparkling water is that soda water does not contain any added flavors, while sparkling water is flavored with natural essences. Soda water is just carbonated water, nothing more.

2. Branding

Sparkling water is sold under brand names like LaCroix, Perrier, and Polar. Soda water is more generic - it can simply be called soda water, carbonated water, or seltzer water.

3. Calorie content

Soda water has zero calories, while some sparkling waters may contain trace amounts depending on the flavor used. However, both are considered virtually calorie-free beverages.

4. Carbonation

Sparkling water sometimes has less carbonation than regular soda water. While soda water is intensely bubbly, some sparkling water brands intentionally dial back the carbonation a bit to make a softer, more drinkable beverage.

5. Sodium content

Soda water has added sodium while most sparkling waters don't. The sodium in soda water is used as a preservative and flavor stabilizer. Sparkling waters get their flavor from natural essences instead.

Is Sparkling Water As Hydrating As Regular Water?

One common question people have about sparkling water is whether it hydrates as well as regular still water. The short answer is yes - sparkling water is just as hydrating as regular water.

Sparkling Water Hydration Explained

While the carbonation makes sparkling beverages feel different in your mouth, the fizz itself does not impact hydration levels. The carbon dioxide in sparkling drinks quickly dissipates from the water once you drink it.

What's left behind is just regular water, which your body absorbs and uses for hydration like any other water source. The carbonation does not inhibit water absorption in any way.

In fact, a study by the American College of Sports Medicine found that carbonation did not have any effect on fluid retention or hydration status. Participants drank either plain water or carbonated water - their hydration markers were the same regardless.

Benefits of Sparkling Water for Hydration

Not only is sparkling water just as hydrating as still water, it may even have some advantages:

• More palatable - The carbonation and flavors make sparkling water more enjoyable to drink for many people.
• Greater consumption - The enjoyable taste leads people to drink more sparkling water overall, increasing their total hydration.
• Fast absorption - Carbonation speeds up fluid absorption compared to still water, helping you rehydrate faster.

So feel confident that switching your go-to drink to sparkling can help you meet daily hydration needs. Just avoid heavily sugared sodas, which can have dehydrating effects.

Does Sparkling Water Affect Dental Health?

Another common concern with sparkling drinks is their impact on dental health. However, current research suggests sparkling water is no worse for your teeth than regular water.

Carbonation and Tooth Enamel

There were initial concerns that the carbonic acid formed when water mixes with CO2 could erode tooth enamel like the citric and phosphoric acids in sugary sodas. However, studies have found that carbonated water does not pose a risk for dental erosion.

Sparkling water's pH is generally between 3 and 4, which is around neutral and much less acidic than sodas. Levels below 3 increase the risk of eroding enamel over time. The carbonic acid also quickly dissipates as the drink goes flat, neutralizing any acidity.

Sugar Content

Plain sparkling water does not contain any added sugars that can lead to cavities or other dental decay. However, some flavored varieties do contain natural sweeteners like sugar or fruit juice concentrate.

Check ingredient labels and select sugar-free versions whenever possible. The American Dental Association recommends limiting both regular and diet sodas, and instead opting for sparkling water for a satisfying carbonated drink that is teeth-friendly.

Does Sparkling Water Cause Digestive Issues?

Sparkling water is generally considered safe for most people to drink as part of a healthy diet. However, the carbonation can cause mild digestive side effects in some individuals, especially when consumed in large amounts.

Bloating and Gas

The bubbles in sparkling water contain air that can get trapped in the digestive tract, potentially leading to gas, bloating, and flatulence. This is more likely if you gulp down carbonated beverages too quickly.

Drinking sparkling water with meals may increase bloating as well, by boosting air swallowing. If you have a sensitive stomach, you may want to moderate your intake of fizzy water and avoid large amounts around mealtimes when possible.

Constipation

There have been some reports that sparkling water consumption can worsen constipation in susceptible individuals. Carbonated water may increase swallowing of air, which could contribute to constipation symptoms.

If you find your constipation gets worse when drinking sparkling beverages, try cutting back your intake. Swap in some regular still water instead. Also be sure to eat plenty of high-fiber foods and stay active to keep your digestive system regular.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Some people with IBS find that drinking carbonated beverages appears to trigger their symptoms, which may include abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation. Every individual can have different triggers though.

If sparkling water gives you problems, limit your intake and opt for still water instead. Other beverage choices may also be better tolerated, like herbal tea, bone broth, or diluted fruit juices.

Diverticulitis

Individuals with diverticulitis are often advised to avoid carbonation, as the gas bubbles may contribute to diverticula inflammation in susceptible individuals. Plain water is the best option if you have this digestive condition.

The Bottom Line

Sparkling water offers a tasty alternative to plain water that can help increase hydration intake for most people. While it provides hydration just like regular water, the carbonation may cause mild digestive side effects in some individuals prone to gas, bloating, or IBS symptoms.

Moderating intake and avoiding excessive carbonation around mealtimes can help reduce digestive discomfort. Overall though, sparkling water is considered safe to drink as part of a balanced diet. Just avoid heavily sugared soda varieties to limit the risk of dental problems.

Soda water and sparkling water do have some differences, including added flavors in sparkling water and higher sodium content in soda water. But both provide hydration from the water content and are low-calorie beverage options in comparison to sugary sodas and juices. Either sparkling water or soda water can help meet daily fluid needs.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.