The Rise of Sparkling Water in America
Sparkling or carbonated water has seen a huge surge in popularity in recent years. With more Americans opting for healthier drink choices, sales of sparkling water have skyrocketed. The growth has been led by brands highlighting the refreshing, hydrating qualities of fizzy water as a zero-calorie alternative to sugar-sweetened beverages. But with so many seltzer brands on the market, how do you choose the right one for you? And does the carbonation have any impact on hydration?
Why We Love Bubbles
There are many reasons sparkling water has become the drink of choice for millions of Americans trying to cut back on sugary sodas and juices. The bubbly sensation of carbonated water can provide a more exciting drinking experience. The crisp, clean taste is incredibly refreshing and satisfying when you're thirsty. Brands like La Croix, Perrier, and Poland Spring have capitalized on these sensory qualities and our desire for healthier picks.
The nostalgia of enjoying a fizzy drink may also play a role. The act of opening a cold can or bottle and hearing the iconic "psst" sound brings back fond memories for many people. It may remind you of special occasions or family parties where soda was reserved as a treat. Sparkling water allows you to relive some of those happy fizzy drink moments, but without all the sugar and calories weighing you down.
Sparkling Water for Hydration?
When it comes to hydration, most nutrition experts give sparkling water a thumbs up. The carbonation adds sensory appeal, making you more likely to drink enough fluid compared to boring old tap water. And staying properly hydrated is vital for energy, brain function, digestion, and regulating body temperature.
Some people worry whether those bubbles somehow cancel out the hydrating qualities of water. But unless you have a very sensitive digestive system, that carbonation gets absorbed very quickly in your stomach. So sparkling water contributes just as effectively to your daily fluid needs as regular water.
Watching Sodium Content
One thing to keep in mind is that some popular sparkling water brands contain added sodium or fruit flavors. Spindrift seltzers, for example, use real squeezed fruit containing natural sugars. Brands like La Croix have no sweeteners but use sodium bicarbonate to achieve their bubbly effect. Moderation is key if you regularly drink these, but for most healthy adults having one or two a day should not cause any issues.
Finding Your Perfect Sparkling Water
With so many different brands and flavor options out there, it may take some experimentation to discover your ideal sparkling water. Here are some of the main factors to consider when seeking out the best bubbles:
Carbonation Level
Fizzy waters span a wide spectrum from gentle bubbling to intense carbonation that dances on your tongue. Subtle sparking provides a delicate mouthfeel, while highly-carbonated waters offer a sharper sensation. It comes down to personal taste. Try a few different options to discover your preferred bubble style.
Natural vs. Artificial Flavors
Sparkling waters take on flavor identities ranging from fruity concoctions to hints of cucumber, strawberry, lemon, or other tantalizing tastes. Some brands use only natural flavors from real fruit, while other products contain artificial flavorings. If keeping things light and natural is important to you, check labels to see what goes into those flavor infusions.
Sodium Content
Unflavored sparkling waters typically include some sodium from added minerals or sodium bicarbonate used to produce bubbles. As mentioned earlier, drinking a couple seltzers a day is generally fine for healthy people but could be an issue if on a strict low-sodium diet. Check your brand's sodium content to stay within doctor-recommended limits.
Convenience and Price
From single-serving cans to bulk case packs, carbonated waters are sold in a wide range of packaging styles and quantities to suit different budgets and lifestyles. Think about when and where you typically reach for a refreshing beverage and look for portable options like slim cans or plastic bottles to bring on the go. Multi-packs tend to offer the lowest per-unit cost if buying in bulk.
Top American Sparkling Water Brands
The U.S. sparkling water industry has absolutely exploded with new players entering the market and sales numbers going through the roof year after year. Here is a look at a few of the popular brands making big waves in the world of bubbly waters:
LaCroix
This household name pioneered the sparkling water surge over the past decade with their colorfully-branded cans in flavors like Key Lime, Tangerine, Pure, and Beach Plum. Their naturally essenced waters cut back significantly on sweeteners compared to mainstream soda. Over 20 unique flavor options give fans plenty to savor.
Perrier
Recognized worldwide in their iconic green bottles, Perrier may be the OG sparkling mineral water. Sourced from a spring in Southern France since 1898, tiny bubbles lift distinctive notes of minerals with subtle effervescence. Salted lemon and lime flavors add citrus appeal.
Polar
Offering a wider spectrum of flavor infusions like Triple Berry, Cranberry Lemonade, Arctic Summer, and their unique Seltzer'ade line, Polar Beverages brings New England charm with iconic polar bear mascot. Their vibrant fruity fizzers deliver bolder flavor than many competitors.
Spindrift
This rising brand adds a culinary spin, using only freshly-squeezed fruit juice to achieve delicious flavors like Half Tea & Half Lemon, Pineapple, Blackberry, Cucumber, Orange Mango, and Grapefruit. Real ingredients mean a hint of natural sweetness compared to purely unsweetened seltzers.
Topo Chico
Imported from Monterrey, Mexico since 1895, this legendary mineral water gets its lively bubbles from ceramic-filtered spring water naturally high in minerals. Their iconic glass bottle and bottle cap shape are instantly recognizable. Tangy and refreshing, it's easy to see why Topo Chico has been a favorite along the border for generations.
Enjoy Endless Options with American Sparkling Waters
Still or sparkling, plain or flavored, there's a fizzy water for every taste as the category continues rising rapidly in popularity with Americans seeking healthier refreshment. The future looks very bubbly indeed with so many brands competing with new innovations, expanded flavor menus, and creative profiles. Just be sure to enjoy your effervescent drinks in moderation as part of a balanced diet and active lifestyle.
FAQs
Does sparkling water hydrate as well as regular water?
Yes. The carbonation has no impact on the hydrating qualities of water. Sparkling water contributes just as effectively to meeting your daily fluid intake needs as regular tap water.
Is sparkling water bad for your teeth?
Excessive consumption of acidic carbonated drinks could contribute to enamel erosion over time. Moderation is key. Drink sparkling water as part of a balanced diet along with plenty of plain water for dental health.
What is the healthiest sparkling water brand?
Brands that use natural flavors and minimal added sodium or sweeteners, like LaCroix and Spindrift, make good choices for healthy sparkling water options. Check ingredient labels and sodium content to compare.
Can I make my own sparkling water at home?
Yes! Use a soda maker device or simply add a splash of juice or fruit to plain seltzer water to DIY delicious and refreshing flavored sparkling waters economically from home.
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.
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