Did you know that an adult needs to drink at least eight glasses of water per day? That’s close to two liters of water, which is the minimum required to keep you hydrated and healthy. If that sounds impossible to achieve, don’t worry too much; 20% of your regular water requirements are met by the fruits and vegetables you eat.
However, today, most people prefer to sip carbonated water (though it costs more), but the question is, “Does it keep you more hydrated than regular water?” In this blog, let’s understand more about carbonated water and whether it keeps you hydrated.
What is Carbonated Water?
Carbonated water, also known as sparkling water, soda water, or fizzy water, is simply water that is infused with carbon dioxide gas under a certain pressure. Moreover, that fizz you feel while drinking is CO₂ bubbles that tickle your taste buds. There are different types of carbonated water: club soda, where carbonated water is added with minerals; seltzer, which is plain carbonated water with no added minerals; sparkling mineral water, which is naturally carbonated from a spring; and tonic water, which contains added sugar and quinine.
How Does It Hydrate You More?
Carbonated water does not hydrate you more than regular water, but it hydrates you just as well According to several studies, carbonated water is just as effective at keeping you hydrated as flat or regular water. The carbon dioxide doesn’t affect the body’s ability to absorb water because it is still H₂O at the end of the day. So you can reach for your favorite bubbly without sacrificing hydration.
Understanding the Difference Between Carbonated Water and Regular Water
Carbonated water is also known as sparkling water, which is made by adding carbon dioxide and some minerals like sodium chloride, potassium sulfate, and sodium bicarbonate.
When it comes to regular water, it is plain H₂O without any added gases, sugars, or flavour. It is what flows from your tap, what’s bottled in the store, and what your body craves every day.
| Features | Regular Water | Carbonated Water |
| Fizziness | Regular water has flat water with no bubbles | Carbonated Water has fizziness due to CO₂ |
| Additives | Regular water has no additives | Carbonated water has added minerals or flavors. |
| Taste | Regular water has neutral in taste | Carbonated water has slightly tangy or sharp in taste |
| Effect on Digestion | Regular water is easy on the stomach and can aid in digestion, especially when consumed before or after meals. | The carbon dioxide in fizzy water can lead to a feeling of fullness, burping, or bloating, particularly in people with sensitive digestive systems. |
| Hydration | Regular water is good for hydration and is quickly absorbed by the body | Despite the bubbles, carbonated water provides the same level of hydration as still water. It’s a good alternative for those who find plain water boring. |
| Impact on Teeth | Regular water has a neutral pH and does not contribute to tooth enamel erosion | The carbonation process makes the water mildly acidic, which may weaken tooth enamel over time with excessive consumption. It’s best to drink it in moderation and avoid brushing immediately after. |
Is carbonated water better than regular water?
Apart from the fizz, carbonated water doesn’t offer anything more than regular water, as far as hydration is concerned. Moreover, it is a matter of taste, and you should choose the one that you can drink more of in a day. Besides, carbonated water has the fizz; there are some people who prefer to drink it since it can curb the sense of thirst, and you could end up drinking less of it compared to regular water. Also, it depends on the geographical location, and the climatic conditions can affect the water intake. If you have chronic gas problems or bloating, it is better to avoid drinking carbonated water, as it can only aggravate the condition.
In short, both carbonated water and regular water hydrate equally. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends sparkling water to people who find it more appealing when compared to regular water, probably to ensure everyone remains hydrated and healthy. Carbonated waters may have sugar added for sweetening purposes. It makes sense to read the nutrition label to check the sugar content, especially for diabetics and people battling obesity. It is best to settle for the type of water that lets you increase your daily intake. If you find carbonated water more appealing, go ahead and drink it to stay hydrated.
Which One Should You Choose?
When it comes to hydration, there is no clear winner. Both carbonated and regular water hydrate your body well. But the real decision comes down to your personal preference; if you like fizz, then go for carbonated water. But if you are prone to bloating or acid reflux, then stick to regular water. Besides, some sparkling waters come with added sugar or artificial sweeteners. Always check the label content, especially if you are diabetic or watching your weight.
Also, choose the option that helps you drink more water consistently. Furthermore, for those who find plain water boring, carbonated water can be a helpful alternative to encourage proper hydration as long as it’s unsweetened and consumed in moderation.
Summary
In conclusion, carbonated water and regular water hydrate the body equally well. Also, the key difference lies in taste, added minerals or sugar digestion impact, and dental health. Moreover, if the fizz motivates you to drink more water, carbonated water is a good choice, and regular water is still the most straightforward, cost-effective, and friendly option. If you’re looking for a safe, clean, and healthy way to meet your daily hydration goals, DrinkPrime provides a reliable water purifier solution right at home. It ensures you always have access to pure, great-tasting water—no matter your preference.
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