Carbonated Water vs. Regular Water: the Science Behind the Bubbles
Water is essential for life, but today, we have more options than ever. Regular water is the classic choice, but carbonated water has surged in popularity in recent years, becoming a favorite alternative. The fizz adds an exciting twist to hydration, but how do carbonated and regular water differ, and what are the pros and cons of each? Let's explore the science behind the bubbles, the health implications, and the fascinating history of carbonated water.
Whether you're grabbing a bottle of sparkling water for a refreshing drink or sticking to traditional still water, it's important to understand how each option affects your body and overall health. From the potential for bloating to the myth around bone health and the role of acid in dental care, these choices go beyond just taste. Additionally, the fascinating process of carbonation has a rich history that dates back to the 18th century, when carbonated water was first developed by chemists experimenting with the infusion of CO₂ into water. Understanding these differences can help you make more informed choices about your hydration.
What Is Carbonated Water?
Carbonated water, also known as sparkling water or soda water, is water infused with carbon dioxide (CO₂) gas under pressure. This process forms tiny bubbles, giving the water its characteristic fizz and a slightly tangy taste due to the formation of carbonic acid. The process can occur naturally in spring water sources (naturally carbonated) or be artificially produced.
Naturally Occurring Carbonation: How and Why?
Natural carbonation happens when underground water comes into contact with volcanic gases or limestone, which naturally contain carbon dioxide. As rainwater seeps into the Earth, it passes through layers of mineral-rich rock and can absorb CO₂. Over time, the CO₂ dissolves into the water, creating carbonic acid, and infusing the water with bubbles, similar to the way artificial carbonation is achieved under pressure.
This typically occurs in regions with volcanic activity, where carbon dioxide is released from the Earth’s crust. The natural pressure from the Earth's geothermal activity forces CO₂ into underground water reservoirs, creating naturally sparkling mineral water. Famous examples of this are found in places like Italy’s San Pellegrino Springs or the French Perrier Springs, both renowned for their naturally carbonated mineral waters.
In these environments, the combination of mineral-rich water and CO₂ gives the water not only its effervescence but also a unique mineral taste, which is why naturally carbonated waters are often prized for both their flavor and potential health benefits. The CO₂ remains dissolved in the water until it reaches the surface, where the pressure is released and the water becomes fizzy.
The Origins of Carbonated Water
Carbonated water dates back to the 18th century when Joseph Priestley, an English chemist, accidentally discovered how to infuse water with CO₂ by suspending a bowl of water over a beer vat at a brewery. The gas from the fermentation process mixed with the water, creating the first artificially carbonated drink. Priestley called it “fixed air” and later published his findings in 1772.
Following Priestley’s discovery, Johan Jacob Schweppe, a Swiss watchmaker, perfected a process to carbonate water on a larger scale, leading to the formation of the Schweppes company in 1783. Schweppe's method involved adding CO₂ to water under pressure, and this technique remains largely the same in modern carbonated beverage production.
The Process of Making Carbonated Water
The carbonation process involves dissolving CO₂ in water under high pressure. Here's a step-by-step breakdown:
Pressurization: CO₂ is pumped into regular water using high pressure.
Formation of Carbonic Acid: When CO₂ dissolves in water, it forms carbonic acid (H₂CO₃), which gives the water its slight acidity and tangy flavor.
Release of Bubbles: Upon opening a bottle or can of carbonated water, the pressure is released, and the CO₂ forms bubbles that rise to the surface, creating the fizz.
Natural carbonation occurs when volcanic or limestone springs infuse water with CO₂ underground, but most commercial sparkling waters are artificially carbonated.
Comparing Carbonated Water and Regular Water
1. Hydration
Regular Water: Water is crucial for maintaining hydration, regulating body temperature, and supporting a wide array of bodily functions like digestion, nutrient absorption, and circulation. Plain water is universally recognized as the best way to stay hydrated, as it contains no additives and is easily absorbed by the body.
Carbonated Water: Research suggests that carbonated water hydrates the body just as effectively as regular water. The primary reason for this is that the body's cells absorb water in the same way, whether it contains dissolved carbon dioxide or not. The CO₂ in carbonated water doesn’t interfere with the body's ability to absorb fluids, nor does it reduce hydration efficiency.
One study conducted by the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition tested the hydration levels of individuals after drinking still water, carbonated water, and other beverages. The study concluded that carbonated water hydrated participants just as well as still water. The CO₂ may add bubbles and a tangy taste, but it doesn’t change how water interacts with the body on a cellular level.
An example of this is athletes who drink sparkling water to stay hydrated during or after training sessions, particularly when they prefer the taste or texture. For them, the hydration benefits remain the same, and choosing carbonated water is simply a matter of preference without affecting their hydration status.
When carbonated water is flavored, it may still hydrate effectively, but there are additional factors to consider. Many flavored sparkling waters contain additives like citric acid, natural flavors, or even sugars and artificial sweeteners, which can impact the health benefits.
Hydration: Flavored carbonated water without added sugars or artificial sweeteners hydrates similarly to plain carbonated water. However, if the drink includes high levels of sodium or sugars, its hydration effectiveness may be slightly reduced because the body may need to process those additives. Some sweeteners can also lead to gastrointestinal discomfort.
Dental Health: Flavored sparkling waters, especially those containing citric acid for flavoring, have been shown to increase the risk of dental erosion. Citric acid can make the water slightly more acidic, which may weaken tooth enamel over time. However, this effect is generally less severe compared to sugary sodas or fruit juices(Right as Rain by UW Medicine)(UT Austin Blogs).
Gastrointestinal Effects: Some people may find flavored sparkling water causes bloating or gas, especially if they consume it in large quantities. The flavoring agents could potentially irritate those with sensitive digestive systems, like individuals with IBS(Right as Rain by UW Medicine).
In summary, flavored carbonated water can hydrate effectively, but it’s important to check for added sugars, acids, or artificial sweeteners, as these could diminish its health benefits.
2. Digestion and Bloating
Regular Water: It doesn’t affect digestion negatively, and in fact, drinking water during meals can aid digestion by helping break down food.
Carbonated Water: The carbonation can cause bloating or gas in some individuals due to the release of CO₂. However, carbonated water may also stimulate digestion and can help relieve symptoms of indigestion or constipation for some people.
3. Acid Reflux
Regular Water: Neutral in pH and generally soothing for people with acid reflux.
Carbonated Water: The formation of carbonic acid slightly increases the acidity of carbonated water. For some people, particularly those prone to acid reflux or heartburn, carbonated water may exacerbate symptoms.
4. Dental Health
Regular Water: Water has no negative effect on dental health and is actually beneficial in cleaning food particles and sugars from the mouth.
Carbonated Water: Due to its slightly acidic nature, carbonated water is more erosive to tooth enamel than regular water. However, it’s much less harmful than sugary sodas. Plain carbonated water is considered safe for your teeth in moderation, but adding flavors or sweeteners can increase acidity and potential for enamel erosion.
5. Bone Health
Regular Water: No impact on bone density or health.
Carbonated Water: Contrary to myths, plain carbonated water does not negatively affect bone health. Research shows that it's the high phosphorus content in sugary sodas, not the carbonation, that might contribute to bone density loss over time. Therefore, carbonated water alone is safe for bones.
6. Taste and Preference
Regular Water: Tasteless and neutral, regular water is the gold standard for hydration, but some find it boring.
Carbonated Water: Many people find the bubbles refreshing and the slightly tangy taste more appealing. This can encourage individuals who don’t enjoy drinking plain water to stay hydrated.
Pros and Cons of Carbonated Water
Pros:
Increases Hydration: For those who dislike the blandness of regular water, the effervescence of sparkling water can encourage better hydration habits.
Potential Digestive Benefits: Carbonated water may help relieve constipation or indigestion for some individuals.
Calorie-Free Alternative: It's a great alternative to sugary sodas, offering the fizz without the calories or sugar.
Cons:
Potential for Bloating: The CO₂ can cause bloating or discomfort, especially in those with sensitive stomachs.
Slightly Acidic: While not harmful in moderate amounts, carbonated water is slightly more acidic than regular water and could contribute to enamel erosion if consumed in excess.
Not Ideal for Acid Reflux: For individuals prone to acid reflux, the carbonation can aggravate symptoms.
Which Should You Choose?
Both carbonated and regular water have their benefits, and the choice largely depends on personal preference and how your body responds to carbonation. If you enjoy the fizz and don't experience digestive discomfort, carbonated water is a perfectly healthy option for staying hydrated. However, if bloating or acid reflux is an issue, sticking to regular water might be the better choice.
Ultimately, whether you opt for regular or carbonated water, the most important thing is to stay hydrated throughout the day, as both provide the same key benefit: keeping you refreshed and maintaining your body’s essential functions.
Would you like a little fizz with your hydration, or are you a purist who prefers it plain? Either way, staying hydrated is key!
Stay Hydrated out there ;)
Robyn