What’s the Fuss About Sparkling Water?

The fizzy charm of sparkling water has been captivating people for centuries, but recently, it’s become a true star of the beverage world. This bubbly drink, once a rare luxury, is now a common sight in grocery stores, restaurants, and homes across the globe.

Sparkling water’s story begins in natural mineral springs, where water and carbon dioxide combine to create nature’s own fizzy drink. People have been enjoying these natural sparkling waters for thousands of years. The ancient Romans, for instance, prized the naturally carbonated waters from springs in what is now Germany.

In 1767, Joseph Priestley, an English scientist, found a way to make artificial sparkling water. He discovered how to infuse still water with carbon dioxide, creating the first man-made fizzy water. This breakthrough paved the way for the sparkling water industry we know today.

Fast forward to the present, and sparkling water is experiencing a remarkable surge in popularity. Sales have been climbing steadily over the past decade, with more people choosing it as a healthier alternative to sugary sodas. The market now offers a vast selection of options, from plain sparkling water to flavoured varieties with hints of fruit, herbs, and even vegetables.

This rise in popularity isn’t just about taste. Many people are turning to sparkling water as part of a broader trend towards healthier living. It offers the satisfying fizz of soda without the added sugar and calories, making it an attractive choice for those watching their waistlines or managing conditions like diabetes.

The sparkling water craze has also been fueled by clever marketing and sleek packaging. Brands have positioned sparkling water as a trendy, sophisticated drink, appealing to consumers who want to make healthier choices without sacrificing enjoyment.

As we dive deeper into the world of sparkling water, we’ll explore what makes this effervescent drink so special, examine its potential benefits and drawbacks, and help you navigate the ever-expanding options on store shelves.

What is Sparkling Water?

Sparkling water, at its core, is water that contains dissolved carbon dioxide gas, which creates bubbles and a fizzy sensation when you drink it. There are two main types of sparkling water:

1. Naturally carbonated: This type comes from springs where water absorbs carbon dioxide naturally, often picking up minerals as it bubbles up through rock.

2. Artificially carbonated: This is regular water that’s been infused with carbon dioxide under pressure. Many popular brands use this method.

The process of making artificially carbonated water involves chilling the water and then pressurising it with carbon dioxide. When you open a bottle of sparkling water, the pressure is released, allowing the carbon dioxide to form bubbles. Some sparkling waters also have added minerals or flavours, but the basic ingredient is always water with dissolved carbon dioxide.

Nutritional Profile

Sparkling water, in its purest form, is just as hydrating as still water and contains zero calories, sugar, or artificial additives. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content:

Calories: 0

Sugar: 0g

Sodium: 0mg (unless added)

Calcium: 0mg (unless naturally present or added)

Magnesium: 0mg (unless naturally present or added)

The mineral content can vary, especially in naturally carbonated waters. Some might contain small amounts of calcium, magnesium, or sodium, depending on their source.

It’s worth noting that the carbonation process doesn’t add any nutritional value to the water. The bubbles might make you feel full temporarily, but they don’t provide any nutrients.

When comparing sparkling water to still water, the main difference is the presence of carbonic acid, which gives sparkling water its fizz. This doesn’t significantly impact the water’s nutritional value for most people.

Potential Health Benefits

While sparkling water isn’t a miracle drink, it does offer some potential benefits:

Hydration: Despite myths to the contrary, sparkling water hydrates you just as effectively as still water. If you find sparkling water more enjoyable, you might drink more of it, potentially improving your overall hydration.
Improved Digestion: Some studies suggest that sparkling water might help with digestion. A study published in the European Journal of Gastroenterology & Hepatology found that drinking sparkling water improved symptoms in people with indigestion and constipation.
Feeling of Fullness: The carbonation in sparkling water can create a feeling of fullness. This might help some people eat less, potentially aiding in weight management. However, this effect is usually temporary.
Healthier Alternative to Sodas: For those trying to cut back on sugary drinks, sparkling water can be a satisfying substitute. It provides the fizzy sensation without the added sugars and calories found in sodas.
Mineral Intake: Some sparkling mineral waters can contribute small amounts of minerals to your diet. While the amounts are usually minimal, every little bit counts towards your overall nutrient intake.
Throat Soothing: Anecdotally, some people find that the bubbles in sparkling water can help soothe a sore throat or relieve the sensation of having something stuck in the throat.

It’s important to note that while these potential benefits exist, sparkling water isn’t inherently healthier than still water. The best choice is the one that helps you stay properly hydrated.

Concerns and Myths

Several concerns and myths surround sparkling water consumption:

Effect on Tooth Enamel: Sparkling water is slightly acidic due to the carbonic acid formed when CO2 dissolves in water. This has led to concerns about tooth enamel erosion. However, studies show that while sparkling water is more erosive than still water, it’s far less damaging than sugary or citrus drinks. Drinking it with meals or using a straw can further minimise any potential effects.
Impact on Bone Health: A myth persists that carbonated drinks, including sparkling water, leach calcium from bones. This isn’t supported by evidence. The confusion may stem from studies on cola drinks, where caffeine and phosphoric acid (not present in sparkling water) may affect calcium absorption.
Bloating and Gas: Some people experience bloating or increased gas when drinking sparkling water. This is simply due to swallowing air along with the water and usually subsides quickly. If it causes discomfort, switching to still water is an easy solution.

Sparkling Water vs. Soft Drinks

Comparing sparkling water to soft drinks reveals significant health implications:

Sugar Content: Plain sparkling water contains no sugar, while a typical 35 cl can of soda contains about 39 grams – nearly 10 teaspoons.
Calorie Count: Sparkling water is calorie-free, whereas the same amount of soda has around 150 calories.
Additives: Soft drinks often contain artificial colours, flavours, and preservatives. Plain sparkling water has none of these.
Health Impact: Regular soda consumption is linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and tooth decay. Sparkling water doesn’t carry these risks.

Switching from soda to sparkling water can significantly reduce sugar and calorie intake, potentially aiding weight management and improving overall health.

Flavoured Sparkling Waters

The market for flavoured sparkling waters has exploded in recent years:

Types of Flavourings:

Natural flavours: Derived from actual fruits, vegetables, or herbs.
Artificial flavours: Chemically created to mimic natural flavours.
Essence waters: Made by vaporising and then condensing fruit oils.

Many brands claim “all-natural” flavours, but it’s important to read labels carefully. The term “natural” isn’t strictly regulated and can be misleading.

Hidden Ingredients: While many flavoured sparkling waters are calorie and sugar-free, some may contain:

Citric acid: For tartness
Sodium: For flavour enhancement
Artificial sweeteners: In “diet” or “zero-calorie” varieties

Always check the ingredient list, especially if you’re watching your sodium intake or avoiding artificial additives.

How to Choose a Good Sparkling Water

Selecting a good sparkling water involves more than just grabbing the first fizzy bottle you see.

Here are 10 things to look for while choosing your sparkling water:

1. Source: Check where the water comes from. Natural spring waters often have a unique mineral profile that can enhance taste.

2. Carbonation level: Sparkling waters vary in their level of carbonation. Some are lightly effervescent, while others are intensely bubbly. This is often described as “low,” “medium,” or “high” carbonation on the label.

3. Mineral content: If you’re interested in the potential health benefits of minerals, look for brands that list their mineral content. Common minerals include calcium, magnesium, and sodium.

4. pH level: While not always listed, pH can affect taste and potentially tooth enamel. A higher pH (closer to 7) is less acidic.

5. Additives: Check the ingredient list carefully. If you’re looking for pure sparkling water, it should only contain water and carbon dioxide.

6. Flavours: If you’re choosing flavoured water, look for those with natural flavours rather than artificial ones. Be wary of terms like “essence,” which aren’t strictly regulated.

7. Packaging: Consider the environmental impact. Glass bottles are more easily recycled than plastic, but they’re heavier to transport.

8. Sodium content: If you’re watching your sodium intake, be aware that some sparkling waters, especially those with added flavours, might contain sodium.

9. Price: While not always an indicator of quality, extremely cheap sparkling waters might use lower-quality carbonation processes or water sources.

10. Brand reputation: Research the brand’s water treatment processes and quality control measures.

When reading labels, pay attention to serving sizes. Some bottles might look like a single serving but actually contain two or more.

Remember, the “best” sparkling water often comes down to personal preference. Don’t be afraid to try different brands and types to find what you enjoy most.

DIY Sparkling Water

Making your own sparkling water at home can be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option:

Home carbonation systems: Devices like SodaStream allow you to carbonate tap water. They’re easy to use and reduce plastic waste.
Adding flavours: You can create your own flavoured waters using fresh fruits, herbs, or natural extracts.
Carbonation level control: DIY methods allow you to adjust the level of carbonation to your liking.
Cost comparison: While there’s an initial investment, making sparkling water at home can be cheaper in the long run.

Sparkling Water in Mixology

Sparkling water has become a staple in modern mixology:

Cocktails: It’s used to add fizz to drinks like the Aperol Spritz or Gin Fizz.
Mocktails: Sparkling water is a key ingredient in creating non-alcoholic versions of popular cocktails.
Food pairing: The bubbles in sparkling water can cleanse the palate, making it a good companion for rich or spicy foods.

Conclusion

Sparkling water offers a refreshing, calorie-free alternative to still water and sugary drinks. While it’s not significantly different from regular water in terms of hydration or health benefits, its fizzy nature can make staying hydrated more enjoyable for many people.

As we’ve explored, the key is to choose wisely. Look for options with minimal additives, be aware of environmental impacts, and consider trying DIY methods if you’re a frequent consumer.

While we enjoy the luxury of debating the merits of different sparkling waters, it’s crucial to remember that many people around the world still lack access to clean, safe drinking water and that is why we at AquaMaya, have taken up the challenge of providing access to clean water in communities that are in dire need of it in West Africa.

As you reach for your next glass of sparkling water, consider how you might contribute to global water equity. Could you donate to or volunteer with organisations like AquaMaya? Or perhaps advocate for clean water access in your own community and beyond?

Remember, every sip of clean water is a privilege. Let’s work together to ensure it’s a right enjoyed by all. Your actions, however small, can help create ripples of change in the global water crisis.