Optimal Health Daily - Fitness and Nutrition

3116: Are Carbonated Beverages Bad For You? What Health Benefits and Negatives to Sparkling Water with Natural Flavors

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Sep 12, 2025
Explore the truth about sparkling water and its health effects. The discussion dives into how carbonation impacts acidity, hydration, and dental health. Learn practical tips to enjoy fizzy drinks without damaging your teeth. Discover the importance of not relying solely on carbonated beverages for hydration, with the emphasis on plain water as the best option. Think about how to balance enjoyment with health benefits!
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ANECDOTE

Personal Example Of Heavy Sparkling Water Use

  • Dr. Neal Malik describes friends who regularly drank multiple cans of sparkling water during a hangout.
  • He uses this to introduce concerns about frequent consumption and whether they should ask about health effects.
INSIGHT

Why Carbonation Lowers pH

  • Carbonation makes water acidic because dissolved CO2 lowers pH and creates carbonic acid.
  • Plain water is pH 7 while many sparkling waters fall between pH 3 and 4 without added minerals.
INSIGHT

Minerals Reduce Sparkling Water Acidity

  • Adding minerals to sparkling water raises its pH closer to neutral and reduces acidity.
  • Brands like San Pellegrino or Perrier with minerals have pH nearer to 5 rather than 3–4.
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