The Tamesis
There are a lot of decisions to be made in a day, from the inevitable what to wear to what TV to watch after get off work (love story, Anyone? ). But when it comes to health, decision-making seems to become more nuanced. Which high-protein breakfast, magnesium supplement, or skin-care trend is the best and why? Even something as simple as a waiter offering tap, still, or sparkling water can create decision fatigue.
However, with a little extra knowledge, such decisions—including the “What water should I order?” dilemma—become much easier to make. So, let’s get to know our sparkling friend – soda.
What is sparkling water?
Sommelier (yes, that’s a thing!) Narrated by Anistacia Barber Fashion, “At its most basic level, soda water is water containing dissolved carbon dioxide gas.”
Kirsten Jackson, a UK-based registered dietitian who specializes in irritable bowel syndrome, adds that carbon dioxide (aka carbonation) can be “produced naturally in some underground mineral springs, or it can be added during the manufacturing process.”
How is it different from other varieties of water?
There are many types of water on the market, so let’s take a look at a few of them and how they compare to sparkling water.
- Seltzer: Manually carbonated, filtered tap water with no additional minerals
- Sparkling water: Similar to seltzer, but with added minerals like sodium bicarbonate or potassium sulfate to help give it a “salty, richer finish,” which Barber says pairs well with the cocktail’s spirits.
- Tonic water: Highly carbonated water containing sweeteners and quinine
- Sparkling mineral water: “comes from mineral springs and contains naturally occurring minerals such as calcium, magnesium or sodium,” noted Jackson, with Barber adding that the carbonation can be natural or added
- Flavored sodas: Think La Croix or Spindrift. Barber said most use “natural flavors” or fruit essences to enhance flavor
“From a nutritional perspective, these beverages are generally very similar, unless there is added sugar, flavoring or sweetener,” Jackson said.
What effects does drinking soda have on the body?
There are some common misconceptions about soda—Barber says she often has to “clear the air” on the topic—including how it affects your teeth, digestion, and even bone health.
teeth
Contrary to popular belief, Barber assures us, regular soda is “only slightly acidic.” So as long as you don’t choose drinks with added sugar or citric acid, “your smile is generally safe,” she says. Michael Apa, DDS, PhD, founder of Apa Aesthetics, agrees: Regular soda won’t harm your teeth.
Digestion
Carbonation can affect digestion in a number of ways. For some people, the release of gas in the stomach after eating can be uncomfortable. “For others, especially those with irritable bowel syndrome or sensitive digestion, it may increase bloating or abdominal discomfort,” says Jackson. Still, she added, reactions are very individual, noting that some of her IBS patients do like soda because it helps them feel satisfied after a meal. Research also shows that soda can help relieve indigestion symptoms.
