Still vs Sparkling Water: Which is Healthier?
Water is critical for our overall physical and mental health. It keeps our organs functioning properly, reducing the risk of illness, and flushes toxins out of the body.
But do still and sparkling water have the same effect, or is one a healthier option than the other?
To put it simply, still water is better for dental health and is more accessible for everyday consumption. However, both types of water are beneficial for daily hydration.
Today, we will dive into the definition of each, their benefits and their impact on our health. For high-quality water coolers and dispensers, browse our products and services today.
What is Still Water?
Still water refers to water that hasn’t been modified with carbonation. This has a flat profile and is the most basic form of water.
It’s also the most popular and accessible type of water and is essential for drinking, cooking, and other daily activities.
Types of Still Water
- Tap water: Tap water is treated and disinfected to remove contaminants and pathogens and then rigorously tested to ensure it’s safe for consumption. Its quality and taste can vary based on location and treatment.
- Bottled water: This can originate from springs, artesian wells, or municipal supplies. Bottled water is treated and purified to meet regulatory standards.
- Spring and artesian wells: This is valued for its mineral content and purity, as it is filtered through underground aquifers.
- Filtered water: Filtered tap water removes toxins, chlorine, and contaminants as a healthier and tastier solution.
What is Sparkling Water?
Sparkling water consists of water that has been infused with carbon dioxide gas under pressure.
When the pressure is released, this creates a fizzy, effervescent effect for a tastier sensory experience. This is made using carbonation machines or carbonators.
Types of Sparkling Water
- Natural sparkling mineral water: This comes from a natural spring or well that contains minerals.
- Soda water or club soda: Soda water is artificially carbonated and often contains minerals like sodium bicarbonate, sodium citrate, or potassium sulfate to mimic the taste of natural mineral water.
- Tonic water: Tonic water is a bit different due to the addition of quinine. This is commonly used for cocktails due to its bitter taste.
- Flavoured sparkling water: This is created by adding natural or artificial flavours and sweeteners to enhance its taste.
Which is Healthier?: A Comparative Analysis
So, is still water healthier than sparkling water? We have compared both types to help you make a decision:
Nutritional Content
Still water and sparkling water are both excellent choices for hydration. They are calorie and sugar-free, making them beneficial for our health.
Some sparkling waters include added minerals like calcium, magnesium, and bicarbonate for additional health benefits. However, this only includes small amounts and should not act as your primary mineral source.
Still water also contains minerals such as calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, bicarbonate, sulfate, and fluoride. These are commonly added to tap water.
Hydration Efficacy
Sparkling and still water are both great choices for hydration.
Both have a large impact on the body, improving bodily function and increasing energy levels. Preferences between them come down to preferred taste rather than hydration levels.
Digestive Health
Sparkling water can increase feelings of fullness, improve swallowing, and even aid in constipation relief. However, for those with Irritable Bowl Syndrome (IBS), this can lead to gas and bloating.
Still water helps dissolve fats and soluble fibres in the body, helping with bowel regulation. This is beneficial for those with a diet high in fibre. It also helps the liver and kidneys detoxify, preventing build-up of harmful substances.
Dental Health
Still water has a neutral pH and does not pose any risk to dental enamel.
However, due to its carbonation, Sparkling water has a slightly more acidic pH, which can contribute to enamel erosion. However, this has a significantly lower impact than fizzy drinks or fruit juice.
Flavoured sparkling waters, such as citrus, may pose a higher risk to dental health due to added acids.
Bone Health
Early research suggested that sparkling water could negatively affect bone health due to its carbonation. However, these concerns primarily relate to cola beverages, which contain phosphoric acid, meaning sparkling water is safe to consume.
Still water contains calcium and magnesium, which is essential for bone density and strength. Sparkling water, which contains these nutrients, has the same effect.
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