Researchers developed a beverage hydration index based on the results of a randomized trial that tested the effects of 13 commonly consumed drinks on the hydration levels of 72 men, all of whom started the experiment in an adequately hydrated state. The results found water and seltzer to be equally hydrating.
Those results aren’t too surprising, given that sparkling water is just still water infused with carbon dioxide to make it bubbly, sometimes with added flavor.
“Sparkling water is typically well-tolerated by most people,” says Hill. “One common downside for some is bloating or gas due to the carbon dioxide. This is usually harmless but may be uncomfortable.”
So, while sparkling water is good for you, it’s still possible to overdo it.
Nutrition Facts for Water
While often touted as one of the best beverages for your health, water doesn’t have much nutritional information in terms of calories or macronutrients. According to the University of Rochester Medical Center, a cup of municipal water may contain tiny amounts of minerals like calcium and magnesium.
Nutrition Facts for Sparkling Water
Again, because sparkling water is water plus carbonation (gas), it is pretty much identical nutritionally to still water. Apart from a very small amount of certain nutrients and sodium, which some brands add for flavor, it has almost zero nutritional value.
Just keep an eye on the ingredients list, because some brands add fruit juice or puree, while others add sugar or artificial sweeteners. Calories will likely still be low in all these beverages, but you’ll want to make sure you know exactly what you’re getting in your glass.
“Like plain water, there don’t tend to be micronutrients, antioxidants, or other health-promoting compounds in sparkling water,” says Destini Moody, RD, a nutritionist at Live It Up Nutrition in Los Angeles. “However, it can help improve hydration status, which is conducive to maintaining health, energy levels, and athletic performance.”
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