Sparkling water has become a daily ritual for many and a growing segment of the beverage industry, with annual sales reaching $4 billion in the United States.
Mineral or tap water is great for hydration, everyone knows that. But it’s surprising how many people don’t like water and don’t want to drink it. Adding carbonation can make it more palatable.
But equally healthy?
Nutritionists agree that sparkling water is as hydrating as regular water, but tap water has the added benefit of fluoride, which helps prevent tooth decay.
Additionally, sparkling water contains carbon dioxide, which is converted into carbonic acid when mixed with saliva, lowering the pH level in the mouth. The pH scale indicates whether a solution is more acidic (lower pH) or alkaline (higher pH). Drinks with lower pH can be corrosive to teeth, making them more susceptible to cavities; however, unsweetened sparkling water is not as erosive as sodas or fruit juice, according to a 2016 study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association.
In summary: since sparkling water has the potential to be erosive, don’t think of it as your main source of water. Nutritionists recommend two or three sparkling waters per day, preferably combining them with meals, as when we eat, the mouth produces additional saliva, which can help neutralize acids on the surface of the teeth.
Drink water
Regardless of the type of water preferred, it is recommended to drink about half your body weight in ounces, assuming a normal body mass index. These fluids can also include coffee, tea, and water contained in fruits and vegetables. But experts say there is no hard and fast rule about how much water to drink per day because it depends on many factors, including body size, activity level, environment, medical conditions, and so on.
Source: The New York Times