Are You Worried about Carbonation Affecting Bone Health? | Seltzer Water is safe! carbonated drinks such as Club Soda, Ginger Ale and Lemon Lim Soda could offer unexpected health benefits – some even claim seltzer water has health advantages!
Studies of carbonated soft drinks do not demonstrate any harmful effects on bone health when choosing clear, sugar-free varieties without added phosphoric acid or caffeine. Indeed, sparkling mineral water may even contain beneficial nutrients like calcium and magnesium that can enhance bone health while increasing energy levels.
Dark colas seem to have the only detrimental impact on bone density. Their high levels of phosphoric acid can lead to calcium being excreted through urine, potentially leading to loss through urine loss. This may be because dark colas often take the place of healthier, calcium-rich beverages like milk.
Studies have also demonstrated that those who consume large quantities of carbonated soft drinks such as soda tend to lose more bone density than those who drink less soda; it remains unclear whether this effect is caused by the high levels of phosphate and caffeine present in cola drinks or by drinking these beverages more than other, healthier options that support bone health.
Some flavored carbonated water and seltzer waters contain more calcium than regular or diet soda, due to manufacturers adding additional calcium than naturally found in sparkling or still water. If choosing one with added calcium, take care as too much can interfere with absorption of other vitamins and minerals such as magnesium and potassium.
Although drinking sparkling or flavored water throughout the day may have some mildly adverse effects on your tooth enamel, they’re far less detrimental than sugary sodas. When drinking carbonated beverages it is wise to limit yourself to one per meal and brush your teeth afterward in order to minimise acid exposure.
Sparkling water may also be better for your digestive system. A 2002 study published in the European Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology discovered that people who consumed carbonated water experienced less problems with indigestion, constipation, and swallowing difficulty than those consuming non-carbonated beverages. If dysphagia (swallowing difficulty) is an issue for you, another small study published in February 2014 in Clinical Cases in Mineral and Bone Metabolism found carbonated water may help alleviate it – perhaps by clearing throat clearance or making swallowing simpler!