Can I count LaCroix as water intake?

October 13, 2025 •

4 min read

According to a 2016 study, sparkling water is just as hydrating as regular still water, which means the bubbles in your LaCroix won't negate its benefits. For those who find the fizz appealing, you can absolutely count LaCroix as water intake, helping you meet your daily hydration needs while enjoying a burst of flavor.

Quick Summary

Unsweetened sparkling water like LaCroix counts toward your daily fluid intake, providing the same hydration as regular water. The effervescence can encourage some to drink more, but check labels for added sugars and be mindful of potential bloating.

Key Points

Equally Hydrating: Unsweetened sparkling water like LaCroix is just as hydrating as regular still water because its base is H2O.
Check for Sweeteners: It is crucial to choose sparkling water, including LaCroix, without added sugars or artificial sweeteners to ensure it contributes positively to hydration.
Bloating Potential: Some people may experience bloating or gas due to the carbonation, especially during exercise or if they have a sensitive stomach.
Healthy Alternative: LaCroix offers a zero-calorie, zero-sugar alternative that can help transition away from high-calorie, sugary sodas.
Boosts Water Intake: For those who find plain water boring, the fizz and natural flavor essences can encourage them to drink more and meet their hydration goals.
Minimal Dental Risk: Plain sparkling water poses a minimal risk to dental enamel compared to sugary drinks, though plain still water is the safest option.
Personal Preference Matters: The best choice is often the type of water you will drink the most of throughout the day, whether it's flat or bubbly.

The Science of Sparkling Hydration

At its core, sparkling water is simply water that has been infused with carbon dioxide (CO2) to create a bubbly texture. This process does not alter the fundamental hydrating properties of the water itself. The effervescence, while a textural difference, does not interfere with your body's ability to absorb the liquid effectively. In fact, multiple studies have evaluated the hydrating effects of various beverages using an index that compares them to still water, and sparkling water consistently performs just as well. This means that from a purely physiological standpoint, your body recognizes and utilizes the H2O from sparkling water in the same way it does from a flat glass of tap water.

What's in a Can of LaCroix?

LaCroix is a prominent example of a pure, unsweetened sparkling water. A quick glance at the ingredients list reveals only carbonated water and "natural flavor essence". This is a crucial distinction. Unlike many other flavored beverages, LaCroix contains no calories, no added sugars, no artificial sweeteners, and no sodium. It provides the satisfying fizz and a hint of fruity flavor without any of the extra ingredients that could counteract its hydrating benefits. This composition makes it an excellent swap for sugary sodas or juices that can contribute to weight gain and blood sugar spikes. However, this purity is not guaranteed across all brands. Some sparkling waters, such as tonic water or certain brands of flavored seltzer, may contain added sugars or sodium, so it's essential to read the nutrition label carefully.

Benefits of Choosing LaCroix for Hydration

Encourages Higher Intake: For people who find plain water unappealing, the effervescence and flavor of LaCroix can make hydration more enjoyable. This can lead to drinking more fluids overall, which is a major win for daily water intake goals.
Healthy Alternative to Sugary Drinks: Substituting high-calorie, sugary sodas with a zero-calorie, zero-sweetener beverage like LaCroix is an easy and effective way to reduce sugar consumption and support weight management.
Minimal Ingredients: With only two ingredients—carbonated water and natural essence—LaCroix is a simple and clean choice for hydration, free from unwanted additives.

Potential Downsides to Consider

While largely beneficial, some individuals may experience minor side effects from sparkling water. The most common is bloating or gas due to the carbonation, which can be uncomfortable for people with sensitive stomachs or conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Additionally, the bubbles can make some people feel full faster, which might inadvertently cause them to drink less overall. Though minimal, the slight acidity from carbonic acid in sparkling water can pose a small risk to tooth enamel over time, especially with frequent consumption. For those concerned, a still water rinse or using a straw can help mitigate any potential enamel erosion.

Still Water vs. Unsweetened Sparkling Water

To help you decide which is right for you, here is a comparison of still water and an unsweetened sparkling water like LaCroix:


Feature	Still Water	Unsweetened Sparkling Water (LaCroix)
Hydration Level	Excellent. Absorbed quickly.	Excellent. Hydrates equally effectively.
Taste & Texture	Neutral, smooth, and flat.	Bubbly, crisp, and slightly tangy (flavored varieties).
Effects on Digestion	Gentle on the stomach.	Can cause bloating or gas in some individuals.
Cost	Typically the most affordable option.	Generally more expensive than tap water.
Dental Health	Safest option for teeth.	Slightly more acidic; minimal erosion risk if no sugar added.

How to Maximize Your Hydration with Sparkling Water

Even with the green light from experts, a balanced approach is key. Here are some tips for incorporating sparkling water into your hydration routine effectively:

Mix It Up: Alternate between sparkling and still water throughout the day. This provides variety while ensuring you get the quickest fluid absorption from still water and minimize any potential GI discomfort from the bubbles.
Check the Label: Always scrutinize the nutrition label to ensure you're choosing a brand free of added sugars, artificial sweeteners, or excess sodium. This is the single most important step to ensure your sparkling water is truly a hydrating choice.
Enhance Naturally: For those who crave more flavor, try adding natural elements like a slice of lemon, lime, or cucumber, or a few fresh mint leaves. This adds interest without introducing sugar.
Use a Straw: If you're concerned about dental health, drinking sparkling water through a straw can help minimize contact with your tooth enamel.
Listen to Your Body: If you notice increased bloating or discomfort, it might be a signal that your body prefers still water, especially during or after exercise.

Conclusion: Fizz or Flat? The Final Verdict

The science is clear: you can count LaCroix as a valid and effective source of hydration. The presence of carbonation does not detract from its ability to replenish your body’s fluids, making it a fantastic alternative to sugary sodas. For individuals who struggle to drink enough plain water, the flavor and fizz can be a significant motivator to stay properly hydrated. The most important consideration is to choose unsweetened options like LaCroix and to be mindful of your body’s individual response to the carbonation. Ultimately, the best water for you is the one you will drink consistently. Whether you prefer it sparkling or still, prioritizing your daily fluid intake is one of the most important things you can do for your overall health.

For more information on the importance of daily fluid intake, you can consult resources like the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, the carbonation in LaCroix does not make it less hydrating. The bubbles are just dissolved carbon dioxide and do not interfere with your body's ability to absorb the water, which is the primary hydrating component.

Yes, LaCroix is a much healthier choice than sugary sodas for hydration. Unlike soda, it contains no calories, sugar, or artificial sweeteners that can cause negative health effects and counteract hydration.

You can drink LaCroix during a mild workout, but for vigorous exercise, plain still water is often recommended. The carbonation can cause bloating, which might be uncomfortable during intense physical activity.

The American Dental Association considers plain sparkling water generally fine for teeth. While its slight acidity is less than sugary sodas, it is not as neutral as still water. LaCroix, with no added sugar, is a low-risk option.

No, sparkling water like LaCroix has not been shown to negatively affect bone density. The misconception often stems from cola drinks, which contain phosphoric acid and are linked to lower bone mineral density.

The 'natural essence' in LaCroix is derived from the natural oils of the fruit listed on the can. It provides a hint of flavor without adding any calories or sugars.

While sparkling water hydrates effectively, it's a good practice to mix still and sparkling water throughout the day. Plain still water is absorbed more quickly and helps you avoid any potential bloating from the carbonation.

According to the nutritional information, LaCroix contains 0g of sodium per can. This is a key difference from other carbonated beverages like club soda, which often have added minerals including sodium.