What exactly is bubly sparkling water?
At its core, bubly is a brand of sparkling water, which is simply water infused with carbon dioxide gas. Unlike many sodas or other carbonated beverages, the original line of bubly sparkling water contains no added sugar, no artificial sweeteners, and no calories. Instead, it uses 'natural flavor' derived from fruit essences to provide a hint of taste. This minimal ingredient list makes it a vastly different and healthier option than diet sodas, which often contain artificial sweeteners, or juices, which can be loaded with sugar and calories.
It's important to distinguish the standard bubly sparkling water from newer product lines, such as bubly Burst. Products like bubly Burst are sweetened sparkling waters that do contain added ingredients like citric acid, sucralose, and acesulfame potassium, in addition to juice concentrates. These products should be treated differently from a nutritional standpoint than the classic, unsweetened cans. When discussing whether bubly counts as water, we are primarily referring to the standard, unsweetened variety.
The science of hydration: bubly vs. plain water
For hydration purposes, the human body primarily needs H2O. When water is carbonated, its fundamental hydrating properties remain unchanged. A study that measured the Beverage Hydration Index (BHI), which assesses how well a drink hydrates the body compared to still water, found that sparkling water performed equally well. While the absorption rate might be slightly slower for sparkling water due to the bubbles, the overall hydrating effect is identical.
For many, the fizzy texture and subtle flavor of bubly are a major advantage. People who find plain water boring or struggle to meet their daily fluid intake often find flavored sparkling water more appealing, which can lead to increased overall hydration. This is a significant benefit, especially for those trying to kick a soda habit or simply improve their fluid consumption.
Potential drawbacks and considerations
Despite its hydrating qualities, bubly does have some factors to consider:
- Bloating and Gas: The carbon dioxide bubbles can cause gas to build up in the stomach, leading to temporary bloating or a feeling of fullness. This may cause some individuals to drink less than they would of still water, indirectly reducing their total fluid intake. If you experience discomfort, it's best to alternate between still and sparkling water.
- Dental Health: The process of carbonation creates carbonic acid, making sparkling water slightly more acidic than regular water. While plain sparkling water is far less harmful to teeth than sugary sodas, long-term excessive consumption could theoretically impact tooth enamel. Flavored sparkling waters, particularly those containing added citric acid, pose a slightly higher risk. To mitigate this, dentists suggest drinking sparkling water with a meal or rinsing your mouth with plain water afterwards.
Who benefits from drinking bubly?
Bubly can be a game-changer for several types of people looking to improve their diet:
- Those transitioning from sugary drinks: The fizzy texture provides a similar mouthfeel to soda, making it an excellent bridge beverage to reduce or eliminate high-calorie, sugary drink consumption.
- Individuals with 'water fatigue': For those who are simply bored with the taste of plain water, bubly's natural fruit flavors can make hydration more enjoyable and sustainable.
- Health-conscious consumers: It's a great option for anyone wanting to stay hydrated without the added sugar, calories, or artificial sweeteners found in many other flavored beverages.
How to incorporate bubly into your diet
Integrating sparkling water into your diet for optimal hydration involves a balanced approach. It's best to view bubly as a complement to, not a complete replacement for, plain water. Here are some tips:
- Start with still: Drink a glass of plain water in the morning to kickstart hydration.
- Alternate intake: Mix up your fluid sources throughout the day. Have a bubly in the afternoon, but reach for plain water during or after a workout.
- DIY infusions: If you want more flavor without additives, try adding slices of real fruit like lemon, lime, or cucumber to your still or sparkling water.
Comparison Table: Bubly vs. Plain Water
| Feature | Bubly Sparkling Water (Unsweetened) | Plain Water | Best For... |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hydration | Yes, just as hydrating as plain water. | Yes, the gold standard for hydration. | Equally Effective |
| Calories | 0 | 0 | Equally Effective |
| Sugar | 0 grams | 0 grams | Equally Effective |
| Ingredients | Carbonated Water, Natural Flavor | H2O (Pure Water) | Plain Water (fewer ingredients) |
| Acidity | Slightly acidic (carbonic acid) | Neutral | Plain Water (better for long-term dental health) |
| Feeling of Fullness | Bubbles may cause bloating or fullness. | Does not cause bloating due to carbonation. | Plain Water (for those sensitive to gas) |
| Flavor/Taste | Variety of natural fruit essences. | Neutral, tasteless. | Bubly (for those who prefer flavor) |
The bottom line: Choosing your hydration
Ultimately, the question of "Does bubly sparkling water count as water?" is answered with a firm 'yes,' as long as you're choosing the unsweetened variety. Standard bubly provides hydration equivalent to plain water, with the added benefit of flavor and fizz that can motivate people to drink more fluids. It is a far healthier alternative to sugary soft drinks and a welcome addition to a balanced nutritional plan.
However, plain water remains the simplest, most fundamental source of hydration, with no potential for bloating or dental enamel concerns over time. The best approach is to listen to your body and find the right balance of both still and sparkling water to meet your daily fluid intake goals. By understanding the simple science and nutritional facts, you can confidently integrate bubly into a healthy, hydrating lifestyle. For more information on the hydration index of beverages, see this research from the National Institutes of Health.
