Does Drinking Flavored Water Count as Drinking Water?

October 9, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, plain water is the gold standard for hydration, but many people find it bland. This has led to a surge in the popularity of flavored waters, sparking the common question: Does drinking flavored water count as drinking water? The simple answer is yes, flavored water does contribute to your fluid intake, but its health implications vary widely depending on the ingredients.

Quick Summary

This article explores the nutritional differences between plain and flavored water, examining how additives like sugar, artificial sweeteners, and acids affect hydration, calorie count, and dental health. It provides insights into reading nutrition labels, choosing healthier flavored water options, and understanding the pros and cons of making it part of your hydration routine.

Key Points

Flavored water hydrates effectively: Most flavored waters consist of over 99% water and count toward your daily fluid intake, just like plain water.
Beware of hidden sugars and artificial additives: Many commercial flavored waters contain added sugars, high-fructose corn syrup, or artificial sweeteners, which can impact your calorie intake and overall health.
Acidity can harm dental health: The citric and other acids used in many flavored waters can erode tooth enamel over time, even in sugar-free versions, increasing the risk of dental decay.
DIY infusions are the healthiest option: Creating your own flavored water with fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs is the best way to enjoy flavor without added sugars, artificial ingredients, or unnecessary calories.
Moderate consumption is key: To minimize dental risks, consume acidic flavored water during mealtimes rather than sipping throughout the day, which prolongs acid exposure to teeth.
Sparkling vs. Still water hydration is comparable: Research indicates that sparkling water is just as hydrating as still water, so the choice between bubbly and flat comes down to personal preference.

Plain vs. Flavored Water: The Core Differences

While flavored water is primarily water, the additional ingredients can have significant nutritional and health impacts. Plain, unadulterated water remains the benchmark for optimal hydration, free from any additives. This section delves into the key contrasts between the two.

Plain water's benefits are straightforward: zero calories, zero sugar, and a neutral pH that is gentle on tooth enamel. It is the most effective way to rehydrate without adding any unnecessary substances to your body. Its lack of flavor can be a drawback for some, but its purity is its greatest asset.

Flavored water, on the other hand, comes in several forms, each with its own set of characteristics:

Naturally Infused Water: Created by adding fresh fruits (like lemon or berries) and herbs (like mint or basil) to plain water. This is the healthiest option, adding flavor and some vitamins with minimal impact on calories or sugar.
Naturally Flavored Water: Bottled products that use natural essences for flavor, typically with no added sugar or artificial sweeteners. Brands often marketed as calorie-free fall into this category, but it's essential to check the ingredients list for added acids or sweeteners.
Artificially Flavored Water: Often uses synthetic flavorings, artificial sweeteners (like sucralose), and sometimes food dyes. While these typically contain zero or very few calories, the long-term health effects of artificial ingredients are still under study.
Sugar-Sweetened Flavored Water: Contains significant amounts of added sugar or high-fructose corn syrup, turning it into a sugary beverage with substantial calories. Brands like tonic water or some vitamin waters are examples of this category.

The Impact of Flavored Water on Your Body

While drinking flavored water is better for hydration than not drinking enough fluids, it's important to be aware of the potential side effects, particularly for certain types.

Dental Health Risks

One of the most significant drawbacks of many flavored waters is their effect on dental health. The acids used for flavor, particularly citric acid in many citrus-flavored waters, can be corrosive to tooth enamel. Over time, this erosion can lead to increased tooth sensitivity, discoloration, and a higher risk of cavities. Even sugar-free and artificially sweetened flavored waters are often acidic enough to pose a risk.

Artificial Additives and Their Effects

Many commercially produced flavored waters contain artificial sweeteners and dyes. While regulatory bodies generally consider them safe in small amounts, they can cause issues for some individuals, such as headaches, digestive problems, or allergic reactions. Relying on these artificial flavors can also train taste buds to prefer overly sweet flavors, making plain water less appealing in the future.

Calories and Sugars

Not all flavored waters are created equal when it comes to calories and sugar. Some, like fruit-infused water or unsweetened products, are virtually calorie-free. However, those containing added sugars can quickly contribute to your daily calorie intake, potentially hindering weight management goals. Always scrutinize the nutrition label to understand what you're consuming.

Plain Water vs. Flavored Water: A Comparison

To help you make an informed decision, here is a comparison of the key aspects of plain water and different flavored water options.


Feature	Plain Water	Natural Fruit-Infused Water	Artificially Flavored Water	Sugar-Sweetened Flavored Water
Hydration	Excellent. The purest form of hydration.	Excellent. Hydrates just as effectively.	Excellent. Provides hydration unless it contains diuretic ingredients.	Effective for hydration, but excess sugar can affect fluid balance.
Calories	Zero.	Virtually zero.	Typically zero or very low, but check labels.	Can be high; contains significant calories from added sugars.
Sugar	Zero.	Zero. Natural fruit sweetness is minimal.	Zero, but relies on artificial sweeteners.	Often high, containing added sugars or high-fructose corn syrup.
Dental Health	Safest option. Neutral pH protects enamel.	Very safe, though citrus can be mildly acidic.	Risk of enamel erosion from acidity.	High risk of cavities and enamel damage due to sugar and acid.
Additives	None.	Natural fruits and herbs only.	Contains artificial flavors, sweeteners, and sometimes dyes.	Contains added sugars and potential other additives.
Cost	Least expensive.	Minimal cost for fruit/herbs.	Varies by brand and type.	Varies, but often more expensive than plain water.

How to Make Smart Choices for Hydration

Making the right choice for hydration involves understanding your personal needs and preferences. Here are some key steps to consider.

Read the label carefully. Don't be fooled by marketing terms like "natural flavors". Look for hidden added sugars, artificial sweeteners, and preservatives. The ingredient list provides the most accurate information.
Make your own naturally infused water. This gives you complete control over the ingredients, ensuring no added sugars or artificial flavors. Popular infusions include cucumber and mint, lemon and ginger, or mixed berries.
Choose unsweetened options. If you prefer store-bought, opt for sparkling or still water flavored with natural fruit essences and no added sweeteners. Many brands offer genuinely zero-calorie options without relying on artificial ingredients.
Practice moderation with acidic drinks. If you enjoy acidic flavored waters, consume them with meals rather than sipping them throughout the day. This reduces prolonged exposure of your teeth to acid and helps protect your enamel.
Use flavored water as a bridge. If you find plain water unappealing, using a healthy flavored option can help you transition away from sugary sodas and juices. Over time, you can gradually reduce the intensity of the flavor or alternate with plain water.

Conclusion

In conclusion, does drinking flavored water count as drinking water? Yes, in the sense that it provides essential hydration for the body. However, not all flavored waters are created equal. The health benefits and potential drawbacks depend heavily on the type of flavoring and additives used. While plain water remains the healthiest and most natural option, unsweetened, naturally flavored waters or homemade infusions are excellent alternatives for those who need a little extra motivation to hydrate. By being mindful of ingredients and prioritizing dental health, you can incorporate flavored water into a balanced hydration routine that supports your overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, sparkling flavored water, whether still or carbonated, effectively contributes to your daily fluid intake because its base is water. As with any flavored water, you should check the label to ensure it doesn't contain excessive sugar or artificial additives.

Yes, artificially sweetened flavored water is generally a healthier alternative to sugary soda, as it eliminates the high calorie and sugar content. However, experts still recommend reading labels for other additives and being mindful of potential dental erosion from acidity.

Flavored water containing added sugars can lead to weight gain if consumed in large quantities, as it increases your daily calorie intake. Choosing zero-calorie, sugar-free options or making your own fruit-infused water will prevent unnecessary calorie consumption.

You can easily make your own flavored water by infusing plain water with fresh ingredients like sliced fruits (lemon, cucumber, berries), herbs (mint, basil), or spices (ginger, cinnamon). Let the water sit for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld.

Yes, many flavored waters are mildly acidic due to their flavorings, particularly citrus, which can slowly erode tooth enamel over time. Frequent, prolonged sipping increases this risk, even in sugar-free varieties.

While 'natural flavors' often come from natural sources, they can still be complex mixtures containing chemicals. It is important to remember that manufacturers are not required to disclose all components. For the safest option, stick with real fruit infusions.

Children can drink flavored water, but it's important to choose options without added sugar or artificial sweeteners. Because children's enamel is not fully developed, they are more susceptible to enamel erosion from acidic beverages. Homemade fruit-infused water is the safest option.

Yes, water infused with fruits and herbs is just as hydrating as plain water and can even provide additional vitamins and antioxidants from the natural ingredients.