Does LaCroix Count as Daily Water Intake?

October 11, 2025 •

4 min read

According to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, sparkling water is just as hydrating as still water, suggesting that beverages like LaCroix can effectively contribute to your daily water intake. For those who find plain water unappealing, this bubbly option offers a refreshing way to meet hydration goals.

Quick Summary

LaCroix and other plain sparkling waters count toward daily fluid goals because they are primarily water. The carbonation and natural flavors do not diminish their hydrating properties. However, moderation is key, and personal factors like digestive sensitivity should be considered. These beverages are excellent sugar-free alternatives to soda.

Key Points

LaCroix is hydrating: Plain sparkling water, including LaCroix, is scientifically proven to be as effective for hydration as still water.
Zero-calorie, zero-sweetener: Unsweetened LaCroix is free of sugar, calories, and artificial additives, making it a healthy alternative to soda and juice.
Motivation to drink more: The variety of natural flavors can make hydration more appealing, encouraging those who dislike plain water to consume more fluids.
Monitor personal effects: While generally safe, some individuals may experience bloating or gas from the carbonation, and dental health should be considered with excessive consumption of acidic flavors.
Part of a balanced diet: LaCroix is best used as a complement to still water, especially during exercise, and not as a complete replacement.

Understanding Hydration and the Role of Sparkling Water

Hydration is a fundamental aspect of nutrition, influencing everything from organ function and joint lubrication to cognitive performance and mood. While the average person's fluid needs can vary, the goal is to consistently replenish the water the body loses daily through perspiration, breathing, and waste removal. Historically, plain tap water has been the gold standard, but with the rise of flavored, zero-calorie sparkling water brands like LaCroix, many are questioning whether these alternatives are equally effective.

The good news for sparkling water enthusiasts is that several studies and expert opinions confirm that plain carbonated water, including LaCroix, is just as hydrating as its still counterpart. The primary ingredient in LaCroix is simply carbonated water with natural flavor essences. These essences are derived from the natural oils of fruits and provide aroma and taste without adding sugar, calories, or sodium. The effervescence from the carbon dioxide gas does not impede the body's ability to absorb the water, and most of the gas is released in the stomach. This makes LaCroix a suitable and effective option for staying hydrated throughout the day.

Potential Benefits of Choosing LaCroix

For many, drinking plain water can become monotonous. The variety of flavors offered by brands like LaCroix can make meeting daily fluid goals more enjoyable. For individuals transitioning away from sugary sodas and juices, sparkling water provides a satisfying, bubbly mouthfeel and flavor without the negative health impacts associated with added sugars. This can be a significant step toward improving overall dietary habits and reducing the risk of conditions like obesity and type 2 diabetes. Additionally, some studies have shown that carbonated water can offer digestive benefits, such as relieving symptoms of indigestion and constipation in certain individuals. The bubbles may also help create a feeling of fullness, which could aid in weight management by reducing overall calorie intake.

The Fine Print: Considerations for Daily Intake

While LaCroix and similar unsweetened sparkling waters are excellent hydration sources, they aren't without caveats for certain individuals. The carbonation can sometimes cause gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating and gas, for those with sensitive stomachs or conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). The added carbon dioxide creates a weak carbonic acid, which can slightly increase the beverage's acidity. While plain sparkling water is considered less damaging to tooth enamel than soft drinks and fruit juices, excessive consumption over time could theoretically pose a minor risk, particularly if flavored varieties contain citric acid. A balanced approach, which includes drinking a mix of still and sparkling water, can help mitigate these potential issues.

Still vs. Sparkling Water Comparison


Feature	Plain Still Water	Plain LaCroix/Sparkling Water
Hydration	Excellent, absorbed quickly.	Excellent, equal to still water.
Taste	Neutral, can become monotonous for some.	Offers a variety of natural fruit essences.
Calories/Sugar	Zero.	Zero.
Digestion	Gentle on the stomach.	May cause bloating or gas in sensitive individuals; can aid digestion in others.
Dental Health	Neutral pH, no risk to enamel.	Mildly acidic; much safer than soda, but moderation is advised.
Cost	Typically less expensive than bottled options.	Slightly more expensive than tap water, but comparable to other bottled waters.

Making LaCroix Part of a Balanced Hydration Plan

To effectively incorporate LaCroix into a healthy diet, consider it a tool to boost your total fluid intake, especially if you struggle with drinking enough plain water. A good strategy is to alternate between still water and sparkling water throughout the day. You can also enhance your homemade sparkling water by adding fresh fruit, cucumber, or herbs for extra flavor without relying on potentially more acidic pre-flavored products. The key is to listen to your body and adjust your intake based on how you feel. While LaCroix is a healthy and hydrating option, it should complement, not completely replace, your overall fluid intake, especially during periods of intense exercise when rapid rehydration is critical.

Conclusion

Yes, LaCroix absolutely counts as part of your daily water intake. When choosing a flavor that is free of added sugars, calories, and artificial sweeteners, LaCroix is just as effective at hydrating the body as still water. It provides a flavorful, bubbly alternative that can help many people increase their fluid consumption and reduce their reliance on sugary beverages. While individual sensitivities to carbonation should be monitored, for most people, LaCroix is a perfectly healthy and hydrating choice. By understanding its nutritional profile and how it compares to other beverages, you can make an informed decision to support your hydration and overall health goals. For personalized advice, consult a healthcare professional or registered dietitian. For more on hydration, check out resources like the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, LaCroix is just as hydrating as regular, still water. Studies, including one in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, found that plain carbonated water has the same hydrating effect as still water.

You can, but it's often recommended to include a mix of still water as well. While LaCroix is hydrating, some people find that the carbonation can cause bloating or may prefer plain water for its neutral taste, especially during exercise.

No, the carbonation in sparkling water has not been shown to be bad for your bones. The carbonation does not leech calcium from bones, and the beverage is a much healthier choice than sugary sodas, which have been linked to lower bone mineral density.

Plain sparkling water is only mildly acidic and is not considered a significant risk for dental erosion, especially compared to sugary drinks and sodas. However, flavored varieties containing added citric acid may be slightly more acidic. Rinsing with plain water after consumption can help.

The ingredients in LaCroix are simply carbonated water and natural flavors. These natural flavors are derived from the natural essence oils of fruits and contain no calories, sweeteners, or sodium.

Yes, LaCroix is an excellent and healthy replacement for soda. It provides a satisfying fizz and flavor without any added sugars or calories, helping you reduce your intake of sugary beverages.

LaCroix can aid in weight management by providing a zero-calorie, sugar-free alternative to high-calorie beverages. Some studies also suggest that the carbonation can promote feelings of fullness, potentially leading to reduced calorie intake.