Does LaCroix Count as Drinking Water? The Definitive Guide

November 12, 2025 •

4 min read

According to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, plain sparkling water was found to be just as hydrating as still water, making LaCroix a valid contributor to your daily fluid intake. This guide explores why and how does LaCroix count as drinking water, delving into its components and comparisons to other beverages.

Quick Summary

LaCroix and other unflavored sparkling waters offer the same hydrating benefits as regular water, as they share the same fundamental ingredient: H2O. The carbonation does not diminish its effectiveness, but factors like added sweeteners or bloating can affect overall consumption. It serves as a healthy alternative to sugary sodas.

Key Points

Equally Hydrating: LaCroix is just as effective at hydrating the body as still water, as it is composed almost entirely of H2O.
Zero Sugar and Calories: Unlike soda, plain LaCroix contains no added sugar, artificial sweeteners, or calories, making it a healthy alternative.
Flavor from Natural Essences: The taste comes from natural fruit essence oils, not sugary additives, which maintains its healthy profile.
Hydration Motivation: For those who find plain water boring, the fizz and flavor of LaCroix can encourage them to drink more fluids overall.
Potential Bloating: The carbonation can cause bloating or gas in some individuals, which might reduce their fluid intake.
Dental Impact is Minimal: While slightly more acidic than still water, plain sparkling water is far less harmful to tooth enamel than sugary sodas.

The Science Behind Sparkling Water and Hydration

At its core, LaCroix is simply carbonated water infused with natural fruit essences. The addition of carbon dioxide gas creates the signature bubbles, but it does not change the water's fundamental hydrating properties. Your body absorbs the H2O from sparkling water in the same way it does from still water. This has been supported by scientific research, including a study that developed a 'beverage hydration index' (BHI) where sparkling water scored equivalently to still water.

The Impact of Carbonation

While the carbonation doesn't impact the chemical process of hydration, it can influence drinking habits. For some, the fizzy sensation makes drinking water more enjoyable, encouraging them to consume more fluids. This is especially helpful for those who find plain water boring and might otherwise reach for sugary drinks. However, the bubbles can also cause some people to feel full or bloated more quickly, which might inadvertently lead to them drinking less overall. For this reason, many experts recommend balancing both still and sparkling water throughout the day.

What are 'Natural Flavors'?

LaCroix's signature taste comes from "natural essence oils" derived from the named fruit, not sugars or artificial sweeteners. This is a crucial distinction. Many other flavored sparkling waters on the market use artificial sweeteners or added sugars that can counteract the health benefits. The inclusion of these extras can change a beverage's hydrating effectiveness and calorie count. Since LaCroix contains no calories, sugars, or artificial ingredients, it maintains its status as a healthy, hydrating beverage.

LaCroix vs. Other Beverages

To understand why LaCroix is a good choice for hydration, it helps to compare it to other common drink options. Here is a breakdown of how different beverages stack up:


Beverage	Hydration Quality	Added Sugar/Sweeteners	Electrolytes	Comments
Plain Water	High	No	No	The gold standard for hydration. Free of all additives.
LaCroix Sparkling Water	High	No	No	Equally hydrating as still water, with zero calories and a flavor twist.
Sugary Soda	Low	Yes	No	The high sugar content can cause a net dehydrating effect and offers empty calories.
Sports Drinks	Moderate-High	Yes (often)	Yes	Formulated for athletes to replace electrolytes and carbohydrates, but not ideal for casual hydration due to sugar content.
Coffee/Tea (Black)	Moderate	No	No	Caffeinated beverages are slightly diuretic, but still contribute to fluid intake.
Flavored Seltzers (with sweeteners)	Variable	Yes	Variable	Hydrating properties can be compromised by artificial ingredients or sugar, and often less healthy.

Health Benefits of Choosing LaCroix

Beyond just hydration, opting for unsweetened sparkling water like LaCroix can offer several health advantages. For individuals accustomed to drinking sugary sodas or fruit juices, switching to LaCroix is a significant step towards a healthier lifestyle. The satisfying carbonation can help curb cravings for high-calorie, sugary beverages, assisting with weight management. Some studies also suggest that the carbonation in sparkling water can aid digestion and alleviate symptoms of indigestion or constipation for some individuals.

Potential Concerns

While generally safe for most people, some individuals should be mindful of their sparkling water intake. Those with sensitive digestive systems, such as people with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), might find that the carbonation exacerbates bloating or gas. Additionally, though plain sparkling water is minimally damaging, it is slightly more acidic than still water, which could potentially impact tooth enamel over time with excessive consumption. However, the American Dental Association notes that its effect is far less significant than sugary drinks.

Conclusion

So, does LaCroix count as drinking water? The simple answer is yes. As a calorie-free, sugar-free, and sodium-free beverage, LaCroix is just as effective at hydrating the body as regular water. For many, the flavorful fizz makes it a more appealing option, helping them meet their daily fluid intake goals. However, it's a matter of personal preference and how your body responds to carbonation. By understanding the science behind sparkling water and being mindful of potential issues like bloating, you can confidently integrate LaCroix into a healthy hydration routine.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider regarding your health and hydration needs.

How to Maximize Your Hydration

Mix it up: Alternate between still water and sparkling water throughout the day to keep your palate interested.
Infuse with fresh ingredients: For more flavor without additives, add slices of fresh lemon, lime, cucumber, or berries to your LaCroix.
Read labels: Always check the ingredients of flavored sparkling waters to ensure they don't contain hidden sugars or artificial sweeteners.
Listen to your body: If you experience bloating or discomfort, reduce your sparkling water intake and focus more on still water.

Additional Considerations for LaCroix

While the science confirms LaCroix is hydrating, it is important to remember that it is not a direct substitute for the minerals sometimes found in tap or mineral water. The most effective hydration strategy is often a balanced approach that includes a variety of fluid sources, including tap water, mineral water, and unsweetened beverages like LaCroix.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, LaCroix is just as hydrating as regular water. The addition of carbon dioxide does not inhibit its ability to hydrate the body, as it shares the same water base.

LaCroix uses natural essence oils extracted from the named fruit to add flavor. These essences are free of sugars, calories, and artificial sweeteners.

While LaCroix is hydrating, experts often recommend a balanced intake of fluids, including still water, to avoid potential issues like bloating from carbonation. Mixing up your fluid sources is often best.

The carbonation in sparkling water can cause some individuals to feel bloated or gassy, especially if consumed in large quantities. People with sensitive stomachs, such as those with IBS, might want to limit their intake.

Plain sparkling water is only slightly more acidic than still water, and research shows it poses minimal risk to tooth enamel compared to sugary sodas or fruit juices.

Yes, LaCroix is an excellent and healthy alternative to sugary sodas. It provides the satisfying fizz and flavor without the high calories and sugar content.

For most healthy individuals, drinking one or two cans of LaCroix a day is fine. However, it is important to listen to your body and balance it with still water to maintain hydration without discomfort.