Does LaCroix quench your thirst? The ultimate guide to sparkling water hydration

November 12, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the Beverage Hydration Index (BHI), which measures a drink's hydrating potential, studies have found that sparkling water is just as hydrating as regular water. This means that for the majority of people, the answer to "Does LaCroix quench your thirst?" is a resounding yes, as its core component is simply water.

Quick Summary

Sparkling water brands like LaCroix are scientifically proven to be just as hydrating as still water, despite common misconceptions. The final determination of a satisfying thirst quencher depends on personal preference and how carbonation affects individual intake.

Key Points

Equally Hydrating: Studies show that sparkling water, like still water, is just as effective at hydrating the body.
Zero-Calorie Alternative: LaCroix offers a zero-sugar, zero-calorie, and zero-sodium alternative to sugary sodas for staying hydrated.
Individual Experience Varies: The carbonation can cause bloating or a feeling of fullness in some individuals, potentially reducing overall intake.
Potential for Tooth Erosion: While minimal for plain sparkling water, the citric acid in some flavored varieties can contribute to enamel erosion over time.
Supports Digestion: For some, carbonated water can help relieve indigestion and constipation, though others may experience discomfort.
Promotes Water Intake: The palatable taste and texture can encourage individuals who dislike plain water to consume more fluids, supporting better hydration habits.

The Science of Sparkling Water Hydration

The fundamental truth about sparkling water is that its primary ingredient is, and always will be, water. The fizziness comes from dissolved carbon dioxide gas under pressure, which, contrary to some myths, does not impede your body's ability to absorb and use the water for hydration. The carbonation is what makes the experience of drinking sparkling water different from still water, but it doesn't change the underlying chemistry of hydration. Scientists often use the Beverage Hydration Index (BHI) to compare how effectively different fluids hydrate the body. In a study that evaluated 13 different beverages, sparkling water demonstrated a BHI score comparable to still water, confirming its effectiveness.

Flavor vs. Form: How LaCroix Quenches Thirst

Unlike sugary sodas or juices that can interfere with hydration due to their high sugar content, LaCroix contains zero sugar, sweeteners, or artificial ingredients. The mild, fruity flavor is derived from natural fruit essences. This means that when you drink a can of LaCroix, you are essentially consuming water with a pleasant taste, making it a viable and healthier alternative to sugary soft drinks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) even endorses sparkling water as a good option for those who don't enjoy plain water, as the bubbles can make it a more appealing way to reach daily fluid goals.

The Pros and Cons of Using LaCroix for Hydration

While LaCroix is an effective hydrator, there are individual factors that influence whether it's the best choice for you. The carbonation can affect different people in different ways, and it's important to be aware of these potential effects.

Potential Downsides for Some Individuals

Bloating and gas: The carbon dioxide bubbles can cause a sensation of fullness, bloating, or gas in some people. For individuals with sensitive digestive systems, like those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), this can be uncomfortable. If you experience these side effects, balancing your intake with still water is recommended.
Feeling satiated faster: The effervescence of sparkling water can curb your thirst more quickly for some individuals, which may lead to drinking less overall. If your goal is to consume a large volume of liquid quickly, like during exercise, still water might be a better choice to ensure adequate fluid intake.
Dental considerations: Plain sparkling water is only mildly acidic and poses a minimal risk to dental health compared to sugary sodas. However, the added citric acid in some citrus-flavored sparkling waters, including some LaCroix flavors, can increase the risk of enamel erosion over time. Drinking with meals or using a straw can help mitigate this risk.

The Health Benefits

Encourages increased water intake: For those who find plain water boring, the variety and taste of LaCroix can make hydration more enjoyable, leading them to drink more water throughout the day.
Weight management: Replacing sugary sodas with a zero-calorie, zero-sugar option like LaCroix can support weight management efforts by reducing overall calorie intake. Staying hydrated also helps your body distinguish between thirst and hunger.
Aids digestion: Some studies suggest that carbonated water can help alleviate symptoms of indigestion and constipation. The carbonation may improve swallowing ability in some older adults as well.

Comparison: LaCroix vs. Other Thirst-Quenchers


Feature	LaCroix/Plain Sparkling Water	Plain Still Water	Sugary Soda
Hydration	Excellent. Equivalent to plain water.	Excellent. The standard for hydration.	Poor. High sugar content can be dehydrating.
Calories	0	0	High (often 100+ per can)
Sugar	0	0	High (significant added sugar)
Impact on Teeth	Minimal risk, especially for unflavored. Citrus flavors are more acidic.	Very low risk. The safest for dental health.	High risk. Acid and sugar cause enamel erosion and decay.
Satiety	Can create feeling of fullness, potentially reducing intake.	Does not induce fullness, allowing for higher volume intake.	Can induce fullness due to sugar and carbonation.

Best Practices for Hydrating with LaCroix

To make the most of your LaCroix as a hydration tool, consider these tips:

Check the label: While LaCroix is known for having no additives, other sparkling water brands may include sugar or artificial sweeteners. Always read the ingredients list to ensure you are getting a healthy, hydrating beverage.
Mix it up: Incorporate both still and sparkling water into your daily routine. This ensures you stay well-hydrated while enjoying the variety LaCroix offers.
Choose plain or less acidic flavors: If you are concerned about dental health, opt for the unflavored or less acidic flavors of LaCroix. You can also use a straw to minimize tooth contact.
Listen to your body: If you experience bloating or discomfort from carbonation, simply reduce your intake. Pay attention to how your body feels and adjust your drinking habits accordingly.
Use it as a transition tool: If you are trying to cut back on sugary sodas, LaCroix is an excellent and satisfying alternative that provides the fizzy sensation without the negative health effects.

Conclusion

The notion that carbonation prevents a drink from being hydrating is a myth; science confirms that LaCroix is just as effective for hydration as plain, still water. The primary difference lies in the sensory experience of the bubbles, which some find more appealing and others find causes discomfort like bloating. By understanding the science and being mindful of personal preferences, LaCroix can be a valuable part of a balanced hydration strategy. Ultimately, the best water for you is the one you will drink consistently, and for many, that happens to be a refreshing can of LaCroix.

Learn more about the science of sparkling water hydration by visiting Healthline's overview of carbonated water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, LaCroix is fundamentally just carbonated water with natural fruit essences. Multiple studies, including those using the Beverage Hydration Index (BHI), have found that plain sparkling water hydrates the body just as effectively as still water.

For some individuals, the carbon dioxide bubbles in sparkling water can cause a feeling of fullness, bloating, or gas. If you have a sensitive digestive system or conditions like IBS, you might be more prone to this effect.

Plain sparkling water poses minimal risk to dental health compared to sugary drinks. However, the citric acid found in some citrus-flavored LaCroix varieties can increase the risk of enamel erosion over time. Drinking in moderation and using a straw can help.

Yes, LaCroix is an excellent and healthier replacement for sugary sodas. It provides the satisfying fizz without the added sugar, artificial sweeteners, or calories found in most soft drinks.

While it is hydrating, some experts suggest avoiding carbonated water during vigorous exercise. The carbonation can cause a feeling of fullness or bloating, which might be uncomfortable when trying to consume large amounts of fluid quickly.

The basic hydrating properties are similar, but ingredient differences matter. Unsweetened sparkling water with no additives is the healthiest. Some brands might add sodium (like club soda) or artificial sweeteners, so it's always best to check the label.

Some research indicates that carbonated water can help improve digestion and relieve constipation in certain individuals. However, for others, the carbonation might cause discomfort, so results vary by person.

No, it is a myth that sparkling water causes dehydration. However, if the carbonation makes you feel full and you end up drinking less overall, it could indirectly impact your total fluid intake. Balancing it with still water can prevent this.