Does SodaStream Count as Water Intake? The Truth About Sparkling Hydration

October 25, 2025 •

4 min read

According to a 2015 study, the use of a SodaStream machine increased weekly water intake by 46% among participants. If the base is plain water, the carbonated water from a SodaStream machine counts as regular fluid intake and hydrates the body just as effectively as still water.

Quick Summary

This article clarifies whether sparkling water from a SodaStream is as hydrating as still water. It explores the science behind carbonation and fluid absorption, addresses common myths, and examines how flavorings can affect overall hydration and health. Practical tips for maximizing fluid intake with a soda maker are also covered.

Key Points

Equally Hydrating: Plain sparkling water from a SodaStream hydrates the body just as effectively as plain still water.
No Dehydration Myth: The carbonation process itself does not cause dehydration; it is a myth.
Flavorings Matter: The hydration value of your SodaStream drink is dependent on what you add; unsweetened essences maintain hydration, while sugary syrups do not.
Customization Boosts Intake: A SodaStream can help you increase your overall water intake by making it more fun and appealing than plain tap water.
Minor Downsides: Some individuals may experience bloating or mild digestive discomfort from carbonation, and there is a very minimal risk of dental enamel erosion over time compared to still water.
Better than Sugary Soda: For those transitioning away from sugary soft drinks, plain sparkling water is a far healthier and more hydrating alternative.

Is Carbonated Water as Hydrating as Plain Water?

One of the most persistent myths surrounding sparkling water is that the carbonation somehow inhibits hydration. This is a misconception. From a physiological standpoint, your body processes sparkling water and still water in virtually the same way. The only significant difference is the presence of dissolved carbon dioxide gas, which creates the bubbles. This gas is released from the liquid in your stomach and is expelled from the body, leaving the water to be absorbed just like non-carbonated water. Multiple studies confirm this. For example, research using the Beverage Hydration Index (BHI) shows that sparkling and still water have comparable hydration effects.

The Impact of Flavorings on Hydration

While a SodaStream itself turns plain water into plain sparkling water, many users add flavor syrups. This is where the hydration conversation becomes more complex. Adding flavorings, especially those with sugar or artificial sweeteners, can alter the health profile of the drink. Sugary sodas and juices are less hydrating due to their high sugar content, which the body must process. However, many SodaStream flavorings are unsweetened fruit essences or low-sugar options. If you add zero-calorie, natural flavorings, the hydration effect remains largely unchanged. The key is to read labels and be mindful of what you're adding.

Practical Ways to Boost Your Water Intake with SodaStream

For many, the biggest obstacle to adequate hydration is boredom with plain water. A SodaStream can make drinking water more enjoyable and exciting. By having a bubbly, customizable drink readily available, you may be more likely to reach for it throughout the day. This simple enjoyment can lead to a significant increase in overall fluid consumption.

Customize Your Flavored Hydration

Unsweetened Fruit Essences: Use SodaStream's own zero-calorie, natural fruit drops or create your own infusions with fresh fruit slices, herbs like mint or basil, or cucumber.
DIY Syrups: If you prefer sweeter flavors, make your own simple syrups with a small amount of honey, agave, or a non-caloric natural sweetener like stevia. This gives you full control over the sugar content.
Electrolyte Add-ins: For post-workout hydration, consider adding a sugar-free electrolyte powder to your sparkling water. This can replenish lost minerals more effectively than plain water.

Potential Downsides and Considerations

While generally beneficial, a few caveats exist when using a SodaStream for daily hydration. Some people with sensitive digestive systems, like those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), might experience bloating or gas due to the carbonation. For these individuals, still water may be a more comfortable option. Additionally, while plain carbonated water is far less acidic than sugary sodas, it is still slightly more acidic than tap water. This could potentially affect dental enamel over time, though the risk is minimal, especially when compared to sugary drinks. To mitigate this, dental professionals recommend using a straw or drinking sparkling water with meals.

SodaStream vs. Bottled Sparkling Water


Feature	SodaStream Sparkling Water	Bottled Sparkling Water
Cost	Lower long-term cost for the amount of sparkling water consumed.	Higher long-term cost due to repeated purchases.
Convenience	Instant access to sparkling water at home. Requires refilling and carbonating bottles.	Requires purchasing and transporting bottles from a store.
Environmental Impact	Significantly reduces plastic bottle waste.	Contributes to single-use plastic waste.
Customization	Complete control over carbonation level and flavor.	Limited to commercially available options and flavors.
Additives	Only contains what you add, typically just water and CO2.	Varies by brand; may contain sodium, minerals, or other ingredients.

Conclusion

In summary, the answer to "does SodaStream count as water intake" is a definitive yes. Sparkling water made from a SodaStream is just as effective for hydration as still water, provided you are using it with plain, unsweetened water. The bubbles do not negate the hydrating benefits of the water itself. For individuals who find plain water unappealing, a SodaStream can be a fantastic tool to encourage higher overall fluid intake by making hydration a more pleasant and customizable experience. By opting for plain or naturally flavored sparkling water, you can enjoy the fizz without the added sugar and calories of traditional sodas. The most important factor for staying hydrated is consistency, so choose the method that works best for you and your lifestyle.

Understanding the Beverage Hydration Index (BHI)

The Beverage Hydration Index (BHI) is a scientific method for comparing the hydrating potential of various drinks. It measures the volume of urine produced after drinking a specific beverage and compares it to the volume produced after drinking still water. Studies have shown that plain sparkling water and plain still water have very similar BHI values, meaning their hydrating effect on the body is effectively the same. This evidence further supports that sparkling water from a SodaStream is a valid form of water intake.

How to Maximize Your Hydration with SodaStream

To get the most out of your SodaStream for hydration, focus on a few key practices:

Prioritize Plain Sparkling Water: Make sure a significant portion of your intake is just carbonated water without any add-ins. This ensures maximum hydration without any potentially negative effects from sugars or artificial sweeteners.
Use Natural Flavor Enhancements: For variety, infuse your water with fresh fruits, herbs, or use SodaStream's unsweetened flavor drops.
Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how your body responds. If you experience bloating, gas, or other discomforts, you might need to alternate between still and sparkling water.
Stay Hydrated During Exercise with Still Water: The carbonation can cause bloating, which might be uncomfortable during intense physical activity. It is recommended to stick to still water for quick rehydration during workouts.
Use a Straw for Dental Health: If you are concerned about potential enamel erosion from the mild acidity, drinking with a straw can help minimize contact with your teeth.

By following these tips, you can effectively use your SodaStream to stay properly hydrated and feel your best.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, plain sparkling water from a SodaStream is just as effective for hydration as regular still water because both have the same H2O base. The carbonation does not interfere with the body's ability to absorb the water.

If you add unsweetened, zero-calorie flavorings to your SodaStream water, it still counts toward your daily water intake. However, if you add sugary syrups, the high sugar content can counteract the hydrating effects, so these should not be your primary source of fluids.

No, plain sparkling water does not cause dehydration. This is a myth. The body processes carbonated water the same way as still water, making it a perfectly valid fluid for meeting your hydration needs.

Yes, a SodaStream can be an excellent tool for those who dislike plain water. The bubbly texture and option to add natural flavors can make drinking water more appealing, encouraging greater overall fluid intake.

For most people, there are no major health downsides. The carbonation can cause bloating or gas in some sensitive individuals. The mild acidity is much less harmful to teeth than sugary sodas, but good oral hygiene is still recommended.

It is generally better to stick with still water during intense workouts. The carbonation in sparkling water can sometimes cause bloating or discomfort, which is not ideal when exercising. For mild activity or after a workout, sparkling water is fine.

The Beverage Hydration Index (BHI) is a measure of a drink's hydrating potential. Studies show that plain sparkling water and still water have comparable BHI scores, confirming that your SodaStream water hydrates you just as well as tap water.