Is Aerated Water Healthy? Unpacking the Fizz and the Facts

December 26, 2025 •

4 min read

According to a 2025 study from CNN, the consumption of carbonated water is booming, as many consumers are switching from sugary sodas to supposedly healthier fizzy alternatives. This surge in popularity prompts a crucial question for the health-conscious: is aerated water healthy, or are the bubbles hiding a different story?

Quick Summary

This article explores whether aerated, or carbonated, water is a healthy choice by examining its effects on hydration, dental health, digestion, and bone density. We differentiate between plain sparkling water and sweetened or mineral-added versions, offering a balanced perspective on the benefits versus the potential downsides of this popular bubbly beverage.

Key Points

Plain aerated water is healthy: Unsweetened, unflavored carbonated water is a beneficial, calorie-free alternative to sugary sodas and is just as hydrating as regular water.
Watch for hidden ingredients: Many flavored aerated waters contain added sugars, artificial sweeteners, or high levels of citric acid that can negatively impact health, including dental enamel and digestive comfort.
May support digestion: The carbonation can assist with digestion and increase feelings of fullness, which is beneficial for weight management.
Can cause bloating for some: The gas in carbonated water can cause bloating, gas, or aggravate symptoms for individuals with sensitive digestive systems like IBS or GERD.
Minimal dental erosion risk (if unsweetened): While slightly acidic, plain sparkling water poses minimal risk to tooth enamel compared to sugary soft drinks.
No evidence of bone harm: Contrary to a popular myth, plain aerated water has not been shown to negatively impact bone density.
Check sodium content: Club soda and some other types of aerated water contain added sodium, so check labels if you are monitoring your sodium intake.

The Science of the Fizz: What Is Aerated Water?

At its core, aerated water is simply water that has been infused with carbon dioxide ($CO_2$) gas under pressure. This process creates the familiar effervescent or "fizzy" quality that many people enjoy. Different products fall under this umbrella, including:

Seltzer Water: Purified water that has been artificially carbonated. It contains no added minerals.
Club Soda: Also artificially carbonated, but with added minerals like sodium bicarbonate and potassium sulfate, which give it a slightly salty taste.
Sparkling Mineral Water: Water sourced from a natural spring or well that contains naturally occurring minerals and, sometimes, natural carbonation. The level of fizz can be enhanced during bottling.
Tonic Water: Carbonated water with added quinine and, often, a significant amount of sugar or high-fructose corn syrup. Due to its sugar content, it is generally not considered a healthy alternative to plain aerated water.

Aerated Water and Your Health: Benefits and Risks

Potential Benefits

Plain, unsweetened aerated water offers several health benefits, primarily by helping people meet their hydration needs. For those who find still water unappealing, the bubbles can make drinking water more enjoyable.

Improved Hydration: Like still water, plain aerated water is calorie-free and can help you stay properly hydrated.
Weight Management Support: By increasing feelings of fullness or satiety, aerated water can help reduce overall calorie intake. It also serves as an excellent, calorie-free substitute for sugary soft drinks.
Digestive Aid: The carbonation can aid digestion in some individuals by stimulating the nerves responsible for swallowing and potentially improving gut motility. It may also help relieve symptoms of constipation.

Potential Risks and Considerations

While generally safe, there are a few considerations, especially for those with certain health sensitivities or for consumers of flavored varieties.

Dental Health Concerns: Carbon dioxide creates carbonic acid, which makes aerated water slightly acidic. While plain aerated water is far less corrosive than sugary sodas, which contain high levels of corrosive phosphoric acid, flavored varieties with added citric acid can be more erosive to tooth enamel. Drinking sparkling water with meals or rinsing with plain water afterward can help mitigate this risk.
Bloating and Gas: The carbon dioxide in aerated water can cause bloating, gas, or burping in some people. Individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) might find their symptoms aggravated by carbonated drinks.

Comparison Table: Aerated Water vs. Other Beverages

To better understand how plain aerated water stacks up, here is a comparison with other common drink options.


Feature	Plain Aerated Water	Sugary Soda	Still Water	Flavored Aerated Water (with additives)
Calories	0	High (often 100+ per serving)	0	Often 0, but check labels
Added Sugars	0	Yes (high fructose corn syrup)	0	Can contain added sugar or artificial sweeteners
Dental Impact	Minimal erosion risk	High erosion risk	None	Potentially higher erosion risk due to citric acid
Hydration	Excellent	Poor (can contribute to dehydration)	Excellent	Excellent
Digestive Effect	Can aid some, but cause bloating in others	Can cause indigestion and bloating	Neutral	Can cause bloating if sensitive
Bone Health	No negative impact	Some studies link cola to lower bone density	No negative impact	No negative impact

Making the Best Choice for Your Health

The key takeaway is that not all aerated water is created equal. Plain, unsweetened sparkling or seltzer water can be a healthy and effective way to meet hydration goals, especially as a replacement for high-calorie, sugary beverages. However, reading labels is crucial to avoid hidden sugars, artificial sweeteners, and excessive sodium.

For those with digestive sensitivities, it's wise to monitor how your body reacts and consider scaling back intake if bloating or gas becomes an issue. Ultimately, plain aerated water offers a refreshing and low-risk alternative for those seeking a little fizz in their hydration routine, without sacrificing their health.

Conclusion

In summary, plain aerated water is a healthy choice, comparable to still water in terms of hydration benefits. The potential downsides, such as dental erosion and digestive discomfort, are primarily linked to flavored or sweetened versions and pre-existing sensitivities. By choosing unsweetened options and moderating consumption if needed, you can enjoy the fizzy sensation without compromising your wellness goals.

Stay Hydrated, Your Way: Choose plain aerated water over sugary sodas to maintain hydration levels effectively.

Guard Your Gut: Individuals with IBS or GERD should be mindful of how carbonation affects their symptoms.

Read the Label: Always check for added sugars, artificial sweeteners, and high sodium levels, which can detract from the health benefits.

Protect Your Teeth: To minimize enamel erosion, opt for unflavored sparkling water and avoid versions with added citric acid.

Consider the Context: Enjoying plain aerated water with meals is a good strategy to mitigate any potential dental risks and aid digestion.

Moderation is Key: While a healthy choice, excessive intake can lead to unwanted bloating or gas for some.

Know Your Options: Understand the differences between seltzer, club soda, and sparkling mineral water to make an informed choice based on your taste and health needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, plain aerated water is calorie-free and can even assist with weight management by helping you feel full and reducing your intake of sugary drinks.

Plain aerated water is only slightly more erosive to teeth than still water and far less so than sugary sodas. Flavored versions with added citric acid are a greater risk, but the impact is generally minimal. Rinsing your mouth with plain water after consumption can help.

Yes, for some individuals, the carbon dioxide gas in aerated water can cause bloating or gas. Those with digestive sensitivities like IBS or GERD are more likely to experience this side effect.

Yes, plain aerated water is just as hydrating as still water. It can be a great way to stay on track with your hydration goals, especially if you find the bubbles more enjoyable.

No, plain aerated water has not been linked to any negative effects on bone health. The myth likely stems from studies on dark cola, which contains phosphoric acid and has been linked to lower bone density.

Seltzer is artificially carbonated water with no added minerals. Club soda has added minerals like sodium bicarbonate. Sparkling mineral water comes from a natural spring and contains naturally occurring minerals.

Yes, for most people, drinking plain aerated water every day is safe and healthy, as long as you're not experiencing any adverse effects like bloating or gas. Always opt for unsweetened versions.