Is it bad if I only drink soda water?

December 26, 2025 •

4 min read

While plain soda water is generally seen as a healthy alternative to sugary soft drinks, relying solely on it for hydration can have potential drawbacks. It is important to consider factors like dental health, digestive comfort, and mineral intake before deciding if exclusively drinking soda water is the right choice for you.

Quick Summary

The health effects of only drinking soda water hinge on the type and quantity consumed. Plain, unsweetened soda water is a hydrating, calorie-free option but its acidity can potentially impact dental enamel over time. It may also cause bloating for some individuals, and mineral water variants could contribute to excess sodium. A balanced approach incorporating still water is often recommended for optimal health.

Key Points

Dental Erosion Risk: Plain soda water is more acidic than tap water, posing a risk of enamel erosion over prolonged, frequent consumption, especially if flavored with citric acid.
Seltzer vs. Soda Water: The term 'soda water' often includes added minerals, particularly sodium, while 'seltzer' is pure carbonated water. Opt for plain seltzer to avoid excess sodium.
Potential Digestive Discomfort: The carbon dioxide in soda water can cause bloating, gas, and burping in some individuals, particularly those with sensitive stomachs or IBS.
Hydrates as Effectively as Still Water: Unsweetened soda water provides the same level of hydration as plain water. Its satisfying fizz can encourage people who dislike still water to drink more.
Superior to Sugary Drinks: As a calorie-free, sugar-free alternative, plain soda water is a much healthier choice than traditional sweetened sodas.
Lacks Fluoride: Unlike most tap water, bottled soda water lacks fluoride, a mineral essential for strengthening tooth enamel.
Bone Health Myth Debunked: Plain carbonated water has no proven negative effect on bone density. This concern is primarily associated with phosphoric acid in cola drinks.
Listen to Your Body: Individuals should pay attention to how their body responds to carbonation. If you experience discomfort, reducing or alternating your intake is advisable.

Understanding the difference: Soda water vs. other carbonated drinks

The umbrella term 'carbonated water' covers a variety of fizzy drinks, and it is crucial to differentiate between them when considering the health impacts of regular consumption. Most health concerns associated with carbonated beverages actually stem from sugary or heavily processed variants, not plain soda water itself. Soda water (also known as club soda or seltzer) is simply water infused with carbon dioxide gas. It is important to read the label to ensure you are consuming a plain, sugar-free version, as some manufacturers add sodium or sweeteners.

Seltzer water: Pure carbonated water with no added minerals, offering a neutral taste.
Club soda: Carbonated water with added minerals like sodium bicarbonate and potassium sulfate, which can give it a slightly salty taste.
Sparkling mineral water: Naturally carbonated water sourced from a spring or well, containing naturally occurring minerals.
Tonic water: Carbonated water that includes quinine and added sugars or sweeteners, making it significantly different from plain soda water.

The good and the bad: Pros and cons of an exclusive soda water diet

Solely consuming plain soda water can bring both benefits and potential risks, depending on individual health and the specific product. For many, it's a great stepping stone away from unhealthy sugary beverages. However, the long-term, exclusive replacement of still water is where the potential downsides start to accumulate.

Potential benefits

Aids hydration: Plain carbonated water is just as hydrating as still water, helping you meet your daily fluid needs. The enjoyable fizzy sensation can encourage those who dislike plain water to drink more.
Supports digestion: For some individuals, the carbonation can aid in digestion, relieve constipation, and improve swallowing ability.
Promotes fullness: Drinking carbonated water has been linked to increased feelings of fullness after meals, which could support weight management efforts.
Satiates cravings: The effervescence provides a satisfying alternative for those transitioning away from sugary sodas, fulfilling the craving for a fizzy drink without the calories or sugar.

Potential risks

Dental enamel erosion: While less corrosive than sugary sodas, the carbonic acid in soda water makes it more acidic than tap water. Constant sipping throughout the day exposes teeth to this acid, potentially leading to enamel erosion over time.
Bloating and gas: The carbon dioxide gas in soda water can cause uncomfortable bloating, burping, and gas, especially for those with sensitive digestive systems or conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Sodium intake: Club soda contains added sodium. Drinking large quantities can lead to excessive sodium intake, a concern for people with high blood pressure or kidney issues.
Lack of fluoride: Unlike most tap water in the US, bottled soda water lacks fluoride, a mineral essential for strengthening tooth enamel and preventing decay.

Comparison: Plain soda water vs. tap water


Feature	Plain Soda Water (Seltzer)	Tap Water
Cost	Can be significantly more expensive due to bottling and processing.	Generally the most economical option.
Fluoride Content	Typically lacks fluoride, which is crucial for dental health.	Most tap water in the US is fluoridated, helping to prevent tooth decay.
Acidity (pH)	Slightly acidic due to carbonation (pH 3-5).	Neutral or slightly alkaline (pH 7 or higher).
Hydration	As hydrating as still water.	Provides optimal, no-fuss hydration.
Digestive Effects	Can cause bloating and gas for sensitive individuals.	Neutral effect, suitable for all.
Sustainability	Bottled varieties contribute to plastic waste. Home carbonation is more sustainable.	Most sustainable option, delivered directly to your home.

Expert advice and conclusion

While unsweetened soda water can be a part of a healthy diet, exclusively replacing all other water intake with it is not recommended for most people. The potential for long-term dental enamel erosion, digestive discomfort, and the lack of fluoride found in tap water makes a balanced approach superior. For those looking for the fizz without the fuss, it's best to rotate between still and carbonated water throughout the day. Consider drinking still water during workouts and with meals to help neutralize acidity. If you have sensitive teeth or digestive issues, listening to your body and limiting intake is crucial. By being mindful of the type of soda water you choose—opting for plain seltzer over varieties with added sodium or citric acid—you can enjoy the bubbly sensation without excessive risk.

Conclusion: Find your balance for bubbly hydration

Is it bad if I only drink soda water? Not in moderation, but exclusively replacing still water is not ideal. While it offers a great, calorie-free alternative to sugary soft drinks and provides comparable hydration, the constant acidity can risk dental enamel over time. Furthermore, for some, the carbonation causes digestive discomfort like bloating and gas. A balanced hydration strategy is the best path forward. Rotate between plain seltzer and still tap water, ensuring you also benefit from natural minerals and fluoride. This approach allows you to enjoy the satisfying fizz while safeguarding your teeth and digestive comfort for the long run. Listening to your body and moderating your intake are key to making any carbonated beverage a healthy part of your daily routine.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, this is a myth. Plain soda water is simply water with added carbon dioxide and is just as hydrating as still water. It counts toward your daily fluid intake.

Plain soda water is more acidic than still water, creating a minor risk for enamel erosion over time. However, it is significantly less harmful than sugary sodas. For better dental health, limit intake or drink with meals.

Yes, for some people, the carbon dioxide gas in soda water can cause temporary bloating, gas, or burping. Individuals with sensitive stomachs or IBS may be more susceptible to this effect.

No, numerous studies have shown no negative effect of carbonated water on bone density. The misconception often arises from the link between phosphoric acid in cola and lower bone mineral density.

Plain seltzer water, which contains no added minerals, sodium, sugar, or artificial sweeteners, is the healthiest option. Sparkling mineral water is also a good choice, providing natural minerals.

Some studies suggest that plain carbonated water can help relieve constipation and indigestion in certain individuals. The bubbles may stimulate gut movement, though results can vary.

While plain soda water is generally not harmful to the kidneys, some varieties contain added sodium. People with kidney disease should be mindful of sodium intake and consult a healthcare provider.