Is it okay if I drink sparkling water every day?

November 2, 2025 •

2 min read

A significant portion of the population struggles to meet their daily fluid intake, making alternatives like bubbly water popular. For those who find plain water boring, the question, is it okay if I drink sparkling water every day?, is a common one, and the answer involves balancing benefits with moderate consumption.

Quick Summary

Drinking plain sparkling water daily is safe for most, aiding hydration and digestion. Excessive intake, however, can potentially increase risks of dental erosion, bloating, or worsening reflux due to mild acidity.

Key Points

Hydration is Key: Plain sparkling water is just as hydrating as regular water, making it a good way to meet daily fluid intake goals.
Dental Considerations: The mild acidity from carbonation poses a minimal risk to enamel for most, but excessive or frequent sipping of flavored varieties (especially with citric acid) can increase the risk of dental erosion.
Digestive Effects Vary: While some find sparkling water aids digestion and helps with constipation, others, particularly those with sensitive stomachs or GERD, may experience bloating, gas, or worsened reflux symptoms.
Choose Unsweetened and Unflavored: Opting for plain sparkling water without added sugars, artificial sweeteners, or acidic flavorings minimizes health risks and provides the most benefit.
Moderation is Essential: Drinking sparkling water in moderation and not letting it completely replace still water is the best approach for mitigating potential downsides and maintaining overall health.

Understanding Sparkling Water: Beyond the Bubbles

Sparkling water is water infused with carbon dioxide gas, creating its fizz. This carbonation can occur naturally (sparkling mineral water) or artificially. Plain sparkling water is a healthier option than sugary drinks, but its acidity and potential additives warrant consideration for daily consumption.

The Health Benefits of Daily Sparkling Water

Drinking sparkling water daily offers several benefits:

Enhances Hydration: Plain sparkling water is as hydrating as still water, making it easier for some to meet fluid intake goals. Hydration supports energy and cognitive function.
Supports Weight Management: With no calories or sugar, it's good for weight control. Carbonation can increase fullness, potentially reducing calorie intake. It is a good soda alternative.
Aids Digestive Health: Some find sparkling water eases indigestion and constipation by stimulating digestion. However, some experience bloating.

Potential Risks and Drawbacks of Daily Consumption

Excessive sparkling water intake can have downsides:

Dental Health Concerns: Carbonated water is mildly acidic, potentially contributing to enamel erosion over time. Flavored versions, often containing citric acid, increase this risk. Strategies like using a straw or drinking with meals can help.
Bloating and Gas: The carbon dioxide can cause gas, burping, and bloating. Individuals with conditions like IBS may be more susceptible.
Worsened Acid Reflux (GERD): Carbonation can increase stomach pressure, potentially worsening GERD symptoms.

A Quick Comparison: Still vs. Sparkling vs. Sugary Soda

Here's a comparison of common beverages:


Feature	Still Water	Plain Sparkling Water	Sugary Soda
Calories	0	0	Typically high (e.g., 140+ per 12 oz)
Sugar Content	0g	0g	High (e.g., 39g+ per 12 oz)
Acidity (pH)	Neutral (around 7.0)	Mildly acidic (~5.0-6.0)	Very acidic (~2.6-3.4)
Hydration Effect	Excellent	Excellent	Poor, can contribute to dehydration
Dental Risk	Very Low	Low to Moderate (depends on frequency/acidity)	High

Tips for Enjoying Daily Sparkling Water Responsibly

To minimize risks with daily sparkling water:

Read the Ingredients List: Choose plain, unsweetened options without artificial additives.
Maintain Variety: Alternate with still water.
Drink with Meals: This helps neutralize acid and protect enamel.
Use a Straw: To reduce contact with teeth if concerned about erosion.
Listen to Your Body: Adjust intake if you experience digestive issues or discomfort.

Conclusion: Finding the Right Balance

For most healthy individuals, drinking plain sparkling water daily in moderation is safe and hydrating. It serves as a good soda alternative and aids fluid intake. Be mindful of its acidity regarding dental health and potential digestive discomfort. Choosing plain varieties and balancing with still water allows you to enjoy sparkling water daily.

For more detailed information on dental health risks from acidic beverages, the American Dental Association offers helpful resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, plain sparkling water is equally as hydrating as still water because it is fundamentally the same (H2O), with the only addition being carbon dioxide.

Plain sparkling water is mildly acidic, but generally considered minimally erosive compared to sugary sodas. Flavored versions, especially with citrus, are more acidic and can contribute to enamel erosion over time with frequent sipping.

For some people, yes. The carbon dioxide bubbles can cause gas and lead to bloating, especially when consumed in large quantities or quickly. This effect varies depending on individual sensitivity.

No, plain sparkling water is not harmful to healthy kidneys. It does not cause kidney stones. Those with pre-existing kidney issues should be mindful of minerals and sodium in some mineral waters and consult a doctor.

It can assist with weight management by being a calorie-free substitute for sugary drinks and potentially increasing feelings of fullness (satiety), which may reduce overall calorie intake.

Yes, drinking acidic beverages like sparkling water with meals helps stimulate saliva production, which naturally neutralizes the acidity and offers some protection for tooth enamel.

Seltzer is plain water carbonated artificially. Club soda is also artificially carbonated but has added minerals for flavor. Sparkling mineral water is naturally carbonated from a spring and contains natural minerals.