Is LaCroix Flavored Water Healthy? An In-Depth Look

January 11, 2026 •

4 min read

According to the CDC, swapping sugary sodas for sparkling water like LaCroix can be a healthy choice. But with persistent questions about its natural ingredients and effects on dental health, many still wonder: is LaCroix flavored water healthy? This article explores the pros and cons of this popular beverage to help you make an informed decision.

Quick Summary

An examination of LaCroix's nutritional profile, ingredients, and health impacts. Analysis covers dental health risks, potential digestive issues, and its role as a better-for-you alternative to sugary sodas. A comparison with other beverages and a discussion of key ingredients provide clarity.

Key Points

Zero Sugar and Calories: LaCroix offers a satisfying fizzy alternative to soda without the associated calories, sugars, or artificial sweeteners.
Natural Flavors Are Safe: Despite past controversy, the 'natural flavors' in LaCroix have been confirmed to be derived from natural sources and are deemed safe for consumption by regulatory bodies.
Minor Dental Erosion Risk: The carbonic acid from carbonation can pose a risk to tooth enamel with excessive, frequent consumption, though it is far less damaging than soda.
Potential Digestive Discomfort: Some individuals might experience bloating, gas, or worsened GERD symptoms due to the carbonation.
Excellent Hydration: LaCroix is just as hydrating as still water and can encourage greater fluid intake for those who find plain water unappealing.
Effective for Weight Management: By replacing sugary drinks, LaCroix can support weight loss efforts, though its impact is a small part of an overall healthy strategy.

Understanding LaCroix's Core Components

At its most basic, LaCroix is carbonated water infused with natural flavors. The company proudly states its products contain no calories, no sugar, no sodium, and no artificial sweeteners. This simple composition is often cited as its main health benefit, making it a popular replacement for high-calorie, sugar-laden drinks like soda. For many, this makes LaCroix a seemingly perfect way to stay hydrated and enjoy a bubbly beverage without the negative consequences of conventional soft drinks. However, the healthfulness of the beverage requires a closer look at a few key areas.

The “Natural Flavors” Controversy and Health Impact

For years, LaCroix has been under scrutiny for its "all-natural" flavoring claim. A 2018 class-action lawsuit alleged the company used synthetic ingredients, sparking widespread concern.

The Science Behind the Flavors

Linalool: Alleged to be an ingredient in cockroach insecticide, Linalool is also a naturally occurring compound found in over 200 species of plants, including citrus fruits, mint, and lavender. The FDA and JECFA have deemed it safe for consumption.
Limonene: Cited for potential toxicity, Limonene is another naturally occurring chemical found in citrus peels and is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA.

While the lawsuit was dismissed, the public conversation highlighted that "natural flavors" are not a single, transparent ingredient but rather a complex mixture of compounds derived from natural sources. Ultimately, third-party lab testing confirmed LaCroix's ingredients were derived from natural sources, such as fruit, reinforcing the safety profile based on current regulatory standards.

Dental Health Concerns

One of the most frequently discussed potential downsides of sparkling water, including LaCroix, is its effect on dental enamel.

The Role of Carbonic Acid

When carbon dioxide is infused into water, it creates a weak carbonic acid.
This acid lowers the water's pH, making it more acidic than plain water.
Over time, and with frequent, excessive consumption, this acidity can potentially erode tooth enamel, the protective outer layer of your teeth.

It's crucial to put this risk in perspective. Research indicates that plain sparkling water is far less damaging to enamel than sugary sodas or fruit juices. To mitigate this risk, dentists suggest drinking sparkling water with meals, consuming it in moderation, or rinsing your mouth with plain water afterward. The dental risks are significantly lower than with conventional sodas.

Digestive Health and Bloating

For some individuals, the carbonation in LaCroix can lead to minor digestive discomfort.

Common Digestive Effects

Bloating and Gas: The bubbles from the dissolved carbon dioxide can cause a buildup of gas in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to bloating, belching, and flatulence for sensitive individuals.
GERD: Those with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) might find that carbonated beverages trigger or worsen heartburn symptoms.
Possible Benefits: On the other hand, some studies suggest that carbonated water may improve digestion and alleviate constipation.

For most people, these effects are temporary and mild. However, if you have a sensitive stomach or a known digestive condition, it is wise to monitor your consumption and consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist.

LaCroix vs. Other Popular Beverages

To truly assess the healthfulness of LaCroix, it's helpful to compare it with other common drinks.

Comparison Table: LaCroix vs. Common Beverages


Beverage	Calories (per 12oz)	Sugar (g)	Sodium (mg)	Artificial Ingredients	Health Implications
LaCroix	0	0	0	No	Hydrating, better than soda, potential dental/digestive risks in excess.
Soda (e.g., Cola)	140-180+	39-45+	30-50	Yes (caramel color, etc.)	High sugar/calorie intake, dental decay, obesity, diabetes risk.
Diet Soda	0	0	Varies	Yes (Artificial Sweeteners)	No sugar/calories, potential long-term health debates regarding artificial sweeteners.
Seltzer/Club Soda	0	0	Varies (often higher)	Varies (minerals added)	Similar to LaCroix but can have added sodium; check labels.
Fruit Juice	150-180+	30-40+	~10	No	High in natural sugars, fewer vitamins than whole fruit, higher calories.
Plain Water	0	0	0	No	Best for hydration with zero risks. Contains fluoride in many tap sources.

Potential Weight Management Benefits

Replacing sugary beverages with a zero-calorie option like LaCroix can play a positive role in weight management. The effervescence may also contribute to a feeling of fullness, which could help reduce overall calorie intake. It is important to note, however, that LaCroix is not a miracle weight-loss solution but rather a supportive tool as part of a balanced diet and active lifestyle.

Other Considerations and Recommendations

Listen to Your Body: If you experience bloating, gas, or acid reflux, reducing or eliminating your sparkling water intake might be necessary.
Moderation is Key: Enjoying LaCroix in moderation alongside plain water is the best approach. Experts suggest one to two servings of unflavored sparkling water daily for many individuals.
Hydration: LaCroix counts towards your daily fluid intake and can be a great way to stay hydrated if you dislike plain water.
Environmental Impact: While LaCroix is often sold in recyclable aluminum cans, drinking filtered tap water is typically more environmentally friendly.

Conclusion: So, Is LaCroix Flavored Water Healthy?

Overall, LaCroix is a significantly healthier choice than sugary sodas, fruit juices, and diet drinks laden with artificial sweeteners. Its simplicity—carbonated water with natural fruit essences—makes it an excellent zero-calorie, sugar-free alternative for staying hydrated. While potential minor side effects like dental enamel erosion and digestive discomfort exist with excessive consumption, these risks are generally manageable and far less severe than those associated with other carbonated beverages. For most people, LaCroix can be a healthy and refreshing addition to their beverage routine when consumed in moderation alongside plenty of plain water. Further Reading: The Science Behind the LaCroix and Linalool Controversy.

Frequently Asked Questions

For most people, drinking LaCroix every day is safe when done in moderation and in conjunction with drinking plain water. Excessive, daily consumption could potentially increase the risk of minor dental enamel erosion and digestive issues for sensitive individuals.

No, LaCroix does not contain any artificial sweeteners. The company states its products are free of added sweeteners and artificial ingredients, deriving their flavor from natural fruit essences.

No, LaCroix itself cannot cause weight gain as it contains zero calories and zero sugar. It is a much healthier alternative to sugary drinks and can support weight management efforts by helping to reduce overall calorie intake.

The 'natural essence' is a complex mixture of compounds derived from the oils of fruits. While proprietary, third-party lab testing has confirmed these flavors come from natural sources, not synthetic ones.

Yes, research shows that sparkling water, including LaCroix, is equally as hydrating as still water. It counts towards your daily fluid intake goals.

Due to the weak carbonic acid created by the carbonation, frequent and excessive consumption of LaCroix could potentially contribute to minor tooth enamel erosion over time. However, it is significantly less harmful than soda and can be mitigated by drinking in moderation and rinsing with plain water.

Yes, LaCroix is considered a better option than most diet sodas. While both are zero-calorie, diet sodas contain artificial sweeteners and other chemicals, which are often debated for their long-term health effects. LaCroix’s simple, natural ingredients are a clearer, safer choice.

Healthier alternatives include drinking plain tap water, infusing your own water with fresh fruits and herbs, or opting for other sparkling water brands made with real fruit juice like Spindrift.