Is LaCroix Lime Healthy? A Closer Look at the Bubbly Beverage

November 2, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the CDC, sparkling water is a healthy alternative to soda and other high-calorie beverages. But does this hold true for popular brands like LaCroix, specifically the lime flavor? We'll dive into what makes LaCroix lime a favorite and address common health concerns to help you make an informed decision.

Quick Summary

This article examines the health aspects of LaCroix lime, detailing its zero-calorie, zero-sweetener composition and discussing potential risks like dental erosion from its acidity. It compares LaCroix with other beverages and explores the debate around 'natural flavors' and carbonation's impact on digestion and hydration.

Key Points

Zero Calorie and Sugar-Free: LaCroix lime contains no calories, sugar, or artificial sweeteners, making it a great alternative to sugary sodas.
Dental Enamel Erosion: The carbonation and natural citrus flavors increase acidity, which can contribute to tooth enamel erosion with frequent, prolonged consumption.
Hydration Power: LaCroix is just as hydrating as plain water and can help you meet your daily fluid intake goals.
'Natural Flavor' Transparency: The specific components of LaCroix's 'natural flavors' are not publicly disclosed, which can be a concern for some consumers.
Better Than Soda: Compared to sugary and diet sodas, LaCroix is a healthier option for hydration and weight management.
Moderation is Key: Enjoying LaCroix in moderation and using a straw can minimize potential dental health risks.

Is LaCroix Lime a Healthy Beverage?

LaCroix lime is a zero-calorie, zero-sweetener sparkling water made with just two ingredients: carbonated water and natural flavor. For many, this makes it an appealing alternative to sugary sodas and diet drinks. Its simplicity and refreshing taste have contributed to its widespread popularity among health-conscious consumers. However, some health concerns exist regarding the effects of carbonation and 'natural flavors.' In this article, we'll break down the pros and cons of LaCroix lime and help you determine if it aligns with your health goals.

The Nutritional Profile: What's Inside a Can of LaCroix Lime?

One of the main reasons LaCroix is considered a healthier choice is its minimal nutritional profile. Each 12-ounce can contains:

Calories: 0
Sweeteners: 0
Sodium: 0 mg
Carbohydrates: 0 g
Fat: 0 g

This simple composition means it hydrates you just as effectively as regular water, without the added calories or artificial ingredients found in many other flavored drinks. For those looking to manage weight or reduce sugar intake, LaCroix lime can be a useful tool to help satisfy cravings for a flavorful, fizzy drink without derailing dietary efforts.

The Dental Dilemma: Acidity and Enamel Erosion

While LaCroix contains no sugar, the carbonation process creates carbonic acid, which makes the water slightly more acidic than still water. The addition of citrus 'natural flavors,' like lime, can further increase this acidity. Over time, frequent consumption of acidic beverages can lead to tooth enamel erosion, a concern for dental health professionals.

To mitigate the dental risk:

Use a straw: This directs the liquid past your front teeth, minimizing contact with the enamel.
Drink with meals: Drinking sparkling water during meals, when saliva production is higher, can help neutralize the acid.
Avoid sipping all day: Continuous exposure to acid is more damaging. It's better to drink your LaCroix in one sitting.
Rinse with plain water: A quick rinse with still water after finishing your sparkling water can help wash away residual acid.

The 'Natural Flavor' Controversy

LaCroix's use of 'natural flavors' has been a source of consumer inquiry and controversy. The company states these flavors are derived from the natural essence oils of the named fruit. However, the FDA's definition of 'natural flavor' is broad, and companies are not required to disclose the specific components. This lack of transparency has led to speculation about what exactly constitutes the flavor essence. Despite these questions, LaCroix has maintained that its ingredients are derived from natural sources and contain no artificial ingredients.

LaCroix Lime vs. Other Beverages: A Comparative Table


Feature	LaCroix Lime Sparkling Water	Sugary Soda (e.g., Cola)	Still Water	Diet Soda	Fruit Juice
Calories	0	~140+	0	0	~120+
Added Sugars	0	High	0	0	0
Artificial Sweeteners	0	0	0	Yes	0
Dental Acidity (Risk)	Minimally Erosive	Extremely Erosive	Neutral pH	Erosive	Erosive
Hydration	Yes, comparable to still water	Low (may cause dehydration)	Excellent	Yes, but concerns about sweeteners	Low (high sugar content)
Effect on Weight	Helps manage by reducing calorie intake	Contributes to weight gain	Neutral	Mixed results; can increase calorie intake	Contributes to weight gain (sugar)

The Bottom Line: Moderation is Key

So, is LaCroix lime healthy? For most people, it's a very healthy choice, especially as a replacement for sugary drinks. Its zero-calorie, zero-sweetener profile and hydrating properties make it a much better option than soda. However, it's not without its nuances.

Dental Health: The slight acidity, especially from the citrus flavor, requires mindful consumption to protect tooth enamel. The tips mentioned earlier can help minimize this risk.
'Natural Flavors': For those who prefer to know every single ingredient, the non-disclosure of the exact flavor components may be a concern. If this is a priority, consider adding your own fresh lime to plain carbonated water.

In conclusion, LaCroix lime is a beneficial beverage when enjoyed in moderation. It can be a great ally for staying hydrated and cutting down on sugar. As with any food or drink, the context of your overall diet and lifestyle is what truly determines its healthfulness. For a sparkling, refreshing treat without the guilt of soda, LaCroix lime is a solid choice. Just be mindful of your dental health and listen to your body.

This article is intended for informational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized health recommendations.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, LaCroix lime does not contain artificial sweeteners, calories, or sodium. According to the company, its flavors are derived from the natural essence oils of the named fruit.

No, studies have shown that carbonated water does not negatively impact bone density. The misconception often stems from older studies linking cola beverages (which contain phosphoric acid) to lower bone density.

Yes, due to the carbonic acid and added citrus flavor, LaCroix lime is slightly acidic and can minimally erode tooth enamel with excessive, frequent consumption. Drinking with meals or using a straw can help mitigate this.

Yes, LaCroix is just as hydrating as still water and can be a great way to meet your daily hydration needs, especially if you find plain water unappealing.

The specific components of the 'natural flavors' are not disclosed by the company. The FDA's rules allow companies to label flavorings as 'natural' if they are derived from a plant or animal source, but they don't require full ingredient transparency for these additives.

Yes, LaCroix is an excellent and healthier alternative to sugary sodas. It provides a similar fizzy sensation without the added sugars, calories, and artificial ingredients.

For some individuals, the carbonation in sparkling water can cause bloating, gas, or a feeling of fullness. This is a common side effect and not necessarily a sign of an underlying health problem.