What happens if I drink sparkling water every day? Your Guide to Daily Fizz

October 18, 2025 •

3 min read

The sparkling water market has seen immense growth as consumers seek fizzy, low-calorie alternatives to sugary sodas. But for those making it a daily habit, the question remains: what happens if I drink sparkling water every day? This guide provides an in-depth look at the daily health implications of your bubbly beverage choice.

Quick Summary

This article explores the daily health effects of drinking sparkling water, covering benefits like hydration and digestion aid, alongside potential downsides such as dental erosion and bloating for some individuals.

Key Points

Hydration Equivalent: Plain sparkling water is just as hydrating as still water and a great alternative for those who find plain water unappealing.
Dental Risks: Flavored sparkling waters, especially those with citric acid, can pose a risk of enamel erosion over time. Plain, unflavored options are safer.
Digestive Comfort: While some may find it aids digestion, the carbonation can cause bloating, gas, or exacerbate symptoms for those with sensitive stomachs or IBS.
Debunking Myths: The idea that sparkling water harms bone health is a myth, likely confused with phosphoric acid in dark colas.
Superior Soda Substitute: Unsweetened sparkling water is a significantly healthier alternative to sugary soft drinks, helping reduce calorie and sugar intake.
Managing Side Effects: Using a straw, drinking with meals, and rinsing your mouth can mitigate dental risks. Reducing intake is key for managing digestive discomfort.

Your Daily Dose of Fizz: Benefits and Potential Drawbacks

Drinking plain sparkling water offers a refreshing, calorie-free alternative to sugary drinks, which can help many people increase their overall fluid intake. From a hydration standpoint, it is just as effective as still water, as it is simply water infused with carbon dioxide. This can be particularly beneficial for those who dislike the taste of plain water and need a more appealing way to meet their daily hydration goals.

The Impact on Dental Health

One of the most frequent concerns regarding daily sparkling water consumption is its effect on tooth enamel. The carbonation process creates carbonic acid, which makes the water slightly acidic. While plain sparkling water is minimally erosive, the risk increases significantly with flavored varieties that contain citric acid or added sugars. For context, soft drinks and fruit juices are far more corrosive to enamel than plain sparkling water. To minimize dental risks, follow these tips:

Use a straw to limit contact with teeth.
Drink it quickly rather than sipping throughout the day.
Rinse your mouth with plain water after finishing.
Choose plain, unflavored sparkling water over those with added citric acid.
Wait at least 30 minutes to brush your teeth after consuming to avoid brushing softened enamel.

Digestive Effects: The Good and the Gassy

The digestive impact of sparkling water can vary dramatically from person to person. For some, it can be a digestive aid. Research suggests the carbonation can help improve swallowing ability and extend feelings of fullness, which may assist with weight management. It may also help relieve constipation for some individuals.

Conversely, for people with sensitive stomachs, the gas from carbonation can cause bloating, belching, and gas. Those with conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) might find that sparkling water exacerbates their symptoms. If you notice increased discomfort, it's wise to reduce your intake or switch to still water.

Bone Health and Weight Concerns

Contrary to a persistent myth, drinking sparkling water does not harm bone health. The myth likely stems from studies linking cola drinks, which contain phosphoric acid, to lower bone mineral density. Sparkling water, being free of phosphoric acid, has no such effect. In fact, some mineral-rich varieties may even offer bone-boosting benefits due to their calcium and magnesium content.

Regarding weight, plain sparkling water is calorie-free and can be an excellent tool for reducing calorie intake by replacing sugary beverages. However, some smaller studies suggest carbonation might increase levels of the hunger hormone ghrelin in some individuals, though more research is needed. Overall, for most people, the calorie-saving benefit of swapping soda for sparkling water outweighs any minor hunger effect.

Sparkling Water vs. Still Water vs. Sugary Soda


Feature	Plain Sparkling Water	Still Water	Sugary Soda
Hydration	Equivalent to still water	Excellent, standard hydration	Dehydrating due to sugar
Calories	Zero	Zero	High
Sugar	None	None	Very High
Dental Risk	Minimal (with precautions)	None	Very High (Acid + Sugar)
Bloating Potential	Possible for sensitive individuals	None	Possible, often with high fructose corn syrup
Bone Health	Safe, some mineral benefits	Safe	Associated with lower bone density

Environmental and Economic Considerations

Daily consumption also raises environmental and economic questions. Purchasing bottled sparkling water contributes to plastic waste, while making it at home with a carbonation machine is a more eco-friendly and cost-effective option.

Conclusion

Drinking plain sparkling water every day is generally safe and a healthy choice for most individuals, offering an effective way to stay hydrated without the calories or sugar of soft drinks. While potential downsides exist, like dental erosion from flavored options or digestive discomfort for those with sensitivities, these can often be managed with moderation and good habits. As a satisfying, bubbly alternative to sugary beverages, sparkling water is a winner. For those still concerned, mixing your daily intake between still and sparkling water is a great way to enjoy the fizz while keeping potential risks at bay. For further reading on the safety of carbonated water, an excellent resource is available on Healthline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, research confirms that sparkling water is just as hydrating as regular still water. The carbonation does not affect your body's ability to absorb the water.

Plain, unflavored sparkling water is minimally erosive to tooth enamel. The primary risk comes from flavored versions with added acids (like citric acid) and sugars. Using a straw and rinsing your mouth can help protect your teeth.

For some individuals, especially those with sensitive stomachs or gastrointestinal conditions like IBS, the carbonation can cause bloating, gas, and belching.

No, drinking sparkling water does not negatively affect bone density. The myth is based on confusion with dark colas, which contain phosphoric acid, an ingredient not found in sparkling water.

It depends on the ingredients. Always check the label. Many flavored sparkling waters use natural essences, but some contain added sugar, citric acid, or artificial sweeteners, which can impact your health.

Individuals with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) may experience worsened symptoms like bloating or heartburn due to the carbonation. It's often best to limit or avoid it if you notice a negative reaction.

Plain sparkling water is the healthier option, with minimal impact on dental health. Flavored varieties should be consumed with more caution due to the added acidity from flavorings, which can accelerate dental erosion.