If you’re trying to cut down on soda that’s high in sugar, but a regular glass of tap or mineral water doesn’t satisfy your thirst in the same way, then sparkling water could be a happy medium. You still get the fizz but without all the sugar. But sparkling water isn’t to everyone’s tastes.
You may notice that, even after it’s lost its fizz, sparkling water has a different taste to non-sparkling water. Even if you take an ordinary glass of tap water and use a machine to carbonate it yourself, it still has that taste. Read on to find out more about this mysterious flavor of sparkling water and whether or not it’s a healthy way to quench your thirst.
How is sparkling water made?
Sparkling water is made through a process called carbonation. This means that carbon dioxide gas is added to the water, or any liquid, under pressure. This can either happen naturally or can be performed manually. As mentioned earlier, you can even buy a soda machine that allows you to carbonate your own beverages at home.
The carbon dioxide reacts with the water and produces carbonic acid. This is why you’ll find that sparkling water or soda water has a slightly bitter taste. It’s the carbonic acid you are tasting. For some people, this slightly bitter taste is pleasant, while others find it unappetizing. Sparkling mineral water may also have a slightly different taste because of the presence of different minerals in the water.
Is sparkling water good for you?
So, does the carbon dioxide or carbonic acid have any negative effects on your health or is it a good alternative to soda and other sugary drinks? Evidence shows that the carbonic acid may have a slight effect on the health of your teeth, but this effect was only slightly worse than regular water and still a lot better for your teeth than sugary sodas.
It seems to be gentle on your stomach, too. The acid produced in carbonated water is much less acidic than the acid found in your stomach, so it is a mild enough acid for your body and organs to handle. The gas dissolved in the liquid may cause slight bloating, but this is the same for any kind of sparkling drink. This can even help you feel fuller if you are trying to control the amount of food you eat.
In total, if you like the taste and sensation of sparkling water, then it can be a good alternative when consumed in moderation, providing you with a drink that’s healthier than soda and has a little more taste than regular water.
If you always want to have fresh spring water around your home or office, then a bottled water delivery service from Mountain Park Spring Water is a great option. Get in touch to find out more about our delivery service and water dispensers to rent or buy.