The whole truth about whether carbonated water is bad for your health

Surely on some occasion, sitting at the table, you have witnessed this scene: someone comes up with asking for carbonated water and another diner begs (sometimes even threatens) not to do such a thing. This soda drink It has undoubtedly faithful defenders among its ranks, but it also has a lot of detractors who do not understand why you do not prefer the tap, which is also free in many restaurants.

With the beginning of the year it is quite common to make a list with the purposes that we will fulfill (or not) throughout the months. Among all is usually that of being healthier, whether consuming more vegetables or less sugar, exercising more or even drinking more water. It is normal, because after all, the human being is 80% of it.

Now, not everyone is passionate about putting drink this colorless and odorless liquid as if they were going to ban it. It is then when perhaps his carbonated versionWell, it's a good substitute that is probably as good a choice as the normal one, isn't it? If you had any doubts about it now you can clarify them.

How is it done?

Sparkling water gets ready adding carbonic acid and carbon dioxide in a exothermic reaction in tanks of storage under pressure so that there is no depressurization and dissociation of minerals. From this process, calcium carbonate leaves as residue. That sensation in the mouth after taking it is, in fact, the chemical activation of the pain receptors in the tongue that respond to this acid, which gives it a milder taste. And here the problem begins.

The acid in the drink can damage our teeth, according to 'The Conversation'. Its outer layer, tooth enamel, is the hardest tissue in the body. Is made of a mineral called hydroxyapatite It contains calcium and phosphate. Saliva is mainly water, but it also contains calcium and phosphate. Normally there is a balance between the minerals in the teeth and those in the saliva, but carbonic acid in soft drinks could change it.

An excessive intake of carbonated water can take its toll on the enamel of your teeth, which can wear out or erode

Demineralization creates small pores in the tooth mineral and, when this happens, the enamel begins to dissolve. At first these pores are microscopic and can be covered by replacing calcium, phosphate or floride (found in toothpaste and used to protect them), but once the amount of lost dental mineral reaches a certain level, the pores can no longer plug and the dental tissue It is lost forever. If the teeth are frequently 'bathed' in the acid contained in carbonated beverages, more minerals can be dissolved than could be replaced or covered, so there would be a greater risk of wear or erosion.

Mineral water

It is likely that you have read on more than one occasion that carbonated water It is recommended if you want to lose weight. The reason claimed by those who defend it is that its intake does not provide calories, but it does give more satiety when adding gas to the stomach. However, the Professor of Nutrition at the University of Dundee, Suzanne Zaremba, he warns that there is no solid scientific evidence to suggest that drinking sparkling water makes you feel fuller or decreases your appetite.

"It's true that drinking carbonated water can fill your stomach and it will make you burp, but it will not stay longer than the one that has no gas, "he says. There is also no difference if the drink is ingested with food and meals." Scientifically it is difficult to measure hunger and satiety, the studies that have drawn conclusions they are based largely on the personal feelings of each one, "he adds. It is advised to drink in general between six and eight glasses of liquid per day, which do not always have to be water because other healthy options such as tea, coffee or milk can also be included.

There is no scientific evidence that carbonated water decreases appetite or serves to lose weight, but it will always be better than sugary sodas

"Water is a healthy and cheap option to quench thirst at any time," adds the teacher. "It has no calories, is free and does not contain sugars that can damage your teeth, unlike sports and energy drinks that flood the shelves of supermarkets. But, of course, if you usually drink a lot of sugary sodas and intend to change this option for carbonated water, because you consider it healthier, you're right. It is a step in the right direction. It is estimated that sodas are 25% of the sugar intake in adults and increase oral acidity, in addition, most carbonated waters do not have added sugars, but just in case, it is best to read the label, "highlights .

In other words: if you are trying to increase fluid intake, water should still be your first choice. But if a glass of water is definitely not your thing, the one with gas can help keep you hydrated and be a tastier alternative, although perhaps you should be a little careful in how often you consume it, for the sake of your dental health.