Does Carbonated Water Hydrate As Well As Plain Water? | Marla Ahlgrimm

We all know that water is life, but not everybody likes the taste of plain old tap water. And with the creation of carbonated water or, even better, home carbonation systems, we can choose to dress up our drinks anyway we want. But is carbonated water as good for you as regular water? Marla Ahlgrimm says yes.

Women Need Water

Women, especially those of us at or past the age of 45, need to maintain healthy hydration levels. Marla Ahlgrimm says this not only supports metabolic and organ function but also helps keep our skin smooth and healthy. Drinking enough water can also aid in hormone balance, reduce bloating, prevent constipation, and increase satiety.

Hydration (Not Carbonation) Matters

If you don’t like the taste of plain water, never fear. Drinking carbonated water increases hydration the same as still water. The only difference is that there is carbon dioxide gas dissolved in the water. This doesn’t alter the water itself, but Marla Ahlgrimm says it can make it more drinkable, especially if you add a sugar-free fruity flavor.

Minerals (Might) Matter

While plain sparkling water doesn’t change hydration, water with minerals might. Marla Ahlgrimm says that some sparkling waters contain magnesium, calcium, and sodium. These vital electrolytes can help the body retain moisture, but the difference is minimal. At the end of the day, Marla Ahlgrimm says it’s the water itself that contributes to hydration.

Carbonation Doesn’t Equal Dehydration

There is a common misconception that carbonated water can dehydrate you. Marla Ahlgrimm says that despite the bubbliness and slight acidity, this is not true. She explains that the body absorbs carbonated water the same way it absorbs still water and that it does not increase urine output, unlike caffeine and alcohol.

Fuller Faster?

Marla Ahlgrimm explains that carbonated water does have one significant difference from plain old tap water. She says that carbonated water may make some women feel fuller faster, which could lead to drinking less water overall. She also cautions that some flavored or sweetened sparkling waters may contain sugar, sodium, or citric acid.

Drink Up

Women who are looking to maintain their hydration should consume around 91 ounces of water per day. Thankfully, this does not come just from drinking water but also from the food we eat. Six to eight cups of water per day, plus a few cups of coffee, milk, or tea, along with water-rich fruits and vegetables, can help us stay hydrated. Marla Ahlgrimm recommends drinking water throughout the day and carrying a water bottle to remind yourself to sip consistently.

Water is a non-negotiable part of the human experience, says Marla Ahlgrimm. But if you don’t like the way plain water tastes, she says there’s nothing wrong with dressing it up a bit!