Often seen as an alternative to soda, sparkling water is quite common on Brazilian tables. The air bubbles in the liquid tease our tongue, teasing our taste buds. It's a unique experience.
Despite this, many people still have doubts about whether the drink is, in fact, healthy. Although it is really water, can the gas contained in the drink cause any harm? Does it have calories? Does it damage teeth? These and other questions will be answered in this article.
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Continue reading and find out about the sparkling water!
Let's start by clarifying that there are two types of sparkling water: natural and artificially carbonated.
As its name suggests, naturally carbonated water is found in sources close to regions where there is underground heating.
The heat produced is strong enough to break down the molecules of minerals found in water, thus forming gases. This is a product that contains salt and sulfur in an organic way.
On the other hand, artificially carbonated water — the most common to find on supermarket shelves — goes through the process of adding CO2 to the liquid. It's simple and, today, there are products that help you do this at home.
Is sparkling water bad for the stomach?
More or less. In small amounts, no. But, like any carbonated liquid, it can inflame the lining of the stomach and esophagus if in excess. And if you have reflux, sparkling water can make it worse.
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Help with digestion?
This is a common myth. In fact, the excess of carbon dioxide in the water causes the stomach to dilate, this swelling only causes irritation to the gastric mucosa.
To improve digestion, still water with lemonjuice or chamomile tea half an hour after a meal.
Fattening?
Sparkling water has the same nutritional value as regular water, no more and no less. In other words, don't get fat. She is even an excellent ally of those who don't like drinking water and helps with the hydration process, which therefore helps with weight loss.
However, it is not indicated that people consume their daily two liters of water drinking only the carbonated version of the liquid. This causes inflammation in the lining of the stomach, as we mentioned earlier.
Does sparkling water corrode your teeth?
More or less. Let's explain. Drinks with a lower pH, such as sparkling water, do not erode teeth as you might think. However, it makes them more susceptible to cavities and other oral problems.
Furthermore, the CO2 in sparkling water is converted into carbonic acid and, if mixed with saliva, lowers the pH of the mouth. This, in fact, can lead to a process of demineralization and remineralization of the teeth, increasing tooth sensitivity.
Ideally, people should not drink sparkling water in excess or use it to rinse their mouth.
Does it “clean” the palate?
You just think so, but really, no. It is customary to take a sip of sparkling water before eating wineor coffee to “cleanse” the palate. But, the liquid only gives the perception of astringency. In this way, the other drinks appear “soft”.
Graduated in Social Communication at the Federal University of Goiás. Passionate about digital media, pop culture, technology, politics and psychoanalysis.
