Is sparkling water good for you? The fizz, the facts and your teeth

There are two kinds of people in this world. Still people, and sparkling people.

If you're the second kind, you've probably been told at some point that fizzy water "doesn't count", or that it's secretly wrecking your teeth. Let's sort fact from fizz.

Does sparkling water hydrate you as well as still?

Yes. Sparkling water is just water with carbon dioxide dissolved into it. Same water, more bubbles, and it counts towards your daily fluid just like still. The NHS even suggests sparkling water if you don't like the taste of plain water.

If the fizz is what gets you drinking, it's doing you a favour. The best water is the one you actually drink.

The honest bit: your teeth

When carbon dioxide dissolves in water it turns slightly acidic, and the NHS notes that fizzy drinks can wear teeth whatever they're sweetened with. Plain sparkling water is far gentler than fizzy soft drinks, but it isn't quite as kind as still.

So have it with meals when you can, when your mouth is making more saliva. Don't sip it from sunrise to bedtime. And skip the sugar, because sugar plus acid is the combo dentists really don't love.

Can sparkling water make you bloated?

For some people, yes. All those bubbles have to go somewhere. If fizz leaves you bloated or gassy, swap some glasses for still. The NHS suggests cutting down on fizzy drinks if you have IBS.

One more label check while you're there: some sparkling mineral waters contain natural sodium. Plain soda water and carbonated tap water usually have very little.

Turn your fizz into a proper drink

Sparkling water is great. Sparkling water that tastes of real cherry and lime? That's a drink you'd order.

Every Spruce sachet works with still or sparkling water. Here's the trick to keeping it lively:

1. Step oneTear and tipOne sachet into a tall glass.
2. Step twoSplash and stirA little still water first, so it dissolves properly.
3. Step threeTop with fizzFill with cold sparkling water just before you drink, so it stays bubbly.
4. Step fourMake it prettyIce, a lime wedge, a sprig of mint. Thank us later.

Three to try

Same water, more bubbles, better glass.

Sparkling water FAQs

Is sparkling water as good as still water?

For hydration, yes. It counts towards your daily fluid just the same. Still water is a little kinder to your teeth, so a mix of both is ideal.

Is it OK to drink sparkling water every day?

For most people, yes. Plain sparkling water has no sugar or calories. Have it with meals when you can, and keep some still water in your day too.

Can I add a Spruce sachet to sparkling water?

Yes. Tip the sachet into the glass with a splash of still water, stir, then top up with cold sparkling water so it stays fizzy.

Is soda water the same as sparkling water?

Pretty much. Soda water sometimes has a few added minerals for taste. Tonic water is different: it usually contains sugar or sweeteners, so check the label.

General information, not medical advice. If you have a dental or digestive condition, follow your dentist's or doctor's advice.