Health Effects of Carbonated Water

Carbonated water is often referred to as fizzy water because of its gas bubble formations. It is also known as seltzer or sparkling water. Gas bubbles in carbonated water are created by adding carbon dioxide to plain water. Soft drinks use carbonated water as one of their major ingredients. Many health effects, both positive and detrimental, are associated with carbonated water . Add this to my Recipe Box.

Increases Risk of Esophageal Cancer

Carbonated water causes burping, which may lead to esophageal cancer.

Carbonated water, or any other carbonated beverage, can cause burping. Burping sends stomach acid to the esophagus, possibly forming cancerous lesions over time. While studies have not conclusively stated this risk as fact, people should take preventative measures and sip their drinks rather than gulp them to minimize risk of burping.

Causes Acid Reflux

Carbonated water can promote acid reflux disease.

Not only does carbonated water put someone at risk for esophageal cancer, it also makes them vulnerable to acid reflux disease. From excess consumption and burping caused by carbonated water, stomach acid may rise above the valve of the esophagus. This acid dissolves tissue in the stomach, damaging the lower esophagus.

Prevents Osteoporosis

Carbonated water prevents calcium loss in bones that could lead to osteoporosis.

Carbonated water does not contain phosphoric acid, which strips bones of calcium and causes blood acidity. Carbonated water has one ingredient that soft drinks lack: bicarbonate. Bicarbonate minimizes calcium loss from the bones. Since blood acidity is not excessive when consuming carbonated water due to bicarbonate, more calcium stays in the bones.