The surprising link between sparkling water and weight loss
Still or sparkling? It’s the ultimate water debate. But could fizzy water be doing more than just quenching your thirst? Research hints at some *surprising* health perks hiding in those bubbles – since a new study, published in the BMJ Nutrition Prevention & Health journal, suggests that sparkling water could help to boost metabolism and aid weight loss.
But how much of a health difference does sparkling water really make? Here’s what we know so far.
The research
Led by Dr Akira Takahashi from the dialysis centre at Japan’s Tesseikai Neurosurgery Hospital, the study examined how carbonated water impacts blood glucose uptake and metabolism.
The researchers compared the impact of carbon dioxide (CO2) in fizzy water on the blood to the haemodialysis process (a common type of dialysis, where blood is filtered by a machine to remove waste and excess water when the kidneys no longer can), where blood alkalinisation aids glucose processing.
The results
Their findings suggest that sparkling water may slightly boost the uptake and use of blood glucose, indirectly supporting weight loss.
Clinical observations from haemodialysis provided insights into this process, but the overall impact was found to be too small to make a significant difference.
‘CO2 in carbonated water may promote weight loss by enhancing glucose uptake and metabolism in red blood cells. However, the amount is so small that it is difficult to expect weight loss effects solely from the CO2 in carbonated water,’ wrote Dr Takahashi.
What this means for us
While sparkling water might offer a slight metabolic boost, it’s clearly no substitute for eating a healthy, balanced diet and regularly exercising. Especially since researchers say the effect of sparking water on weight loss is minimal.
‘The impact of CO2 in carbonated water is not a standalone solution for weight loss. A balanced diet and regular physical activity remain crucial components of sustainable weight management,’ said Dr Takahashi.
Also – worth remembering – as per NHS guidance, overindulging in fizzy water could lead to bloating, wind or worsen conditions like IBS. So it’s a good idea to reduce your intake of fizzy drinks if you’re susceptible to these gut health conditions.
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