Weight loss linked to common drink that can boost metabolism - and it's not tea
Everyone knows that eating healthy and being active is the killer combination to help shave on the pounds. And as much as we all know this to be true, we can't help trying out the new tricks and hacks on social media that will help quicken the process.
While there is no quick fix to slimming down and keeping the weight off, one drink has been revealed to help in the process as it can help boost blood glucose uptake and metabolism - the rate the body uses energy and converts it. However, it should be warned that its effects are small and cannot be relied on alone.
It may not be everyone's preferred choice, but it has been revealed that fizzy water may be able to help people lose weight. New research has looked into how fizzy water is able to reduce blood glucose and how this could also contribute to slimming down.
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This is because fizzy water is known to be 'filling', therefore it could help to curb hunger pains. Additionally, it can reportedly speed up digestion and lower blood glucose levels. However, it should not be drunk excessively as the long-term effect of drinking large amounts of carbonated water isn't known.
In the study, published in BMJ Nutrition Prevention & Health, drinking carbonated water was compared to haemodialysis - which is when blood is filtered (dialysed) to remove waste and excess water when the kidneys no longer can.
This process turns the blood alkaline which means it will primarily produce carbon dioxide (CO2). In clinical observations of this process, it was seen that blood glucose levels fall as blood passes through the dialyser.
Similarly, the CO2 of fizzy water is absorbed through the stomach lining while drinking, and is then rapidly converted to bicarbonate (HCO3) in red blood cells. This alkalisation process speeds up glucose absorption and is used by activating key enzymes in the red blood cells.
While the findings suggest that fizzy water may indirectly promote weight loss by enhancing the uptake and use of blood glucose, it is not a quick fix solution.
Author of the study Akira Takahashi said: "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.
"Also, drinking carbonated water can have some effects on the digestive system, particularly for individuals with sensitive stomachs or pre-existing gastrointestinal conditions. The primary concerns include bloating, gas and, in some cases, exacerbation of certain symptoms associated with digestive disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome or gastro-oesophageal reflux disease."
He added: "Moderation is key to avoiding discomfort while still enjoying the possible metabolic benefits of carbonated water."
Commenting on the analysis, Professor Sumantra Ray, said: "While there is a hypothetical link between carbonated water and glucose metabolism this has yet to be tested in well designed human intervention studies.
"And although this study adds to the evidence base, it doesn’t provide sufficient evidence on which to make recommendations for the preventive or therapeutic use of carbonated water. Additionally, any potential benefits must be weighed up against the potential harms of carbonated drinks which may contain sodium, glucose, or other additives."
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