“Sparkling or still?”, a question that used to be reserved for restaurant settings, is now a common staple of offices, schools, gyms, and even the home.
Thanks to combination water dispensers and carbonators, fizzy water is more accessible than ever before, but is there any downside to swapping still for sparkling?
In this article, we’ll explore how sparkling and still water stack up in terms of hydration. Whether you're a fan of fizz or prefer it plain, comparing the two can help you make an informed choice about your hydration habits.
Sparkling water vs still water - what’s the difference?
As you might expect, plain sparkling water is primarily just water. The bubbles are produced by carbon dioxide (CO2), which is the only other ingredient.
Carbonation of water can be natural. This occurs when volcanic gasses reach and dissolve into natural water sources.
Water can also be carbonated artificially by way of CO2 injections.
Carbon dioxide lowers the pH of water a touch, meaning sparkling water is ever so slightly acidic, while still water is or is extremely near to neutral.
This dip into acidic territory isn’t dramatic enough to cause any serious dental issues, but does it affect the hydrating abilities of sparkling water? Science says no!
Does sparkling water hydrate you?
Good news for those who enjoy a bubbly beverage; sparkling water is a great hydrator.
The only difference between plain sparkling water and still water is carbonation, and research has proven that a bit of fizz has no negative impact on hydration.
One study carried out at Loughborough University observed the hydration potential of several different drinks - one of which was sparkling water - and compared their affects to still water.
The goal was to find the Beverage Hydration Index (BHI) of each drink. Simply put, BHI tells you how long a liquid stays in your system. The longer the body retains a liquid, the more hydrating it is.
Pure water has a BHI of 1.0 and is used as the standard for comparison.
The results showed that, while it isn’t absorbed quite as quickly into the body, sparkling water also has a BHI of 1.0 and is just as effective as still water for hydration.
Is sparkling water better for you than still water?
While sparkling water isn’t strictly a healthier option, research shows that it can be a great help for those who suffer with digestive issues.
One 15-day study monitored the symptoms of 21 people with chronic digestive issues, such as constipation and dyspepsia. Some were asked to drink carbonated water regularly, while others were not. By the end of the study, the symptoms of participants who had been drinking fizzy water had significantly improved.
But that’s not the only way sparkling water can improve health and wellbeing.
Many get taste fatigue when drinking still water, which can prevent them drinking enough to properly hydrate. Sparkling water offers a different drinking experience that is often more appealing to those who get bored with still water.
For these people, the fizz of sparkling water makes it more enjoyable to drink, helping them to drink far more fluid than they would if only still water were available.
Sparkling water can also be more appealing to those who enjoy sugary fizzy drinks, helping them to adjust their hydration habits and lead healthier lifestyles.
However, while it’s great for some, sparkling water isn’t right for everyone.
When is still water the right choice?
Sparkling water can indirectly hinder hydration if:
- You’re struggling to drink enough fizzy water
Research shows that the mouthfeel of carbonated drinks increases the feeling of thirst-quench, meaning sparkling water makes you less thirsty, potentially resulting in reduced hydration compared to still water drinkers.
If you find it easy to drink the recommended volume of sparkling water each day, then carry on as normal. If you are struggling to drink enough sparkling water to hydrate, you don’t have to stop drinking it altogether, but mixing things up a bit can help.
Introducing a couple of glasses of still water into your daily hydration routine will help to maintain your appetite for water - and will make your sparkling water feel all the more special!
- You’re prone to bloating
The carbon dioxide in fizzy water can significantly increase gas levels in your stomach, which can cause bloating and feeling of fullness in some. Again, this makes drinking more water less enticing, which can lead to dehydration.
Sparkling vs still water: the takeaway for healthy hydration
When it comes to hydration in the office, the school, the gym or any other commercial or communal area, the best way to keep people hydrated, happy, and focused, is to offer both still and sparkling water.
The most practical and economical way of doing so is a combination water dispenser that makes both still and sparkling water easily accessible to all.
Our recommendations
The Cosmetal Aquality water dispenser is a durable option, perfect for offices, waiting rooms, or small public spaces. It offers high-capacity water dispensing, including room temperature, sparkling, and ice-cold options. With its tall dispense height, it easily accommodates large bottles, making hydration more convenient.
The sleek CWS b4.2 is a premium option, great for executive suites, gyms, and high-traffic areas like offices or factories. It offers hands-free still and sparkling water via a touchless foot switch or a Bluetooth® app, enhancing hygiene and convenience.
The Niagara SL is a premium, high-capacity water dispenser designed to meet the needs of busy venues with many people, offering chilled, ambient, or sparkling water options. Its tall dispense height is perfect for filling bottles and jugs, making it a convenient choice for staff rooms, schools, or customer lounges.
Boost hydration with a Cactus Water System
Both sparkling and still water offer excellent hydration, with no significant difference in their ability to keep you refreshed and healthy.
Sparkling water may add a fun twist and even offer digestive benefits, but still water remains a simple, reliable option for daily hydration. The key is offering both, so everyone can stay hydrated according to their preference.
To learn more about the best hydration solutions for your space, contact Cactus Water Systems today.
