Why You Should Drink Carbonated Water

Carbonated water has been a subject of debate in health circles for years. Is it a harmless alternative to still water, or does it pose hidden risks? This comprehensive guide dives deep into the world of sparkling water, exploring its potential benefits, addressing common concerns, and separating fact from fiction. From its effects on hydration and digestion to its role in weight management and overall health.

Is carbonated water bad for you?

• Carbonated water is not bad for you; it may have several health benefits.
• It contains CO2, which makes it slightly acidic but can improve hydration and digestion.
• Many people report feeling better and more relaxed when drinking carbonated water.

How does CO2 affect oxygen absorption?

• The Bohr Effect shows that CO2 is necessary for oxygen to be absorbed into cells.
• CO2 slightly lowers pH, allowing oxygen to be released more easily into tissues.
• Both too much and too little CO2 can lead to hypoxia (low oxygen state).

Health benefits of CO2?

• CO2 is used in carbonated spas for various health benefits, including:
  • Improving circulatory problems
  • Treating peripheral vascular disorders
  • Helping with diabetic wounds
  • Assisting in stroke recovery
• CO2 increases blood flow and microvascular circulation.
• Used in skin care products for hydration and improved circulation
• Has anti-inflammatory properties
• Can be added to water using home carbonation machines for potential health benefits

How does CO2 affect the nervous system?

• Increased CO2 activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which:
  • Promotes healing
  • Improves digestion
  • Enhances sleep
• This activation can be measured using heart rate variability technology.

What is the relationship between CO2 and cancer?

• Cancer cells are more alkaline inside than normal cells.
• CO2 deprivation can lead to alkalosis (overly alkaline state).
• CO2 has potential anti-tumor properties:
  • Inhibits metastasis (cancer spread)
  • Induces apoptosis (cancer cell death)
  • Inhibits the HIF-Alpha gene involved in cancer development

The natural sources of CO2?

• After thunderstorms (increased CO2 in the air)
• Breathing through the nose (compared to mouth breathing)
• Hot springs (contain significant amounts of CO2)

So let’s dive into the details…

Is carbonated water bad for you?

Now I’ve been very curious about why I feel so much better when I drink carbonated water versus regular water and I didn’t know the answer until very recently so I’m going to share this with you as well as some other fascinating things related to CO2 carbon dioxide.

So whether you’re drinking soda water, Club water, seltzer water, Lacroix, or any type of carbonated water, this relates to CO2 because the way they carbonate It Is by adding this gas CO2 into the water which does make it slightly acidic because it turns into carbonic acid unless it’s stored a little bit differently as these bicarbonates in water.

• Carbonated water contains added CO2
• CO2 makes water slightly acidic due to carbonic acid formation
• Personal experience: improved hydration and digestion with carbonated water

Carbonated water explained

The Bohr Effect and Oxygen Absorption

Regardless of that when I drink carbon and water I just feel more hydrated my digestion is better and I just I feel better I feel more relaxed when I drink carbonated water.

So if you happen to see some other videos related to carbon dioxide I mentioned this one effect called the bore effect BOHR that is a condition that relates to CO2

in other words or oxygen to be absorbed into your cells into the tissues takes CO2 which is very counterintuitive you would think logically if you got more air okay less CO2 you would have more oxygen but that’s not true

it takes that CO2 to slightly adjust the ph and drop it a little bit and make it slightly more acidic to allow the oxygen to be released.

• Bohr Effect: CO2 is necessary for oxygen absorption in cells
• CO2 slightly lowers pH, allowing oxygen release
• Counterintuitive: More CO2 can lead to better oxygen absorption

CO2 and Breathing

This is why if you hyperventilate in a panic attack you’re getting too much O2 and not enough CO2 and you can’t breathe right and then you start breathing in a paper bag and you get more CO2 and now you can breathe

in fact you can actually create a hypoxic state that is a state of lowered oxygen by depriving the tissues of CO2 which is very interesting because normally you would think hypoxia low oxygen means too much CO2

which can occur but you can also create that same situation with not enough CO2 so CO2 is really essential in the homeostasis of oxygen absorption.

• Hyperventilation: Too much O2, not enough CO2
• Breathing into a paper bag increases CO2, improving breathing
• Hypoxia (low oxygen) can be caused by both too much and too little CO2

Understanding carbon dioxide

CO2 in Medical Usage

Now in Europe they actually have these sauna baths that are carbonated they call them carbonated spas or baths where they pump the CO2 into this water and apparently it’s great for all sorts of circulatory problems

like problems with your vascular system especially something called peripheral vascular disorders they even use it for diabetic wounds and to decrease the rate of getting an amputation where they cut off the feet

I mean it can actually improve that by increasing microvascular circulation so basically CO2 increases blood flow it’s even used as the therapy after someone gets a stroke and they have this hypoxic low oxygen State because the CO2 helps that oxygen go deep into the cells.

• Carbonated spas in Europe use CO2 for various health benefits
• CO2 therapy helps with:
  • Circulatory problems
  • Peripheral vascular disorders
  • Diabetic wounds
  • Stroke recovery
• CO2 increases blood flow and microvascular circulation

CO2 and the Parasympathetic Nervous System

Now I could not find any research on drinking carbonated water okay in that relating to an improved Health but I have found parallel research and all the things

I’m talking about and I’ll include that down below and one state I found there was a significant increase in the parasympathetic nervous system activation by increasing CO2 that’s the system

that counters the flutter fight mode it’s the system that helps your healing and your digestion and your ability to sleep and the device they use to measure the parasympathetic is what I used in my practice which is technology called heart rate variability.

• CO2 increases parasympathetic nervous system activation
• Parasympathetic system benefits:
  • Promotes healing
  • Improves digestion
  • Enhances sleep
• Heart rate variability used to measure parasympathetic activity

Benefits of CO2

CO2 and Cancer Cells

Let’s take a look at some other things that I found related to this if you take a normal cell inside and then you take a cancer cell and we look at the pH of each one a cancer cell actually is more alkaline

now the outside of the cell more acidic because of all the byproducts from lactic acid things like that but the inside of the cell is more alkaline than a normal cell which is very interesting especially as it relates to CO2 and I couldn’t find any information on this

but think about this when you deprive a tissue of CO2 you actually can develop alkalosis that is a state of being too alkaline so without that CO2 turning into carbonic acid you can develop an overly alkaline State.

• Cancer cells are more alkaline inside than normal cells
• CO2 deprivation can lead to alkalosis (overly alkaline state)
• CO2 plays a role in maintaining cellular pH balance

CO2 as an Anti-Tumor Agent

And then I wanted to figure out is there any relationship or any significant Improvement in shrinking tumors or stopping the spread of cancer by increasing CO2 and I found a bunch of research which is also very interesting

which I’ll include down below so apparently CO2 is a significant potent anti-tumor gas it has the ability to inhibit metastasis which is interesting as well as inducing apoptosis which causes the cancer cells to commit suicide it

also inhibits this very interesting Gene that’s involved in this switching mechanism between a normal cell and it turning into cancer that gene is called HIF-Alpha which is involved in hypoxia.

• CO2 has potential anti-tumor properties:
  • Inhibits metastasis (cancer spread)
  • Induces apoptosis (cancer cell death)
  • Inhibits HIF-Alpha gene (involved in cancer development)

Natural Sources of CO2

Now this probably doesn’t make sense unless you understand that CO2 allows oxygen to go into the tissues and as bad as hypoxia is it can be created by a lowered amount of CO2 as well as lowered oxygen levels but also there’s this CO2 connection that is very interesting

I had this thing in my mind where if we just flood the body with oxygen right we’ll be able to kill the cancer and we can prevent cancer but apparently the CO2 is another key factor that we cannot ignore.

Like even in a thunderstorm um you can probably breathe better and if you ever wanted to know why well apparently there’s a lot more CO2 in the air after a thunderstorm than there is when there’s not a thunderstorm going on

also you’ll actually get more oxygen into your tissues if you breathe through your nose not your mouth when you’re sleeping as well as when you exercise there’s another interesting natural bath like the Springs

if you go to the hot springs and at first we might think there’s a lot of minerals involved that are helping us but guess what there’s a significant amount of CO2 in Hot Springs which could be the reason why you feel better and you’re more relaxed.

• CO2 is crucial for oxygen absorption in tissues
• Natural sources of increased CO2:
  • After thunderstorms
  • Breathing through the nose
  • Hot springs
• Increased CO2 may contribute to feeling better and more relaxed

Other Usage of CO2

Now they’re even using CO2 in various creams for hydration to your skin and better circulation and blood flow which is another interesting piece of this puzzle and the last point about the CO2 is that CO2 apparently is a potent anti-inflammatory

so I just wanted to increase your awareness on the CO2 this carbon dioxide thing as well as carbonated water and this could be the reason

which I think it is of why you may feel better if you consume more carbonated water and what I have is I have a little carbonated machine that makes my water carbonated so I take my spring water and I carbonate it and that’s what I drink.

• CO2 used in skincare products for hydration and circulation
• CO2 has anti-inflammatory properties
• Carbonated water may provide health benefits due to CO2 content
• Home carbonation machines allow for easy creation of carbonated water

Summary

The body needs CO2 for oxygen to be absorbed into the cells. You can even put your body in a hypoxic state (low oxygen state) by depriving your tissues of CO2.

Carbonated spas or baths are used in some places for people with circulatory problems or diabetic wounds. It’s also used as a therapy for people after a stroke and to decrease the rate of amputation.

While I wasn’t able to find research on the health benefits of carbonated water, I did find some parallel research on CO2. CO2 is a potent anti-tumor, anti-cancer, and anti-inflammatory gas.

One study found a significant increase in the activation of the parasympathetic nervous system by increasing CO2. The parasympathetic nervous system counters fight or flight mode and supports healing, digestion, and sleep.

CO2 is a key factor we can’t ignore. You can increase your CO2 by breathing through your nose, especially while you sleep or exercise. Hot springs also have a significant amount of CO2. It’s even used in certain skin creams.

DATA

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18949492

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32633896

FAQ

Are there benefits to drinking carbonated water?

Yes, there are several potential benefits to drinking carbonated water:

• Improved hydration due to increased palatability
• Enhanced digestion and reduced constipation
• Increased feeling of fullness, which may aid in weight management
• Potential relief from indigestion and bloating
• Possible improvement in swallowing ability for some individuals

Research suggests that carbonated water can stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and improved overall well-being.

Is it okay to drink carbonated water every day?

For most people, drinking carbonated water daily is generally safe and can be a healthy alternative to sugary beverages. However, consider the following:

• Moderation is key – balance carbonated water with still water intake
• Choose plain carbonated water without added sugars or artificial sweeteners
• Those with certain digestive issues like IBS may need to limit intake
• Monitor dental health, as some carbonated waters can be slightly acidic

Consult with a healthcare provider if you have specific health concerns or conditions that may be affected by carbonated beverages.

Is drinking carbonated water better than regular?

Carbonated water can be a beneficial alternative to regular water for some individuals:

• May increase water consumption due to improved taste preference
• Can provide a satisfying alternative to sugary sodas
• Potential digestive benefits not found in still water
• Similar hydration effects to regular water

However, both carbonated and still water are important for overall hydration. The best choice depends on personal preference and health needs.

Is sparkling water good for skin?

Sparkling water may have some benefits for skin health:

• Promotes overall hydration, which is crucial for healthy skin
• CO2 content may improve blood circulation, potentially benefiting skin
• Some spas use carbonated water treatments for skin rejuvenation
• May help maintain skin’s pH balance when used topically

While direct skin benefits are not extensively studied, proper hydration from any water source contributes to skin health.

Why you should drink carbonated water for weight loss

Carbonated water may support weight loss efforts in several ways:

• Increases feelings of fullness, potentially reducing overall calorie intake
• Serves as a zero-calorie alternative to sugary beverages
• May slightly increase metabolic rate due to carbon dioxide content
• Helps maintain hydration, which is important for weight management
• Can satisfy cravings for carbonated drinks without added sugars

While not a magic solution, carbonated water can be a useful tool in a comprehensive weight loss strategy.

Is carbonated water bad for your kidneys?

Generally, carbonated water is not harmful to kidney health:

• No evidence suggests carbonated water negatively impacts kidney function
• Helps maintain overall hydration, which is beneficial for kidney health
• Plain carbonated water doesn’t contain substances that stress the kidneys
• May be a good alternative for those limiting sodium or other minerals

However, individuals with specific kidney conditions should consult their healthcare provider about their optimal fluid intake, including carbonated beverages.

Is sparkling water good for weight loss?

Sparkling water can support weight loss efforts:

• Zero-calorie alternative to high-calorie, sugary drinks
• May increase feelings of satiety, potentially reducing overall food intake
• Helps maintain hydration, which is crucial for metabolism and weight management
• Can satisfy cravings for carbonated beverages without added sugars or artificial sweeteners
• May slightly increase metabolic rate, though effects are likely minimal

While not a direct weight loss solution, sparkling water can be a valuable part of a balanced, calorie-conscious diet.

Is it bad to drink sparkling water everyday?

For most people, drinking sparkling water daily is not harmful:

• No significant negative health effects have been consistently reported
• Can contribute to daily hydration needs
• May offer digestive benefits for some individuals
• Provides a healthier alternative to sugary sodas

However, consider dental health (due to slight acidity) and personal digestive responses. Balance sparkling water with still water and maintain good oral hygiene.

Carbonated water side effects

While generally safe, some potential side effects of carbonated water include:

• Increased gas and bloating in sensitive individuals
• Potential tooth enamel erosion due to carbonic acid (though less than sugary sodas)
• Possible aggravation of acid reflux or IBS symptoms in some people
• Reduced hunger cues, which could be positive or negative depending on health goals
• Potential calcium loss in bones (controversial and not conclusively proven)

Most side effects are mild and not experienced by everyone. Monitor your body’s response and consult a healthcare provider if concerned.

Is carbonated water good for you?

Carbonated water can be a healthy beverage choice:

• Provides hydration similar to still water
• May improve digestion and reduce constipation
• Can increase feelings of fullness, potentially aiding weight management
• Offers a sugar-free, calorie-free alternative to sodas
• Contains minerals in some cases (sparkling mineral water)
• May have mild benefits for heart health and blood sugar control

While not superior to still water, carbonated water can be a beneficial part of a balanced diet for most people.

Carbonated water benefits

Carbonated water offers several potential health benefits:

• Improved hydration and increased water intake
• Enhanced digestion and reduced constipation
• Potential aid in weight management
• Possible improvement in swallowing function
• May help alleviate indigestion and bloating
• Zero-calorie alternative to sugary beverages
• Potential benefits for dental health compared to acidic soft drinks
• May stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation

These benefits make carbonated water a versatile and potentially healthful beverage option for many individuals.

Is carbonated water bad for you Mayo Clinic?

According to the Mayo Clinic, carbonated water is generally not bad for you:

• No evidence of harm to bone health or significant calcium loss
• Hydrating properties similar to still water
• May actually improve digestion for some individuals
• No direct link to tooth decay, though slightly more acidic than plain water
• Can be a healthy alternative to sugary drinks

The Mayo Clinic suggests that carbonated water can be part of a healthy diet for most people, but individuals with specific health concerns should consult their healthcare provider.