
Synthetic Food Dyes
Monthly Newsletter – August ’23 Synthetic Food Dyes (And Their Risks To…
I know you are saying: “Ok, I get it…Enough about water, Debbie”. You should have a pretty solid grasp on how important water is to the human machine, but let’s face it, water can taste pretty boring! I don’t recommend sugary additives to make it taste better, and coffee and tea contain various amounts of caffeine which can dehydrate and sort of defeats the purpose of drinking water in the first place. So what other options do you have? Let’s explore carbonated water and its effects on health.
Carbonated water is a popular choice for those looking to quench their thirst without the negative effects of sugary drinks. However, some people have concerns regarding its impact on health. In this article, we will explore the different health effects of carbonated water, answering some of the most common questions.
Carbonated water, also known as sparkling water, club soda, soda water, seltzer water, and fizzy water, is water infused with carbon dioxide gas under pressure. This process produces a bubbly drink, which can be enhanced with added salt and minerals. While seltzer water is usually mineral-free, other carbonated waters often contain minerals and sulfur compounds. Tonic water is another form of carbonated water that contains quinine, a bitter compound, along with sugar or high-fructose corn syrup.
Carbonated water has a slightly acidic pH of 3-4, which can cause a burning and prickly sensation in the mouth. However, this does not mean that it increases the body’s acidity. The kidneys and lungs work to remove excess carbon dioxide, maintaining the blood at a slightly alkaline pH of 7.35-7.45, regardless of what you eat or drink.
One of the main concerns about sparkling water is its effect on teeth. While there is little research on this topic, studies have shown that sparkling mineral water has a similar effect on enamel as still water. Additionally, mineral water is 100 times less damaging to enamel than sugary drinks. Sugar-sweetened carbonated beverages have been shown to erode tooth enamel, while sugar-free carbonated drinks are less harmful. To minimize potential damage, try drinking carbonated water with meals or rinsing your mouth with plain water after consuming it.
Carbonated water may have several benefits for digestion. Studies suggest that it may improve swallowing ability and feelings of fullness after meals. In addition, it may help relieve constipation, leading to improvements in bowel movement frequency. In some cases, it may also improve other symptoms of indigestion, such as stomach pain.
While some people believe that carbonated drinks are bad for bones, research suggests that carbonation isn’t the culprit. Cola drinks have been shown to decrease bone mineral density, while carbonated water appears to have no effect on bone health. In fact, animal research suggests that carbonated water may even improve bone strength.
Although the research on carbonated water’s effect on heart health is limited, one study in postmenopausal women showed that drinking sodium-rich carbonated water decreased LDL (bad) cholesterol, inflammatory markers, and blood sugar. Additionally, those who consumed carbonated water had a lower estimated risk of developing heart disease within ten years than those who drank plain water.
Carbonated water is a calorie-free beverage that can be a healthy alternative to sugary drinks. While it is slightly acidic, it does not increase the body’s acidity. I recommend using plain carbonated water, which appears to be relatively harmless to dental health and may even benefit digestion and heart health. Avoid sugar-sweetened carbonated beverages which have been proven to cause dental decay and other health-related issues.
Now that you’ve learned a bit more about carbonated water and its effects on health why not give it a try?
Tip: I save money by making my own pure pre-filtered carbonated water. Watch for one of my upcoming Healthy Tips where I’ll tell you all about it.
Whatever water you choose…Hydrate To Live!
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My Wellness Academy was created with better Health in mind. Your Health! With my guidance, your journey to a healthy lifestyle can be attained through continually learning about the many healthy choices that are available to you that you might not be aware of. If you can follow the tips that I provide in this course, success can be yours by forming new, healthier habits that could soon become a part of your daily life.
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