Sparkling Water Versus Regular Water

Water is essential for life and good health. People need varying amounts of water depending on their age, sex and activity level, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Some people have a hard time meeting their water consumption goals because they dislike drinking regular water. Sparkling water is a good alternative to regular water.

Sparkling Water

Sparkling water is also known as seltzer or carbonated water. Carbon dioxide is added to regular water to create the bubbles in sparkling water. This is the same process used to create the fizz in soda. Sparkling water is calorie free and does not contain artificial sweeteners or additives, according to the Carbonated Seltzer Water website.

Regular Water

Water is the best thing to drink to stay hydrated, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. It is calorie free and contains varying amounts of minerals, depending on its source. There has been some concern regarding the safety of tap water versus bottled water. Tap water and bottled water are both considered safe, according to the San Francisco Department of Public Health. The Environmental Protection Agency regulates tap water and the Food and Drug Administration regulates bottled water. There is no difference in the health benefits of bottled water and tap water, but bottled water is significantly more expensive, says the San Francisco Department of Public Health.

Benefits of Drinking Water

Body weight is more than half water, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Water is necessary for survival and plays a role in regulating body temperature, removing waste and lubricating joints. Water is lost on a daily basis through normal bodily functions including sweating, going to the bathroom and breathing. People should drink water whenever they feel thirsty, suggests the American Academy of Family Physicians, to prevent dehydration.

Benefits of Carbonated Water

In addition to being a source of hydration, carbonated water has other health benefits. A 2004 study published in The Journal of Nutrition by Stefanie Schoppen investigated the effects of carbonated water on cardiovascular risk in post-menopausal women. The women were asked to drink one liter of regular water per day for two months and then one liter of carbonated water per day for two months. After drinking the carbonated water, the women had a 6.8 percent drop in total cholesterol, a 14.8 percent drop in LDL cholesterol and a 14.8 percent increase in HDL cholesterol.

Considerations

Sparkling water and regular water are calorie free and good choices for staying hydrated. People may choose sparkling water if they do not like regular water. Lemon or lime can also be added to any type of water for flavor. The American Academy of Family Physicians also suggests drinking water when you feel hungry. Thirst can sometimes be mistaken for hunger, and drinking water, especially sparkling water, can help people feel full.