The popularity of bubbly water drinks has exploded – driven in part by consumers’ search for healthier alternatives to soda. To meet this demand, most grocery stores now stock a wide variety of bubbly waters. We spent some time reviewing these products recently and have a few observations to pass along.
- Although these drinks are labeled differently (sparkling water, seltzer water, club soda), the source of the bubbles is the same. It’s carbon dioxide gas (carbonation). Naturally carbonated water is not healthier than others but can cost two to three times more.
- Most bubbly waters are flavored using fruit juice, fruit flavorings (natural and artificial), and/or fruit essence. Manufacturers must specify these details on the ingredients list.
- Both the Nutrition Facts and the ingredients list are useful to check for added sweeteners.
- The Nutrition Facts will show the amount of added sugar and the % Daily Value per serving. The 5/20 rule can help you interpret this.
- The Ingredients List will tell you if a non-sugar sweetener has been added. Here is a list of those often used for drinks:
- Allulose
- Acesulfame Potassium
- Aspartame
- Monk Fruit
- Stevia
- Sucralose
- An increasing number of bubbly waters promise to do more than just provide refreshment. Some claim benefits related to nutrition, digestion, and mood. With little or no supporting evidence, these drinks may not be worth the extra cost.
- The benefit of sparkling mineral water has more to do with taste than health because these drinks contain tiny amounts of just a few minerals.
Bottom line? Bubbly water drinks can be a healthy alternative to soda. When choosing for kids, we recommend one with no added sugar or non-sugar sweeteners, little or no fruit juice, and no herbal or nutritional supplements. You can also make flavored bubbly water at home with a few low-cost ingredients. Check out our recipes for Sparkly Lemon Tea, Berry Tea Fizz, and Sparkling A la Orangeberry.
This article was written Jamie Benedict, Ph.D, R.D.N, L.D. If you have a suggestion for a topic for the Insider, write to rethinkyourdrinknevada@unr.edu and receive a free, healthy drink recipe book.
