Is Sparking Water Good for you? Heres What the Science Really Says
Chilled sparkling water – it’s refreshing year-round. And the light fizz feels a little indulgent. But is it actually good for you?
What is sparkling water?
Sparkling water is water that’s been infused with carbon dioxide (or carbonated) under pressure. This creates those signature bubbles that give it a refreshing, crisp texture. Some are naturally carbonated from mineral springs, while others are made by carbonating purified water.
In short, it’s everything you love about still water – just with more sparkle and texture. But is carbonated water healthy?
Is sparkling water good for you?
Yes – plain sparkling water is good for your health. Medical experts say that it hydrates just as well as still water. The key is choosing varieties that have no added sugar or artificial ingredients. For many people, it even encourages us to drink more. And that’s a big win (especially in a hot country like Australia).
What makes it even better? Sparkling water can help you enjoy your drink. It’s a light but indulgent upgrade. Whether you’re pairing it with dinner, replacing soft drinks, or reaching for it between meetings, it can be part of a balanced, health-focused lifestyle.
Those lively bubbles don’t just tickle your tastebuds – they can also help you feel full. A 2026 study suggests that carbonated drinks can support healthy eating and lifestyle habits. It’s an easy way to feel satisfied between meals.
3. It may support healthy digestion
Sparkling water could help you feel lighter after a rich meal. According to University Hospitals, carbonated water may ease mild digestive discomfort and support regularity. And the experts at WebMD agree. Sparkling water is a small, fizzy assist for your gut.
4. It’s a great alternative to sugary drinks
Trying to cut back on soft drinks or mixers? Sparkling water delivers the same fizz and texture without the added sugar. TheHeart Foundation recommends sparkling water as a healthy alternative to sugary drinks, and so does Health Direct from the Australian Government. It’s a smarter choice that still feels like a treat – especially when poured over ice with a slice of citrus.
Now, let’s look at some common concerns to make sure sparkling water is good for you.
Myths about sparkling water
Myth #1: It’s bad for your teeth
You’ve probably heard this one. While soft drinks are well known for damaging enamel, what about sparkling water? According to the Australian Dental Association, even sugar-free drinks—including plain sparkling water—can contribute to enamel erosion over time. That’s because carbonation makes the water slightly acidic.
The good news? The risk is lower than with sugary drinks, and you can reduce the impact by enjoying sparkling water with meals, avoiding frequent sipping throughout the day, and rinsing with plain water afterwards.
Myth #2: It dehydrates you
This simply isn’t true. Sparkling water hydrates you just like still water does. If anything, the fizz can help you stay better hydrated if it means you drink more overall.
Myth #3: It causes bloating in everyone
While some people might feel bloated after fizzy drinks, health experts say that drinking sparkling water actually aids in digestion for many of us. It’s about balance. If you enjoy it and feel good drinking it, there’s no reason to hold back.
What about acid reflux? It’s good to be mindful if you live with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or experience frequent heartburn. The bubbles can increase pressure in the stomach, which may push acid upward and trigger discomfort in some people.
UChicago Medicine suggests you could switch to still water if you experience acid reflux or excessive gas from carbonated water. That said, research hasn't consistently linked plain sparkling water to causing or worsening GERD. It varies from person to person.
If you're unsure, try smaller amounts with meals and see how your body responds.
Sparkling water from the tap? Meet Zip
Plain sparkling water is clearly a healthy and hydrating choice. But here’s something you might not know – you don’t need to buy it in bottles.
With a ZipHydroTap, you can enjoy lightly sparkling water straight from your tap. It’s filtered, chilled, and perfectly carbonated without the plastic, the waste, or the fridge clutter. Just crisp, pure-tasting water instantly.
Why does that really matter?
Because the HydroTap makes life easier and your water better. Zip’s MicroPurity filtration technology removes dirt, contaminants and microplastics down to 0.2 microns, so what you drink is cleaner and fresher.
The CO₂ used in a Zip HydroTap is beverage-grade, meeting the same food-safety standards as any commercially bottled sparkling water – a minimum purity of 99.9%.
It’s also more efficient. You can get up to five water types from a single tap—boiling, chilled, sparkling, ambient, and hot—so there’s no need for kettles, bottles, or bench-top appliances. That means fewer purchases, less energy use and a more streamlined kitchen.
We also make our taps beautiful and functional. With seven tap styles and seven finishes to choose from, the HydroTap fits seamlessly into any modern kitchen.
It’s a smart switch if you value convenience, sustainability and award-winning design. You’ll drink more water, reduce waste and save time without compromising on taste.
What happens when you drink sparkling water every day?
Drinking sparkling water is healthy. Drinking it every day is a healthy habit. If you drink enough, you will stay hydrated and support digestion and satiety. Just avoid flavoured varieties with added sugar or artificial ingredients. Rinse with still water or enjoy it with meals to err on the side of caution and protect your tooth enamel.
Is sparkling water healthier than still water?
Both are healthy and hydrate equally well. If you’re more likely to drink sparkling water because you enjoy it more, it could be your better option. Ultimately, the best water is the one you’ll drink consistently.
What are the benefits of sparkling water?
Sparkling water keeps you hydrated, helps you feel full, supports digestive comfort, and makes it easier to reduce sugary drink intake. And the cherry on top – you’ll enjoy drinking it. Especially when it’s chilled and on tap with a Zip Water system.