Sparkling Water During Pregnancy: Is It Safe to Drink?

Can Pregnant Women Drink Sparkling Water? 

Looking for the answer to the question “Can I drink sparkling water while pregnant?”

Pregnant women may enjoy sparkling water and mineral water as healthy hydration alternatives (2). Sparkling water that contains alcohol is not suitable for pregnant women, so steer clear of it throughout your pregnancy.

To be safe, always check the label on your sparkling water to see whether it contains any added sugars or caffeine.

Sparkling water is a type of beverage that is pressurised with carbon dioxide to produce bubbles. The advantage of sparkling water is that many people like the pressurised bubbles in their water, and it does its job of keeping you hydrated just like plain water.

Regular sparkling water and sparkling mineral water are the same thing. There are two types of sparkling mineral water: those that use naturally occurring still mineral water and carbonation and those that use both. Effervescent mineral water may not be as helpful to bone health as water that is not.

Benefits of Drinking Sparkling Water in Pregnancy 

Sparkling water and pregnancy is good to go. It is suitable for a pregnant woman if they are not liking drinking plain water (3). Here are some good things to look forward to:

1. Weight Control 

Proper hydration is critical for weight reduction. Because your body is incapable of telling the difference between hunger and dehydration, if you are experiencing hunger, it is conceivable that you are just dehydrated. Consuming enough water throughout the day can help you feel satiated for more extended periods and consume fewer calories.

2. Enhance Your Digestive System’s Health 

According to a study, sparkling water may have digestive benefits. Consumption of sparkling water aided in the relief of dyspepsia and constipation.

3. Relieves Nausea

Drinking sparkling water can offer relief from the common pregnancy symptom of nausea, as it provides a refreshing and hydrating sensation.

4. Enhances Digestion

Consuming sparkling water can enhance digestion by stimulating the production of digestive juices and enzymes, potentially alleviating issues like constipation and bloating often experienced in pregnancy.

Side Effects of Sparkling Water for Pregnant Women 

If you’re not a fan of plain water, sparkling water can be a delightful substitute for sugary beverages and fruit juices. However, there could be some side effects because consuming sparkling water while pregnant. 

1. Oral Cavity and Decay 

Plain sparkling water is fine for teeth health. However, according to the American Dental Association, sparkling waters with a high sugar content or artificial sweeteners may contribute to childhood tooth decay (4). On the other hand, plain sparkling water has a negligible effect on your teeth, especially when compared to soda use. Maintaining a consistent dental hygiene routine, as well as alternating sparkling and plain water while brushing your teeth, can help you prevent tooth decay even more.

2. Issues Like Gas and Bloating

Gas and bloating are often reported adverse effects of sparkling water use, which some ascribe to carbonation. If you notice an abnormal amount of gas in your sparkling water, it is advised that you switch to plain water until the issue is remedied.

3. Acid Reflux

Acid reflux is a common discomfort during pregnancy. While sparkling water can be a refreshing choice, it’s worth noting its acidity. For some expectant mothers, this may aggravate symptoms of acid reflux or heartburn, which are frequent in pregnancy. As your baby grows, pressure on your stomach can lead to stomach acid rising into your oesophagus, causing that familiar burning sensation.

Precautions to Take While Drinking Sparkling Water in Pregnancy 

During pregnancy, it is essential to drink plenty of fluids. According to experts, drinking water free of contaminants is considered the best beverage to consume while pregnant. Limiting your intake of these beverages may help to reduce your overall caloric intake without sacrificing any nutritional value. However, some precautions must be taken when drinking flavoured sparkling water while pregnant.

If you are expecting, here are a few things to keep in mind before drinking sparkling water:

• Soda is the first thing you should avoid since it contains toxins and provides no nutritional benefit to the infant. Sodas, which are often heavy in calories and nutritionally devoid, should also be avoided. Some expectant mothers choose water, seltzers, teas, and milk instead of alcoholic beverages.
• You should drink a lot of water when you’re pregnant, even if you’re drinking sparkling water. Increasing your fluid intake is essential for the baby’s growth because of your body’s inherent thirst signals. 
• As a pregnant woman, it’s vital to know that carbon dioxide in sparkling water might affect your unborn child. Despite the need to drink enough water, it is best to avoid alcohol.
• Select a trusted brand known for its commitment to natural ingredients, devoid of added sugars or artificial additives.

How to Make Sparkling Water? 

Those who like fizzy beverages or sparkling water know how tough it may be to locate them in the supermarket. Once it’s done, it’s a lot of work to sift and recycle all those empty plastic bottles. As a consequence, you may make one at home. Using countertop equipment, carbonating water with CO2 (carbon dioxide) is rapid and straightforward.

• It’s as simple as filling a bottle halfway with tap water, pressing the top button a few times, and voila! Sparkling water is ready in a matter of minutes.
• If you want to add a little something more to your drink, you may do it by sprinkling some lemon slices or some other fruits to make it flavoured sparkling water.

FAQs

1. Is sparkling water safe to drink during pregnancy?

Yes. Plain, unsweetened sparkling water is generally considered safe during pregnancy and can help you stay hydrated. Choose varieties without alcohol, excessive caffeine, or unnecessary additives.

2. How much sparkling water can I drink during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, it’s generally safe to enjoy moderate amounts of plain, unsweetened sparkling water. Opt for brands without added sugars or artificial sweeteners. Staying well-hydrated is essential, but consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice. If any discomfort arises, seek their guidance promptly for the best course of action.

3. Can sparkling water reduce pregnancy nausea?

Yes, sparkling water can help alleviate pregnancy nausea. Its effervescence and mild flavour may provide relief. However, individual responses vary, so it’s important to listen to your body.

4. Can sparkling water cause miscarriage or harm the baby?

No. There is no evidence that links plain sparkling water with the risk of miscarriage or harms fetal development. Make sure that the type of sparkling water you purchase is free from additives, alcohol, and sugar.

5. Can drinking sparkling water worsen heartburn during pregnancy?

Yes, it could worsen heartburn in some women. If you have already experienced burping, heartburn, nausea, or morning sickness before, carbonation in sparkling water could worsen bloating, burping, or heartburn, especially during the second and third trimesters. If this happens, switch to still water.

Even though sparkling drinking water while pregnant is not specifically recommended for pregnant women, it can benefit them in some circumstances. It is fine for pregnant women if consumed in moderation as there are possibilities of experiencing side effects due to excessive consumption.

Also Read:

Drinking Wine during Pregnancy
Consuming Coconut Water in Pregnancy
Is it Safe to Drink Warm Water while Pregnant

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Sources References

1. UChicago Medicine – Tips for managing pregnancy symptoms in the first, second and third trimesters

2. Tommy’s – Tips for an alcohol-free pregnancy

3. Intermountain Health – How Hydration During Pregnancy Can Benefit You and Your Baby

4. American Dental Association – Is Sparkling Water Bad for My Teeth?