Is Seltzer Water Bad For You?

Several of us were having a discussion not long ago about the possible negative effects of carbonated water on calcium and vitamin absorption. Many doctors are suggesting that women with osteopena or osteoporosis NOT drink carbonated beverages. They feel there is some evidence that it leaches calcium from your bones. The research I did shows otherwise. There seems to be very little difference in the absorption of calcium and vitamins among women who drink carbonated water and those that don't.

Seltzer water is plain water with dissolved carbon dioxide. It was invented in the late 1700's. Adding carbon dioxide to water creates carbonic acid, which makes the water slightly more acidic than plain tap water. The acidity of the water does not affect your ability to absorb vitamins and minerals, nor does it have an impact on the health of your bones.

Phosphoric acid has been implicated as the substance that interferes with your body's ability to absorb calcium, as well as increasing the loss of calcium from your bones. However, evidence to support this theory is limited, and phosphoric acid is not commonly found in non-cola drinks.

The main reason you are probably concerned about seltzer and calcium is because of how it can affect your bone health. A 2006 study by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that the consumption of cola in older women led to a slight decrease in bone density, but these women also had a lower overall intake of calcium. Other carbonated beverages such as seltzer water did not lead to a decrease in bone density.

So it appears that carbonated water in general is neutral. However, evidence shows a slight decrease in bone density for those that drink cola. Bottom line, enjoy your carbonated beverages, but stick to the non cola drinks.