Which type of water is best for our health?

If you like soda, here's why you shouldn't give up sparkling water.

Sparkling, mineral, tonic, and flavored water are similar, but not the same products.

The bubbles in sparkling water are created by adding carbon dioxide to filtered water. It reacts by producing carbonic acid, which makes carbonated water more acidic (with a pH around 3.5) than still water (closer to neutral with a pH around 6.5-8.5).

Water is the best way to hydrate the body. Research shows that when it comes to hydration, carbonated and still water are equally effective.

Some people believe that water is healthier when it comes from a sealed bottle. But in Australia, tap water is monitored very carefully. Unlike bottled water, it has the added benefit of fluoride, which helps young children protect against tooth decay and cavities.

Carbonated and plain water are always better than artificially sweetened drinks or juices.

There is no evidence that sparkling water damages bones. Although consumption of many soft drinks is associated with increased fractures, this is largely because of their association with higher rates of obesity.

Carbonated water is more acidic than still water, and the acidity can soften tooth enamel. Usually this is not something to worry about unless mixed with sugar or citrus fruits, which have much higher acidity levels and can damage teeth.

However, if you frequently grind your teeth, the softening can increase the damage it causes. If you undertake the process of whitening your teeth at home, soda water can discolor your teeth.

In most other cases, you will need much more sparkling water to pass through your teeth over a long period of time to cause noticeable damage.

There is a misconception that drinking any type of water during a meal is bad for digestion.

Although theoretically water can dilute stomach acid (which breaks down food), the practice of consuming water does not seem to have any negative effect. Our digestive system simply adapts to the consistency of the meal.

Some people find that carbonated beverages upset their stomach. This is because of the build up of gas, which can cause bloating, cramping and discomfort. For people with an overactive bladder, the acidity can also worsen the condition of the urinary system.

Interestingly, the fizzy mouthfeel from carbonated water weakens the more you drink it.