Soda water is known by many names, including sparkling water, club soda, fizzy water, seltzer water, and carbonated water. Healthline explains that it’s a type water that’s been infused with carbon dioxide gas under pressure, thereby resulting in a bubbly, carbonated drink. Some carbonated water includes salt or other minerals in order to improve the taste.
Some pregnant women have discovered that soda water helps improve their morning sickness, which is often characterized by nausea, vomiting, and even abdominal discomfort. Below, we discuss how soda water can improve morning sickness as well as concerns associated with its consumption.
How Soda Water Improves Morning Sickness
Sparkling water can make it easier to keep food down while decreasing nausea. In general, carbonated drinks have been known to reduce morning sickness. This is because it can reduce acidity in the stomach, which otherwise causes discomfort. This is why carbonated drinks, in general, are better to relieve nausea that regular water.
“Carbonation can help to reduce the total acidity of the stomach, which may help the nausea dissipate,” Dr. Lawrence Szarka, a gastroenterologist at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., explained to The Wall Street Journal. Even more, because the yummy flavors of carbonated drinks are usually associated with satisfaction, it can cause a placebo effect, further alleviating nausea and other discomfort associated with morning sickness.
With that being said, many expectant women turn to soda water as opposed to other carbonated drinks, such as coca cola, because it has a lower sugar content, making it a healthier option. This is especially important for expecting women dealing with gestational diabetes.
There are several specific benefits to soda water that have a positive impact on morning sickness, including the following:
Improves Swallowing
Some studies have suggested that sparkling water can improve swallowing in adults and children. One study, in particular, found that of 72 participants who reported a persistent need to clear their throats, 63% saw an improvement upon drinking ice-cold carbonated water. In fact, participants with the severest symptoms appeared to benefit the most from soda water.
For mothers with morning sickness who are having trouble keeping food down, drinking a few sips of carbonated water could go a long way.
Increases Fullness
If you’re constantly hungry as a result of morning sickness, carbonated water can help you feel fuller, especially after meals in comparison to regular water. One study, for example, looked at 19 healthy women who reported feeling fuller after drinking only 8 ounces or 250 ml of soda water.
Relieves Constipation
According to Parents, many pregnant women experience constipation in addition to morning sickness, another common symptom of pregnancy. But like it can improve morning sickness, soda water can have a positive impact on constipation.
Healthline explains that a two-week study conducted in individuals over the age of 40 who had experienced a stroke found that bowel movements had doubled in participants who drank carbonated water in comparison to those instructed to only drink tap water. The study also found that 58% of respondents who drank soda water saw a decrease in their constipation symptoms. The publication adds that research has suggested soda water, in general, improves digestion.
Keeps You Hydrated
Soda water offers one of the key advantages that normal water carries, too, that being it keeps you hydrated. If you’re constantly throwing up as a result of morning sickness, it’s important to stay hydrated to make up for all of the fluids that are being lost. Soda water is a good place to start, and because it’s usually easier to keep down than regular water when you’re nauseous, it stands a better chance of keeping you hydrated. A lack of hydration can make your morning sickness symptoms worse, so make sure to consume plenty of fluids.
The Dangers Of Soda Water
Although soda water can be a cure for morning sickness, it should be consumed in moderation. This is because there are several health concerns associated with sparkling or soda water that expectant moms need to be aware of.
The main with soda water is its effects on your teeth. Since soda water is acidic – the carbon dioxide and water react chemically to result in carbonic acid, which produces the bubbly sensation – this may damage enamel, Healthline warns. Research has found that the combination of sugar and carbonation can result in dental decay. The publication recommends drinking sparkling water with a meal or rinsing your mouth out after consuming it in order to mitigate the effects of enamel loss or tooth decay.
With that being said, soda water is still a better alternative to traditional carbonated drinks. Healthline cited a study that found soda water is 100 times less harmful to teeth than sugary soft drinks.
There have been concerns that soda water can leech calcium from your bones. However, Quick and Dirty Tips explains this isn’t because of the carbonation found in soda water and soft drinks, but rather is usually attributed to low rates of calcium in the individual’s diet. There’s no existing research to suggest that soda water affects bone density.
Other than potential dental concerns, Healthline explains that there is no existing research to suggest that soda water causes damage to your health. In fact, given that it can keep you hydrated and prevent the effects of morning sickness or an upset stomach, in general, the pros definitely outweigh the cons.
Tips For Drinking Soda Water In Pregnancy
Like with any drink that isn’t plain, ol’ water, moderation is key. Speak with your doctor to learn the recommended amount of soda water you should be drinking. If you notice any uncomfortable side effects when drinking soda water in pregnancy, consult your doctor for more information.
Another important thing to remember is to sip slowly. Carbonation can lead to feelings of fullness quicker than other beverages. However, especially in pregnant women prone to morning sickness, this can increase nausea and even lead to vomiting, making soda water counterproductive if consumed too quickly.
Sources: Healthline, Pub Med, Pub Med, Parents, The Wall Street Journal, Quick and Dirty Tips,