Drinking sparkling water might be more beneficial than previously thought, potentially contributing to weight loss, as explored in a recent report published in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health. Authored by Akira Takahashi, the report investigates the physiological effects of carbonated water on red blood cell uptake and glucose metabolism. Despite the promising theoretical framework, experts emphasize the need for further clinical research to substantiate these claims.
The study draws parallels to a 2004 paper discussing hemodialysis and its impact on blood sugar levels. Hemodialysis is known to consume approximately 9.5 grams of glucose during a four-hour session. However, Takahashi notes that consuming carbonated water delivers CO₂ into the bloodstream, albeit for a much shorter duration than hemodialysis, potentially leading to minimal glucose consumption.
“When carbonated water is consumed, CO₂ is absorbed into the blood vessels in the stomach. This CO₂ rapidly penetrates the lipid membranes of red blood cells and is converted into bicarbonate ions by carbonic anhydrase, increasing the alkalinity of the red blood cells. This alkalinity promotes glycolysis, which consumes glucose in red blood cells and lowers blood glucose levels.”— Akira Takahashi, report author
While the hypothesis suggests that sparkling water may assist in lowering blood glucose levels through enhanced glycolysis, the theory remains speculative without supportive clinical evidence. Mir Ali, MD, a board-certified general surgeon and medical director at MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center in Fountain Valley, CA, stresses that more research involving human trials is crucial.
“This is an interesting study, though it is theoretical and requires clinical research in people comparing consumption of carbonated water vs non-carbonated water. If studies in humans show a benefit of carbonated water, then it may be an adjunct to a healthy diet.”— Mir Ali, MD
Takahashi’s report acknowledges that while drinking carbonated water could lead to temporary glucose consumption near the stomach, the overall impact on weight loss is currently inconclusive. The study highlights the potential of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) as a tool to verify these effects, suggesting that CGM could provide valuable insights into how carbonated water influences blood glucose levels over time.
“While drinking carbonated water may lead to temporary glucose consumption in the blood near the stomach, further research is needed to confirm this effect.”— Akira Takahashi, report author
Mir Ali points out that the potential benefits of sparkling water extend beyond weight loss. Previous studies have indicated that carbonated water may offer relief from constipation, showcasing its diverse physiological impacts.
“The potential benefits are largely unknown, though there have been some studies that show carbonated water may aid in constipation relief,”— Mir Ali, MD
However, Ali emphasizes that due to the brief exposure of CO₂ when drinking carbonated water compared to hemodialysis, its effect on glucose consumption is negligible.
“During a four-hour session of hemodialysis, only about 9.5g of glucose is consumed. Since drinking carbonated water provides CO₂ for a much shorter period than hemodialysis, its effect on glucose consumption is negligible and does not contribute to weight loss.”— Mir Ali, MD
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