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I drink a lot of sparkling water, but I’ve heard that carbonated drinks leach calcium from the bones. Is that true?
-Anonymous, Germany
Sparkling water, also called seltzer water or carbonated water, is plain water with added carbon dioxide. The result is effervescence that some deem more palatable than plain water. Research on carbonated water and bone health is very limited, as most studies on bone density have concerned carbonated soda, not carbonated water. Research suggests that certain ingredients in soda, particularly dark-colored ones like Pepsi and Coke, may reduce bone mineral density, which can increase the risk of fractures or osteoporosis.
Phosphoric acid is an additive in most sodas, used as a preservative and to enhance flavor. Too much phosphorus and too little calcium in your diet can lead to bone loss, because calcium is needed to neutralize excess acidity in the blood that occurs during the…
