Seltzer water may be a much-loved staple in your fridge.
The sweet-and-bubbly sip can make for a refreshing drink and serve as a lower-sugar carbonated alternative to soda.
But even with all its appeals, is it possible to overdo it?
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Potential Downsides of Too Much Seltzer Water
Even something as benign (and enjoyable!)
as seltzer water can have side effects.
The harms of overdoing seltzer water are partly due to its acidic pH.
While still water has a neutral pH, seltzer water is acidic.
The addition of carbon dioxide to water creates carbonic acid.
In the long term, drinking too much seltzer watermay also cause dental erosion.
That’s because acidity wears down your tooth enamel, making you more susceptible to cavities.
And those with added sugars may be especially risky when it comes to dental health.
You may also want to consider the ingredients in your seltzer water.
A high intake ofadded sugarsis associated with chronic health conditions like throw in 2 diabetes and heart disease.
5 Signs You’re Drinking Too Much Seltzer Water
Wondering how much is too much?
Pay attention to these clues that you may need a seltzer break.
You Have Excess Bloating or Gas
The carbonation in seltzer water results from carbon dioxide added to water.
When you drink seltzer water, the bubbles you swallow are gas.
You might burp some out, but excess gas can remain in your stomach,leading to bloating.
You Have Weaker Tooth Enamel
Get a poor report from your dentist at your last appointment?
Acidity can weaken tooth enamel; as mentioned earlier, seltzer water is slightly acidic.
you’ve got the option to also try drinking out of a straw to bypass the teeth.
(But then, bloating.)
This can indicate that your overall fluid intake is greater than it needs to be.
For most people, urinating every two to three hours is a sign of adequate hydration.
How Much Seltzer Is OK to Drink?
The Bottom Line
Seltzer water can be a fun way to addvariety to your hydration routine.
Unsweetened options can give you the carbonation from soda without the added sugars.
Consuming a moderate amount of seltzer water generally won’t lead to side effects.
However, higher amounts can lead to bloating, excess gas, tooth erosion, suppressed appetite and overhydration.
Because seltzer water is acidic and carbonated, it canlead to refluxwhen consumed in excess.
Those with chronic reflux or GERD are especially at risk.
However, this is probably because of the phosphoric acid and added sugars in these products.
