Whats the difference between mineral water and sparkling water

From seltzer to mineral water, there’s no shortage of hydration with a twist of flavor both on the shelves and on our feeds. But, if you’re anything like us during this thirst-quenching movement, you might have found yourself wondering which fizzy third quencher is the healthier option while cracking open another can (we just can’t stop drinking them!). Ahead, we investigate mineral water vs. seltzer water to find out the benefits of each, plus which one has a more positive impact on our health.

What Is Mineral Water?

Mineral water is derived from underground reservoirs and doesn’t go through chemical processing like regular drinking water. While we might first consider mineral water to be sparkling, it is actually available in flat and sparkling. Much like its name suggests, mineral water contains a lot of minerals, specifically magnesium sulfate, calcium carbonate and potassium, which is a “similar amount of minerals as natural water sources,” says Sabrina Russo, a registered dietitian based in New York. “The water must contain at least 250 parts dissolved minerals per one million units of water to be classified as mineral water,” she adds.

Whats the difference between mineral water and sparkling water

As far as the health benefits of mineral water are concerned, Russo says the magnesium found in mineral water (and in general) “can help lower blood pressure, regulate circulation, and aid in digestive health.” Calcium is known to help strengthen bones and can also help nerves and muscles function. Potassium aids in “nerve function and muscle contraction, as well as maintaining a regular heartbeat,” Russo adds.

What Is Seltzer Water?

Unlike mineral water, seltzer water typically doesn’t include minerals as those get filtered out during processing, much like regular drinking water. Many people find that seltzer tastes much more like “natural spring water” than sparkling mineral water or club soda. While mineral comes in flat and sparkling, Russo says seltzer is “always infused with carbon dioxide to create bubbles.” Seltzers often come with natural flavors like lemon or peach. This is not something that sparkling mineral water and club soda can do because the minerals take over the taste of the other waters.

The health benefits of seltzer start with hydration, as it is considered a great source for quenching thirst. It “can also benefit digestion and help you feel fuller, longer,” says Russo. In addition, seltzer is a great alternative to sugary, calorie-laden sodas.

Because of its fizz, Russo says “some individuals might feel gassy or bloated after drinking seltzer.” And, if you’re watching your salt intake, it’s a good idea to read the label. Seltzer water might be processed to remove minerals, but it still has some and is known to contain higher levels of sodium, which can add to overall salt intake. In addition to sodium, Heather Hanks, a nutritionist with Instapot Life, says store-bought seltzer “can have added flavors, sugars, oils, calories, or carbs.”

Mineral Water vs. Seltzer Water

While both mineral water and seltzer water have their health benefits — especially in terms of hydration — the minerals can provide electrolyte benefits. However, if you have a health condition, such as chronic kidney disease, that requires you to “limit mineral intake” in general.

Another reason why mineral water is considered healthier is because of seltzer sodium and carbonation. With mineral water, you have the option to select flat instead of bubble water, but seltzer is always fizzy, which can lead to bloating and gas.

Much like regular water, Hanks says seltzer hydrates the body, which can lead to “better skin, improved digestion, curbing hunger, and increased concentration levels.”  When shopping for seltzer water, Russo recommends looking for “options with the lowest sodium content and no natural or artificial sweeteners,” to reduce the impact of gassy side effects and unnecessary additional sugar (which can also impact health in a negative way). Hanks says to also be mindful of oils, flavors, and carbs as they “can contribute to weight gain and inflammation.”

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For a simple substance that contains only two elements, hydrogen and oxygen, water comes in a surprising number of forms. One major factor involved is the processing that takes place, such as in the cases of sparkling water and mineral water. Sparkling water and mineral water are healthy beverage choices for people trying to cut back on sugary sodas, alcohol or caffeine.

Sparkling Water

Sparkling water, also called seltzer, soda or tonic water, contains bubbles. When carbon dioxide gets infused in your water, little bubbles, called carbonation, form. Sparkling water must contain as much carbonation as it did when it came out of a natural spring. Its minerals usually get removed. Purchase sparkling water in individual bottles or in larger 2- and 3-liter bottles. To minimize waste, you can purchase your own sparkling water converter for home use.

Sparkling Water Uses

On its own, sparkling water constitutes a healthy, calorie-free beverage. If you like, add a few drops of lemon or lime juice for a bit of flavor. You can also purchase flavored sparkling water that includes sweetener and fruit flavoring. For more nutrition, add fruit juice to your water; apple, grape, orange, pineapple and passion fruit juices work well. You'll also find sparkling water in cocktail recipes for a wide range of drinks, from gin and tonics to Long Island iced teas.

Mineral Water

Mineral water has the same concentration of minerals that the water had at its original spring. Contrary to popular belief, processing cannot add minerals not already present. Some mineral waters contain carbonation while others do not, meaning that you may find sparkling mineral water at grocery stores. Mineral water must contain at least 250 parts dissolved minerals per million units of water. Further, minerals must maintain unchanging proportions identical to those found in the spring.

Mineral Water Uses

You may use sparkling mineral water as a substitute for sparkling water for drinking as well as in any recipe calling for sparkling water. Non-carbonated mineral water, on the hand, works well for mixing beverages that normally require no carbonation, such as lemonade or limeade. You may want to substitute the non-carbonated mineral water if carbonated beverages upset your stomach. Mineral water offers a good substitute for tap water when your water supply becomes contaminated.

Tips

Consumers report that the flavors of plain mineral water and sparkling water can vary. Try different products until you figure out which you like best. Also remember that the minerals in mineral water are not necessary and have no verifiable health benefits as opposed to any other kind of water. However, sparkling mineral water usually costs more than regular sparkling water. Unless you prefer the taste of the sparkling mineral water, your best bet is probably the cheaper water.

Writer Bio

Christina Lee began writing in 2004. Her co-authored essay is included in the edited volume, "Discipline and Punishment in Global Affairs." Lee holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and politics from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, a Master of Arts in global affairs from American University and a Master of Arts in philosophy from Penn State University.

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Which is better mineral or sparkling water?

Another reason why mineral water is considered healthier is because of seltzer sodium and carbonation. With mineral water, you have the option to select flat instead of bubble water, but seltzer is always fizzy, which can lead to bloating and gas.

Is mineral water and sparkling the same?

Mineral water typically comes directly from the source of natural springs. While not all mineral water is “sparkling”, the bubbly varieties get their effervescence from naturally-occurring gases. After mineral water is bottled, more carbon dioxide may be added artificially by manufacturers.

Which is healthier soda water or sparkling mineral water?

There is no difference between soda water and sparkling water, both are simply water that has been carbonated with added gas to become fizzy. Soda water has other names, including fizzy water, club soda, seltzer water, and water with gas.

Is it OK to drink sparkling mineral water everyday?

No evidence suggests that carbonated or sparkling water is bad for you. It's not that harmful to dental health, and it seems to have no effect on bone health. Interestingly, a carbonated drink may even enhance digestion by improving swallowing ability and reducing constipation.