Sparkling water, or carbonated water, is infused with carbon dioxide (CO2). Researchers have shown interest in its potential health effects, including its possible role in weight loss.
A BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health publication explored how sparkling water might assist with weight loss. It proposed that the CO2 in the water could enhance glucose metabolism by promoting glucose breakdown and increasing glucose absorption by red blood cells. These changes might contribute to weight loss.
However, the report emphasized that sparkling water’s impact on weight loss is minimal and unlikely to be significant on its own. Additional studies are needed to confirm these findings.
The report outlined potential ways sparkling water might aid in weight loss. For instance, drinking it may promote a sense of fullness. It also suggested a possible link to reduced blood sugar levels, though the exact mechanisms remain unclear. The report’s primary focus was the connection between blood sugar regulation and sparkling water consumption.
CO2 from sparkling water
Once consumed, the CO2 from sparkling water is absorbed into the bloodstream through the stomach’s capillaries. Within red blood cells, the enzyme carbonic anhydrase converts CO2 into bicarbonate (HCO3-), which increases the cells’ alkalinity. This pH shift drives glucose breakdown through glycolysis, a process that produces energy.
This mechanism is thought to encourage glucose breakdown and increase glucose uptake from the plasma. The report compared this process to the blood sugar reduction observed during hemodialysis, which filters the blood. It referenced earlier research from 2004, which examined how hemodialysis could lower blood sugar levels.
Akira Takahashi, the report’s author and a researcher at the Dialysis Center at Tesseikai Neurosurgery Hospital in Japan, explained the findings. He stated that CO2 absorption leads to changes in red blood cells that promote glucose consumption and reduce blood glucose levels.
While the study offered insights into how sparkling water might influence weight loss, its conclusions were based on limited data. The research relied on theoretical models and referenced older studies, highlighting the need for updated and comprehensive research.
The report stressed that CO2 reduces the acidity inside red blood cells, facilitating glucose breakdown and absorption. However, future studies may reveal additional factors or alternative explanations. Research should also focus on sparkling water consumption’s potential side effects and long-term impacts.
Clinical trials Needed
Dr. Mir Ali, a bariatric surgeon and medical director at MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center, commented on the study, calling it intriguing but theoretical. He noted the need for clinical trials comparing carbonated and non-carbonated human water. If proven effective, sparkling water could complement a healthy diet but should not replace other weight loss strategies.
Dr Ali also mentioned the potential benefits and drawbacks of sparkling water. While some studies suggest it may relieve constipation, side effects such as bloating and gas are common.
The report concluded that sparkling water’s contribution to weight loss is negligible. Takahashi compared it to hemodialysis, which consumes approximately 9.5 grams of glucose during a four-hour session. Since sparkling water provides CO2 for a much shorter duration, its effect on glucose metabolism is minimal and unlikely to influence weight loss significantly.
The report underscored the importance of a balanced diet and regular exercise as primary weight loss strategies. It also cautioned that excessive sparkling water intake could disrupt digestion and cause temporary drops in blood sugar, potentially affecting glucose measurements.
Takahashi added that testing blood sugar immediately after drinking sparkling water could lead to a lower reading, which might misrepresent actual glucose levels.
