The CO2 found in this drink could have some unexpected health benefits
A type of fizzy drink could assist with aid weight loss efforts and help the body process sugar, research has found. According to a new study, the carbonation in sparkling water could have some surprising health benefits.
Sparking water is already considered a healthier option than sugary sodas. And previous findings have suggested that sparkling water can help us feel fuller for longer and reduce hunger pangs.
But this new study, published in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health, considered how the carbon dioxide (CO2), the gas that creates those bubbles, interacts with our blood cells. Researchers at Japan’s Tesseikai Neurosurgery Hospital discovered that this CO2 gets absorbed into our bloodstream through the stomach wall.
When it collides with the red blood cells that are there, an enzyme in the cells transforms the CO2 into bicarbonate. This creates a slightly more alkaline environment, which appears to activate certain enzymes involved in processing sugar.
As part of the study, the team compared this process to what happens during kidney dialysis treatments. As blood passes through a special filtering machine in dialysis, sugar levels drop from about 118 mg/dL to 99 mg/dL, despite the fact the surrounding fluid has more sugar in it.
This process involves similar CO2 mechanisms to that found in drinking sparkling water, suggesting that it helps the body use sugar more efficiently. However, the team noted that the effects on blood sugar are small.
After four hours of dialysis processing around 50 litres of blood, it only uses up about 9.5 grams of sugar – the equivalent to a tablespoon. CO2 from a glass of sparkling water would have an even smaller effect.
Study authors wrote: “Given this minimal glucose reduction, the impact of CO2 in carbonated water is not a standalone solution for weight loss. A balanced diet and regular physical activity remain crucial components of sustainable weight management.”
It is also important to consider the potentially harmful additives in sparkling drinks. Professor Sumantra Ray, executive director of NNEdPro Global Institute for Food, Nutrition and Health – which owns the journal – commented: “While there is a hypothetical link between carbonated water and glucose metabolism this has yet to be tested in well designed human intervention studies.
“And although this study adds to the evidence base, it doesn’t provide sufficient evidence on which to make recommendations for the preventive or therapeutic use of carbonated water. Additionally, any potential benefits must be weighed up against the potential harms of carbonated drinks which may contain sodium, glucose, or other additives.”
On top of this, the study also found a link between the amount of CO2 in someone’s breath and their blood sugar levels, suggesting that drinking carbonated beverages might temporarily distort blood sugar readings. This could be especially pertinent to those who frequently monitor their blood sugar levels.
Study authors concluded that additional weight loss methods are needed alongside drinking sparkling water. Not only this but further tests on the subject are needed, they said.
“CO2 in carbonated water may promote weight loss by enhancing glucose uptake and metabolism in red blood cells,” they wrote. “However, the amount is so small that it is difficult to expect weight loss effects solely from the CO2 in carbonated water.
“Drinking carbonated water may also affect blood glucose measurements. Further studies are needed to explore its long-term effects and potential side effects.”
To lose weight safely and successfully, the NHS advises you:
- Do not stock unhealthy food – popcorn, fruit and rice cakes can be healthier alternatives
- Swap sugary drinks for water – if you do not like the taste, add slices of lemon or lime for flavour
- Get active for 150 minutes a week – you can break this up into shorter sessions
- Do not skip meals – you might end up snacking more because you feel hungry
- Aim to lose 1 to 2lbs, or 0.5 to 1kg, a week
- Do not finish your plate if you’re full – you can save leftover food for the next day
- Share your weight loss plan with someone you trust – they can help motivate you when you have a bad day
- Read food labels – products with more green colour coding than amber and red are often a healthier option
- Aim to get your five-a-day – 80g of fresh, canned or frozen fruit or vegetables count as one portion
- Cut down on food that’s high in sugar and fat – start by swapping sugary cereal for wholegrain alternatives
- Do not lose weight suddenly with diets
If you are concerned about your weight you should speak to your GP.