Carbonated Water 'May Promote Weight Loss,' According to New Study

Mar. 15, 2025

Stock image of carbonated water.Photo:Getty

Getty

Plain seltzer water may give you aweight-lossadvantage over drinking still water — and it’s all because of the bubbles.

The weight-loss benefit is “so small that it is difficult to expect weight loss effects solely from the CO2 in carbonated water,” the study says. Furthermore, for some people, seltzer and other carbonated beverages can cause bloating or gas — and for those who struggle with digestive disorders likeirritable bowel syndromeandgastroesophageal reflux disease(GERD), the fizzy beverages can exacerbate their symptoms.

Stock image of a glass of still water and a glass of sparkling, carbonated water.Getty

This doesn’t mean you can start swigging justanydrink with bubbles. The study focused on plain carbonated water. Diet or artificially sweetened soda has beenlinked to heart problems, and a can of regular soda can have as many as140 calories.

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Stock image of a glass of sparkling water.Getty

“The CO2 in carbonated water may support weight loss,” Takahashi writes, but “it should be integrated into a broader strategy of healthy living rather than relied on as a primary weight loss tool.”

“A balanced diet and regular physical activity remain crucial components of sustainable weight management.”

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source: people.com