When it comes time to fill your glass, the question seems trivial. However, between still water and sparkling water, certain differences can have an impact on digestion, mineral intake or even blood pressure. While both contribute effectively to hydration, they do not always meet the same needs. Dietitian Alexandra Retion explains in more detail what the differences are between the two and which one to favor.
Still or sparkling water, the differences that really matter
The main difference is in their composition. Some sparkling waters are particularly rich in minerals, particularly sodium. This is the case for certain references such as St-Yorre, which can contain up to 400 mg of sodium per liter.
For people suffering from hypertension or monitoring their salt intake, this detail is not trivial. Alexandra Retion therefore advises to “look at the labels“, reminding us that not all sparkling waters have the same characteristics. Brands like Perrier or San Pellegrino notably display much lower sodium contents.
Digestive comfort also comes into play. The presence of carbon dioxide can cause bloating in some people. According to the specialist, “you have to choose according to your personal tolerance“.
In what cases can sparkling water be useful?
Sparkling water isn’t just about taste preference. In certain specific situations, it may be of particular interest.
After significant physical effort, for example, the loss of sodium linked to perspiration may justify the use of sparkling water richer in salt. Alexandra Retion thus underlines that “this can sometimes be interesting for an athlete who has just completed a run and wants to rehydrate“.
Certain waters rich in bicarbonates or magnesium can also contribute to digestive comfort. The dietitian specifies that “for a person who is a little constipated, water a little richer in bicarbonate or magnesium can be interesting“.
However, these benefits remain linked to specific and one-off needs, rather than to systematic consumption.
Why still water remains the daily reference
For everyday hydration, still water has a special place. It does not contain gas that could cause digestive discomfort or excess sodium that could be a problem for some people.
Alexandra Retion insists on this point: “This is the only water that is important for hydrating our body“.
Sparkling water can continue to find its place in a balanced diet, but “it must be chosen carefully“, reminds the expert. For people affected by hypertension, her advice remains unambiguous: “And if you have a little high blood pressure, avoid those that are high in sodium, obviously“.