New scientific lighting relaunches the debate on sparkling water and weight loss. In Japan, a study published in the journal BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health reveals that its consumption could temporarily change blood pH and slightly reduce blood sugar, which, in theory, would promote the combustion of fats between meals. But this discovery is not enough to make gas water an undeniable slimming ally.
What evidence for the effect on blood sugar and metabolism?
Already in 2017, rats experiences suggested that carbonated drinks increased the production of Ghrelin, this famous “hunger hormone”. British specialists dispute these effects in humans.
The main study of the study, Dr. Akira Takahashi, explains: “When sparkling water is consumed, CO2 is absorbed by the blood vessels of the stomach“. He continues:”Once in the blood, CO2 is quickly transformed into bicarbonate ions… This conversion then makes the red blood cells more alkaline. And this increased alkalinity accelerates the process of glucose consumption in red blood cells, thus reducing glucose levels“This effect remains transient, however, and does not mean that the organism completely burns glucose.
Its role on satiety and limits
For Professor Keith Frayn, “Red blood cells cannot “burn ‘glucose completely, and it will be recycled by the liver”. According to him, if an impact on the weight exists, it would be “Much more probably through effects on the feeling of satiety“. Dr. Takahashi also underlines:”It is therefore unlikely that sparkling water alone contributes significantly to weight loss“. Researchers insist that a balanced diet and regular physical activity remain essential.
What it means if you are looking to lose weight
Sparkling water has no miracle effect: its profits are limited and temporary. On the other hand, it can be an interesting alternative to sugary drinks, reducing the caloric contribution and helping to better manage hunger between meals.