A recent report published in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health suggests that drinking sparkling water might contribute to weight loss. The study, authored by Akira Takahashi, proposes that carbonated water can enhance red blood cell uptake and glucose metabolism. However, this theoretical study emphasizes the need for clinical research comparing the effects of carbonated versus non-carbonated water on weight loss. Experts like Dr. Mir Ali, a board-certified general and bariatric surgeon, have shown interest in these findings, though they caution the necessity of further human trials to confirm any potential benefits.
The study highlights the potential role of carbonated water in boosting glucose metabolism and increasing red blood cell uptake. Drinking carbonated water may provide temporary glucose consumption near the stomach, as noted by Takahashi. This process involves CO₂ absorption into the blood vessels in the stomach, where it penetrates the lipid membranes of red blood cells. The CO₂ converts into bicarbonate ions, increasing alkalinity and promoting glycolysis, which in turn consumes glucose in red blood cells.
“When carbonated water is consumed, CO₂ is absorbed into the blood vessels in the stomach. This CO₂ rapidly penetrates the lipid membranes of red blood cells and is converted into bicarbonate ions by carbonic anhydrase, increasing the alkalinity of the red blood cells. This alkalinity promotes glycolysis, which consumes glucose in red blood cells and lowers blood glucose levels.”— Akira Takahashi, report author
Despite these promising insights, the study remains theoretical. Dr. Mir Ali pointed out that while carbonated water might have temporary effects on glucose consumption, its impact on weight loss needs validation through clinical research.
“This is an interesting study, though it is theoretical and requires clinical research in people comparing consumption of carbonated water vs non-carbonated water. If studies in humans show a benefit of carbonated water, then it may be an adjunct to a healthy diet.”— Mir Ali, MD
To verify Takahashi's findings, follow-up studies using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) to measure blood glucose levels before and after consuming carbonated water would be beneficial. Such studies could shed light on whether sparkling water can truly be a useful tool for weight loss.
In contrast, Mir Ali expressed skepticism regarding the direct contribution of carbonated water to weight loss. He highlighted that during a four-hour session of hemodialysis, only about 9.5g of glucose is consumed. Since carbonated water provides CO₂ for a much shorter period than hemodialysis, its effect on glucose consumption is deemed negligible.
“During a four-hour session of hemodialysis, only about 9.5g of glucose is consumed. Since drinking carbonated water provides CO₂ for a much shorter period than hemodialysis, its effect on glucose consumption is negligible and does not contribute to weight loss.”— Mir Ali, MD
While some studies suggest that carbonated water may aid in constipation relief, its potential benefits for weight loss remain largely unknown.
“The potential benefits are largely unknown, though there have been some studies that show carbonated water may aid in constipation relief,” — Mir Ali, MD
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