Carbonated water may play a role in weight loss
Blake Wisz, Unsplash
A new study published in the journal BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health suggests that carbonated water may slightly stimulate metabolism and lower blood glucose levels. According to study author Dr Akira Takahashi from Japan's Tessekai Hospital, this effect is due to the absorption of CO2 by the stomach walls, which helps improve glucose absorption.
However, this is far from a panacea. Dr Takahashi stresses that a balanced diet and regular physical activity are still necessary for sustainable weight control.
Experts, such as Professor Keith Frayn from Oxford University, are sceptical. He notes that the presented study is rather theoretical and is not supported by experimental data. According to him, even if carbonated water affects glucose levels, it does not mean that it contributes to noticeable weight loss.
Frayn also added that the possible effect of carbonated water on weight loss may be related to the feeling of satiety rather than metabolic processes. Moreover, carbonated water can cause side effects such as bloating and digestive disorders, especially in people with sensitive gastrointestinal tracts.
