You’ve swapped soda for sparkling water to get healthy—but are you accidentally drinking hidden sodium, “natural flavors,” or tooth-eroding acids? Not all bubbly waters are created equal. Here’s an answer-first guide ranking the healthiest sparkling water brands based on ingredients, PFAS levels, and mineral content. We’ll help you spot the “fake healthy” options so you can sip risk-free.

The 3 Rules for a “Healthy” Sparkler

When choosing a brand for your daily hydration goals, scan the label for these three things:

• Zero Sodium: Many Club Sodas add salt to mimic mineral water. Drinking 3-4 cans a day can silently spike your blood pressure.
• No “Natural Flavors” Mystery: While FDA-approved, “natural flavors” is a catch-all term. Brands using real fruit juice (like Spindrift) are more transparent.
• PFAS Levels: Some carbonated waters have tested higher for PFAS (“forever chemicals”) than tap water. Brands that use reverse osmosis filtration before carbonating (like Polar) tend to be safer.

Ranked: Best & Worst Brands for Health

Glass vs. Can vs. Plastic: Does It Matter?

The health of your water isn’t just about the liquid; it’s about what holds it. Carbonated water is slightly acidic, which can pull chemicals from containers more aggressively than still water.

1. Glass (Best): Inert. No leaching. Brands like Mountain Valley or San Pellegrino in glass are the gold standard.
2. Aluminum Cans (Good): Most cans have BPA-free liners now (using BP-NI coatings), but acidic beverages can still interact with liners over long periods.
3. Plastic Bottles (Worst): As discussed in our plastic bottle safety guide, microplastics and chemical leaching are higher here, especially if the bottle gets warm.

A Note on Your Teeth

Even the healthiest sparkling water is acidic (pH 3–4). While it’s much better than soda (pH 2.5), sipping it all day long can soften tooth enamel. To protect your smile while staying hydrated:

• Drink plain water in between sparkling cans.
• Drink it with meals (saliva helps neutralize acid).
• Use a straw to bypass the teeth.

Still confused about the different types? Read our full breakdown: Which Sparkling Water Should I Drink? (Seltzer vs Club Soda vs Tonic).

FAQs

Does sparkling mineral water cause kidney stones?

Generally, no. In fact, some mineral waters rich in magnesium and calcium may actually prevent certain types of stones. However, stay hydrated with plain water too.

Is Spindrift healthy?

Yes. Because Spindrift uses real squeezed fruit (lemon, lime, raspberry), you get a trace amount of sugar (1-3g) but avoid artificial “essences.” It is considered one of the cleanest flavored options.

Does carbonation make you bloated?

It can. Swallowing gas (CO2) can cause temporary bloating. If you have IBS or sensitive digestion, stick to still water or degas your sparkling water slightly before drinking.

Is LaCroix bad for you?

No, LaCroix is free of sugars, sodium, and artificial sweeteners. It is a safe daily drinker, though some people prefer brands that disclose exactly what their “natural flavor” is derived from.

References

• Consumer Reports — PFAS in Carbonated Water
• American Dental Association — Erosive Tooth Wear & Acids
• USDA FoodData Central

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