Fizzy water shown to boost metabolism and support weight loss in new BMJ study

Fizzy water may help with weight loss by improving blood glucose uptake and metabolism, but the effects are too small to rely on alone, according to new research published in BMJ Nutrition Prevention & Health.

The analysis suggests that while carbonated water can feel filling and potentially speed up digestion, it cannot replace the fundamentals of weight management.

Regular physical activity and a balanced diet remain essential for sustainable weight loss.

The research compares drinking fizzy water to the process of haemodialysis, where blood is filtered when kidneys fail.

Carbon dioxide from carbonated water is absorbed through the stomach lining and converts to bicarbonate in red blood cells, creating an alkaline effect.

This alkalinisation process accelerates glucose absorption and utilisation by activating key enzymes in red blood cells.

During a typical four-hour haemodialysis session, around 48,000 ml of blood flows through the dialyser, resulting in just 9.5g of glucose being used.

This minimal glucose reduction demonstrates why carbonated water’s impact cannot be considered a standalone solution for weight loss.

“Given this minimal glucose reduction, the impact of CO in carbonated water is not a standalone solution for weight loss,” the study author emphasises.

The study warns that drinking carbonated water can cause digestive issues, particularly for those with sensitive stomachs or conditions like irritable bowel syndrome.

Professor Sumantra Ray, Executive Director of NNEdPro Global Institute, cautions that while there is a theoretical link between carbonated water and glucose metabolism, more research is needed.

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“Any potential benefits must be weighed up against the potential harms of carbonated drinks which may contain sodium, glucose, or other additives,” he added.

The research emphasises that moderation is key when consuming carbonated water to avoid digestive discomfort while potentially gaining metabolic benefits.

A balanced diet and regular physical activity remain the cornerstone of sustainable weight management, with fizzy water playing only a minor supporting role.

The long-term effects of drinking large amounts of carbonated water are still unknown, highlighting the need for cautious consumption.