You may have heard of sparkling water, and you might have heard of classic seltzer. Do you know the difference between these two?
What is Sparkling Water?
The definition of sparkling water is pretty vague. It’s a general term that could refer to any form of water that has been carbonated.
For example, some people use the term “sparkling water” to refer only to naturally carbonated water, such as what comes from a spring or well. Others may use it interchangeably with seltzer and club soda.
Sparkling water is water that has been carbonated, either naturally through spring water or artificially through carbonation machines. It has a light, bubbly taste that is often enhanced with natural fruit flavors and is naturally calorie-free.
Sparkling water is also called mineral water and has no added flavors or sugars. It’s simply pure H2O that has been carbonated naturally by the water’s source. The bubbles come from gases trapped in rock formations deep underground, which are released when the water is brought to the surface.
What is Seltzer?
Seltzer is another type of carbonated water. It is made with artificially carbonated water and is sometimes flavored with artificial ingredients. It has more intense carbonation than sparkling water and is also often calorie-free- but that depends on the brand.
Is Sparkling Water or Seltzer Better For You?
Both sparkling water and seltzer are calorie-free, so they are equally healthy. However, sparkling water often contains natural flavors, while seltzer may contain artificial flavors and sweeteners. If you're looking for a healthier option, sparkling water may be the better choice.
In lieu of the sparkling and seltzer water rising popularity; we’ve seen a different (albeit similar) type of water based beverage rise to the surface: functional or ‘better’ beverages.
These functional beverages aim to provide an even healthier way of hitting your water goals. Some better beverages, like CENTR, have added Nootropics and Adaptogens to enhance your mental clarity and focus. Nootropics and adaptogens are not only added to sparkling water, they can be added to seltzers as well.
But what are Nootropics and Adaptogens?
Nootropics are substances that help the brain function at a higher level of productivity whereas adaptogens are derived from ancient plants and herbs and help the body deal with stress.
CENTR Enhanced and CENTR Enhanced+ are crafted with quality in mind, a premium better beverage with functional benefits to help you regain your center in the chaos of everyday life.
Why Do I Sometimes Prefer One Over the Other?
The taste of sparkling water and seltzer can vary greatly depending on the brand and flavors used. Some people prefer the light and refreshing taste of sparkling water, while others find the intense carbonation of seltzer more enjoyable.
It is also worth noting that sparkling water often contains electrolytes, which can help replenish your body after a workout or other strenuous activities. Seltzer does not contain electrolytes.
Understanding the differences between sparkling water and seltzer can help you make an informed decision when choosing your favorite.
Sparkling water is often made with natural flavors, while seltzer can contain artificial flavors and sweeteners. Sparkling water also often contains electrolytes, which can help replenish your body after a workout or other strenuous activities.
Are Hard Seltzers Bad for You?
Hard seltzers are a common alternative for people wanting to avoid drinking beer or hard alcohol. Although hard seltzer has fewer calories than beer, not all carbonated water drinks are created equal.
Some hard seltzers, such as those with added sugar or artificial chemicals, can increase calorie intake and contribute to tooth decay. They may also cause adverse reactions in people who have metabolic disorders like diabetes.
Here’s how to find a good sparkling water or seltzer:
We’ll give you a hint: It’s all on the label.
Flavored carbonated waters often contain artificial ingredients like aspartame or Splenda, but it's better to drink such water in small amounts.
Although these sweeteners may have fewer calories than regular sparkling water, more studies need to be done on the possible side effects of ingesting them for a prolonged period.
People should also be aware that carbonated water typically contains sodium. Each can may contain as much as 100 or 200 milligrams—a considerable amount if consumed regularly.
Carbonated waters are made with carbonic acid to create bubbles, but this won’t harm you because although carbonated water is slightly acidic, that shouldn't negatively affect a person's teeth.
Conclusion
Most people define sparkling water as water that is carbonated naturally. Where the carbonation comes from determines whether a beverage is a seltzer or a sparkling water. All seltzers and club sodas are artificially carbonated, whereas all sparkling water is carbonated naturally, straight from the source.
Seltzer is carbonated water that is often flavored with extracts of fruits or other ingredients. Sparkling water, which generally contains fewer calories than seltzer and no added flavors, gets its fizz from naturally occurring sources like bubbles in the source or base liquid (such as natural underground springs).
If you’re looking for a new sparkling water to add to your daily life, head on over to the CENTR store and find your CENTR today.
