Carbonated water is a refreshing beverage and good alternative to sugary soft drinks.

However, some people are concerned that it may be bad for your health.

This article takes a detailed look at the health effects of carbonated water.

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What is carbonated water?

Carbonated water is water that has been infused with carbon dioxide gas under pressure.

This produces a bubbly drink that's also known as sparkling water, club soda, soda water, seltzer water, and fizzy water.

Apart from seltzer water, carbonated waters usually have salt added to improve their taste. Sometimes small amounts of other minerals are included.

Natural sparkling mineral waters, such as Perrier and San Pellegrino, are different.

These waters are captured from a mineral spring and tend to contain minerals and sulfur compounds. They are often carbonated as well.

Tonic water is a form of carbonated water that contains a bitter compound called quinine, along with sugar or high-fructose corn syrup.

SUMMARYCarbonated water combines water and carbon dioxide under pressure. Sodium and other minerals are often added.

Carbonated water is acidic

Carbon dioxide and water react chemically to produce carbonic acid, a weak acid that's been shown to stimulate the same nerve receptors in your mouth as mustard.

This triggers a burning, prickly sensation that can be both irritating and enjoyable 

The pH of carbonated water is 3–4, which means it's slightly acidic.

However, drinking an acidic beverage like carbonated water does not make your body more acidic.

Your kidneys and lungs remove excess carbon dioxide. This keeps your blood at a slightly alkaline pH of 7.35–7.45 regardless of what you eat or drink.

SUMMARYCarbonated water is acidic, but your body should maintain a stable, slightly alkaline pH no matter what you consume.