Who should avoid carbonated water: doctors' warnings

Who should avoid carbonated water: doctors' warnings

Soda water has long become a familiar drink for many people - it is served in restaurants, bought in stores and even consumed as an alternative to regular water. However, doctors warn: not everyone should regularly drink this drink, even if it is ordinary table carbonated water without sugar. There are categories of people for whom carbonated water can harm their health, causing or exacerbating certain symptoms and diseases.

First of all, doctors do not recommend drinking carbonated water to people suffering from gastrointestinal diseases. In particular, with gastritis, peptic ulcer, irritable bowel syndrome or reflux (GERD), drinking carbonated drinks can lead to increased pain, bloating, heartburn and other unpleasant symptoms. The carbon dioxide contained in the drink irritates the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines, increasing inflammatory processes.

Also, carbonated water is contraindicated for people with increased gas formation and a tendency to flatulence. It can only aggravate these symptoms, causing discomfort, abdominal rumbling, bloating and pressure in the stomach. This is especially true for people who already have problems with fermentation or the functioning of the intestinal microflora.

It is equally important to avoid carbonated water for people with heart disease and arterial hypertension. In the case of mineral carbonated water, which contains an increased level of sodium, fluid retention in the body may occur, which complicates the work of the heart and increases blood pressure. This is especially dangerous for people who are advised by doctors to limit their salt intake.

Another risk group is people with kidney problems. The excess minerals in certain types of carbonated water can create an additional burden on the kidneys and even contribute to the formation of stones. Those who have already had cases of urolithiasis should be especially careful.

It is also worth considering that regular use of even “healthy” carbonated water without sugar can have unexpected consequences. Carbon dioxide changes the acid-base balance in the stomach, and with prolonged use can disrupt the normal functioning of the digestive system. In addition, frequent consumption of carbonated drinks (including those with flavors) can reduce appetite or, conversely, cause a feeling of hunger due to stretching the walls of the stomach.

Thus, although carbonated water may seem like a safe alternative to other drinks, it is far from universal. People with certain chronic diseases or a tendency to stomach, heart or kidney problems should consult a doctor before introducing it into their diet on a permanent basis.