The healthiness of flavoured mineral water depends heavily on its ingredients, with unflavored and unsweetened options generally being the healthiest choice.
Understanding Flavoured Mineral Water
Flavoured mineral water can range from naturally flavoured with fruit essences to artificially sweetened versions. This variation significantly affects its health profile.
The Impact of Added Sugar
- Unwanted Sugar: Many flavoured sparkling waters contain added sugars, contributing to excess calorie intake and potential health issues.
- Tooth Decay: The high sugar content in some flavoured waters can also lead to tooth decay.
- Reference Information: According to the provided reference, "some sweetened sparkling waters and seltzers can add unwanted sugar to your diet. Sparkling waters that are high in sugar can cause tooth decay".
Healthier Alternatives
- Unflavored Sparkling Water: Opting for unflavored mineral water is the healthiest choice, as it contains no added sugars or artificial sweeteners.
- Naturally Flavoured Options: Some brands use natural fruit essences for flavouring, which are a better alternative to artificial sweeteners but may still contain some sugars. However, it's important to check the label.
Choosing the Right Mineral Water
| Feature | Healthiest Choice | Less Healthy Options |
|---|---|---|
| Flavour | Unflavored | Artificially flavoured and sweetened |
| Sweeteners | None | Added sugars, artificial sweeteners |
| Additives | None | Artificial flavouring and colouring |
Key Takeaways
- Read Labels Carefully: Always check the ingredient list and nutritional information for added sugars, artificial sweeteners, and other additives.
- Prioritize Unsweetened: If possible, choose unflavored or naturally flavoured mineral water without added sugars.
- Moderation is Key: Even naturally flavoured options should be consumed in moderation as their sugar content can contribute to tooth decay or other health problems when ingested in excess.
Flavoured mineral water can be a refreshing alternative to sugary drinks. But as outlined above, its healthiness varies widely. Choosing unsweetened, unflavoured sparkling water is best for health.
