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From the Journals

Carbonated Water Found to Lower Blood Glucose

Consumption leads to "a significant decrease in blood glucose levels as blood passes through the dialyzer."

Conexiant

Carbonated water may modestly contribute to weight loss by enhancing glucose metabolism in red blood cells.

New research has revealed that when carbonated water is consumed, carbon dioxide (CO2) enters the bloodstream through the stomach lining and is converted to bicarbonate by carbonic anhydrase in red blood cells. The process increases intracellular pH, and stimulates anaerobic glycolysis, leading to higher glucose utilization.

"While these findings suggest that carbonated water may indirectly promote weight loss by enhancing anaerobic glycolysis and glucose utilization, it is crucial to approach these effects in context," wrote study author Akira Takahashi, MD, of the Dialysis Center at Tesseikai Neurosurgery Hospital in Japan in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health. 

During hemodialysis, blood glucose levels decreased from 118.3 mg/dL to 98.6 mg/dL after passing through the dialyzer, despite the dialysate having a glucose concentration of approximately 105.0 mg/dL. "Clinical observations during hemodialysis support this mechanism, showing a significant decrease in blood glucose levels as blood passes through the dialyzer," wrote Takahashi and colleagues. However, the researchers noted that while measurable, the effect results in minimal glucose reduction, making it unlikely that carbonated water alone would have a meaningful impact on weight loss.

To put the minimal effect in perspective, Takahashi and colleagues calculated that during a typical 4-hour hemodialysis session processing 48,000 mL of blood, about 9.5 g of glucose was consumed through this mechanism. The amount consumed from carbonated water would be substantially less.

The research also identified potential considerations for clinical practice. "Recent reports have shown that there is a clear positive correlation between the concentration of carbon dioxide in the breath and blood glucose levels," the researchers noted. "Therefore, although the calorie consumption from CO2 is small when drinking carbonated water, there is a possibility of a temporary decrease in blood glucose levels, and there may be an effect if blood glucose levels are measured while drinking carbonated drinks."

Carbonated water could negatively impact the digestive system, particularly in patients with sensitive stomachs or pre-existing gastrointestinal conditions. Side effects might include bloating, gas, and potential exacerbation of symptoms in patients with irritable bowel syndrome or gastroesophageal reflux disease.

The reseachers declared no competing interests.