Phosphoric acid to blame for enamel depletion from fizzy drinks

In recent years mineral water has seen a drastic growth in popularity. Registered dietitian Laura Wild said the carbonation in popular sparkling water beverages could damage consumers' teeth and cause other health issues.

“Carbonated beverages can cause demineralization, especially of our tooth enamel,” she said.

Phosphoric acid is used to carbonate beverages. Phosphorus is a mineral already found in human teeth, but when it’s an acid, it can deplete the calcium in the enamel substrate, Wild said.

Wild has been teaching nutrition for the past 20 years. She said another issue with carbonation is that it fills consumers stomachs with air, leaving them full but less hydrated compared to drinking flat water.

According to Wild, using diet sodas and flavored water as an alternative to sugary sodas isn’t the most effective way for dieters to curb cravings. If the water is flavored, she said this can induce the feeling of the need to eat.

Wild suggested drinking carbonated drinks a couple of times per week rather than daily.