Differences Between Soda Water And Tonic Water

Soda water and tonic water are similar in appearance but quite different in many ways. Both these drinks are popular carbonated water with imparted flavor. It is mainly used to mix drinks. However, tonic water contains quinine which is ingrained with many medicinal benefits. It also contains sugar which gives the drink a sweet and bitter flavor. Tonic water has medicinal benefits and calories whereas soda water is simple carbonated water.

Soda water contains sodium bicarbonate and traces of potassium sulfate and it seldom includes any type of medicinal benefits. It is used to mix and dilute strong alcohols. It was developed in the year 1767 by Joseph Priestley. He discovered carbonated water and its significant usage. In the earlier days, consumption of alcohol was considered impolite. But with the invention of carbonated water, people began to consume alcohol by diluting it with carbonated drinks.

Tonic water was developed by the British in the 19th century. It was mainly developed as a cure for malaria. As quinine was the active ingredient in tonic water, it tasted quite bitter. However, the British added sugar and gin to create a bitter sweet drink. Many people enjoy this drink for its distinctive taste. Today tonic water seldom contains large amounts of quinine.

Tonic water contains sugar or corn syrup, natural flavorings, carbonated water, sodium benzoate and quinine. The ingredients may vary from one company to another. Soda water contains carbonated water, sodium bicarbonate, potassium sulfate and sodium chloride.

Health Issues and Carbonated Water:

Although carbonated water adds fizz to your drinks and beverages, it can cause health problems. It can affect your stomach, teeth and overall metabolism.

Gastrointestinal problems: Carbonated beverages are known to create gastric problems and delay the healing of stomach ulcers and other health issues. Carbonated drinks such as wine, beer, mineral water and soda can cause irritation in the internal parts of the stomach. It can also delay the recovery of ulcers.

Teeth: Regular consumption of carbonated water can also cause tooth decay. Consumption of soda and other carbonated drinks can affect your gums and teeth. It can lead to tooth decay and complete replacement of teeth. According to recent surveys, excessive consumption of carbonated drinks can cause tooth erosion as it lowers the PH levels in the mouth. It can slowly destroy the tooth enamel causing irrevocable damages to the teeth and gum.

Most of the carbonated drinks contain phosphoric acid which can be linked directly to health problems. Regular consumption of carbonated water can also cause osteoporosis as it contains phosphoric acid. Phosphoric acid is mainly used as an ingredient in pesticides, pharmaceuticals and detergents. It is also used as water softeners to remove magnesium and calcium from hard water.

Carbonated drinks also contain many other added ingredients such as sugar, salt, minerals, vitamins, artificial flavors, nutrients and sweeteners. Most of these beverages are consumed by people as it is carbonated. This would lead to more consumption of beverages with ingredients which are unhealthy and unsafe.