Pop the bubbly....water that is.

Happy New Year- POP THE BUBBLY….water that is!

So you’ve decided that improving your hydration status is going to be one of your New Year’s resolutions, but you’ve never been super keen on consuming excessive amounts of plain ole’ boring water. Well there’s good news for you; adding a refreshing bubbly water beverage to your diet might just be the thing you need to shake things up - just don’t shake those bottles too much J Properly hydrating your body will increase concentration, regulate proper heart and kidney function as well as body temperature, increase skin elasticity, decrease the risk of constipation and may help aid digestion and help settle upset stomachs.

First and foremost, the main difference between these fizzy waters is taste (with the exception of tonic water) as most of the waters have simply been infused with carbon dioxide to become carbonated. Below is a list of the most common bubbly water options including sparkling water, mineral water, seltzer water, club soda, and tonic water, tapping into the differences a bit more to clear up any confusion.

Sparkling Mineral Water- Mineral water is completely natural effervescent water with the carbonation coming from naturally-occurring salts and sulfur compounds. Minerals aren't added to this water and neither is carbonation. Most popular brands include Perrier and San Pellegrino which is why you would typically drink this water as is (not mixed in a cocktail), since it’s a tad expensive and has a slight mineral taste.

Seltzer Water- Take plain water, carbonate it and you’ve got seltzer water! It contains no sodium salts, artificial flavors or coloring and is calorie free. Store brands are less expensive than other brands and are the most economical of the carbonated waters to purchase.

Club Soda- Contains many of the same compounds that naturally occur in mineral water, but mineral-like ingredients are added to club soda to enhance the flavor. If you look on the list of ingredients, you'll likely see potassium bicarbonate and potassium sulfate listed lending a slightly salty taste.

Tonic Water- Unlike every other water on this list just because it contains the word water in its name and is carbonated doesn't mean that tonic water is in the same category as bubbly waters. Unlike the other carbonated options, tonic water has a distinct flavor as it is sweetened (usually with corn syrup) and infused with quinine and is much higher in calories (130calories per 12 fl oz)

Still in need of some flavor? I recommend adding some fresh fruit or herbs to enhance the flavor like lemon, lime, orange slices, grapefruit, watermelon, mint, and surprisingly cilantro!

The bottom line is that getting the daily dose of water is vital to your health (half your body weight in pounds = recommended ounces of water to drink a day), so whether its tap water, bubbly water, or fruit infused water- drink up!

Happy New Year! Have a happy, healthy 2016!