3 Best Healthy Flavored Waters of 2024 (Dietitian-Reviewed)

Flavored waters are made from either sparkling or plain water. Sparkling water, also known as carbonated water, is simply water infused with pressurized carbon dioxide. It's fizzy and bubbly and perfect to combat the summer heat. However, sparkling water may contain additives and artificial flavors, so you'll want to check the label before buying.

Sparkling water has been said to have health benefits different from still water. For instance, if you have an upset stomach, drinking a glass of sparkling water can help change the acid levels in your stomach, which in turn may help to soothe your nausea.

If you have concerns about bloating, then sparkling water may not be the best for you, but if you love that feeling of drinking something fizzy, sparkling water is a great alternative to regular soft drinks!

Still water doesn't have carbonation and is a great option if you're not a fan of fizz. Still water and sparkling water actually provide much of the same benefits in terms of hydration.  

However, still water often has more beneficial minerals in it, as these are often removed during the carbonation process that creates sparkling water. That doesn't negate the digestive benefits of sparkling water, though. Both sparkling water and still water have benefits, so we recommend the option that encourages you to drink more. 

The reason why so many people go for flavored water over plain water is the taste. Compared to typical plain water, flavored water tastes much better and can help you easily achieve your daily water intake goal. Usually, flavored waters are infused with fruit flavors, such as peach, mango, watermelon, and lemon.

If you need a refreshing pick-me-up, a citrus flavor might be the way to go. Or if you want something more interesting, you can find products made with a blend of different fruit flavors. Drinks that mix tropical flavors such as pineapple and mango are very popular.

However, you might want to pick a beverage made with real fruit juice instead of artificial flavors and sugary additives. Real fruit juice makes the drinks taste much more natural, and it's often better for you too.

There are some health concerns linked with additives. While most people are fine with a small number of additives, some may have adverse reactions to them, such as insomnia, irritability, or even allergies. So to be on the safe side, make sure to check the labels!

Flavored waters are often known as a healthy alternative to regular, sugar-packed sodas. Indeed, many flavored waters contain zero sugar and calories. So how are they sweetened? 

Various products use artificial sweeteners such as sucralose and aspartame. These are either low-calorie or zero-calorie and can be safer for diabetics as they're less likely to have a glycemic impact. However, artificial sweeteners don't include any nutrients and can overpower the taste of more natural flavors.

On the other hand, some flavored waters use naturally-derived sweeteners like stevia and erythritol. Natural sugars often have additional nutritional value as they can contain vitamins, enzymes, and minerals. They're broken down in the body easier than artificial sweeteners but can affect glucose levels.

While both natural and artificial sweeteners are generally safe for your health, don't consume them in a large amount! It's tough to find flavored waters without any kind of sugar at all, so we do recommend drinking in moderation.

Sugars aren't the only ingredient you have to be aware of. One of the downsides to having extra ingredients in your water is that the added acidity can damage your teeth. Your tooth enamel is used to the acid levels of your own mouth and will begin to wear away when consistently introduced to acidic drinks. 

Drinking water's pH levels are typically in a safe, higher range of six and above. That's about the same as the acidity of human saliva. But as you try to keep the flavor sources in your drink natural, odds are you'll be consuming acidic ingredients like citrus and other fruits. 

While it won't be easy to find flavored water with the same acidity as tap water, try to look for flavored waters with higher pH levels. The lower your beverage's pH level is, the more acidic it will be and the quicker it will eat at the protective enamel of your teeth. 

If you've just finished an intense workout or just want to add some more nutrients to your diet, you might want to consider nutritional flavored waters. These are usually enhanced with vitamins, minerals and electrolytes and help you replenish the water and energy lost during exercise. 

Electrolytes also help your body repair itself faster, so flavored waters that have them are perfect for when you've just finished a heavy workout. Some products might also contain caffeine to help you stay focused.

However, the nutritional value of those waters cannot compare to a balanced diet and won't make up for an unhealthy lifestyle. They can also be high in sugar content, so don't rely completely on flavored waters for your electrolytes and nutrients! 

Flavored waters often come in a can or bottle. If you're sharing the drink with another person or are preparing for a long trip, opt for products that are 16 fluid ounces or more. But for a single serving, 10 to 12 fluid ounces will be enough!

Usually, bottles contain more than one serving. Meanwhile, cans will provide you with just enough to quench your thirst, and you can't really re-seal a can once it's opened. Also, keep in mind that sparkling waters can lose their carbonation. So you might want to go for a resealable bottle or a small can of sparkling water.