Is sparkling water as hydrating as plain water?

The question: Is it true that sparkling water is as hydrating as plain water? The science: Sparkling water contains the same compound essential for hydration as plain water - H2O. But the two differ; sparkling water that is carbonated - naturally or artificially - contains dissolved carbon dioxide gas, which, through a chemical reaction, turns into carbonic acid, giving it that fizz. “This does not interfere with the body’s ability to absorb water and stay hydrated,” said Grace Derocha, a registered dietitian, nutritionist and spokeswoman for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

A 2016 study that examined hydration by 13 different beverages by comparing fluid intake with urine output found that not only was sparkling water just as hydrating as plain water, but it was also as hydrating as many other drinks, including coffee, tea and soda. In most cases, hydration comes down to how much liquid people drink, which, for many of us, is at least partly influenced by taste and texture..