About this episode
In this solo episode of the SuperLife podcast, Darin Olien pulls back the curtain on one of the most popular "healthy" beverage trends—sparkling water. From its surprising origins to its hidden impact on your teeth, gut, and kidneys, Darin explains why that fizzy drink might not be as harmless as you think. He breaks down the science behind carbonic acid, body pH, and the systemic strain sparkling water can put on your health over time. Darin also shares actionable solutions for how you can hydrate smarter, including his favorite ways to upgrade your water naturally. This is an essential listen for anyone who's reaching for a bubbly beverage without understanding the long-term consequences. What You'll Learn: 00:00 – Welcome to the SuperLife Podcast 00:32 – Sponsor: Thera Sage PMF Healing Technology (15% off with code DARIN) 02:15 – Sparkling water: Is it really healthier than soda? 03:12 – The Fatal Convenience™️ of sparkling water 03:56 – Why sparkling water has become so popular 04:25 – The history of carbonated water and mineral springs 05:35 – How carbonated water was marketed as a cure for ailments 06:12 – The rise of the global sparkling water market 07:16 – The acidic problem with sparkling water 07:53 – How carbonic acid disrupts your body's pH balance 09:06 – Why sparkling water is far more acidic than you think 09:47 – The damaging effects on your teeth, mouth, and microflora 11:28 – How sparkling water can worsen acid reflux and GERD 12:07 – Sparkling water's surprising impact on hunger hormones 12:45 – The strain sparkling water puts on your kidneys 13:54 – Long-term risks: Metabolic acidosis, bone loss, chronic kidney disease 14:25 – Hacks to minimize sparkling water damage (if you still want to drink it) 14:55 – Darin's favorite ways to upgrade your water naturally 15:29 – Final thoughts: Burst the carbonic acid bubble and protect your health Links and Resources Study: An Overview of the Effects of Carbonated Drinks Study: Carbon Dioxide in Carbonated Water Is Seltzer Water Ruining Your Teeth? Facts About Metabolic Acidosis The PH of Major Sparkling Brands Infused Water Recipes Thank You to Our Sponsor: Therasage: Go to www.therasage.com and use code DARIN at checkout for 15% off Find More From Darin Olien Instagram: @darinolien Podcast: SuperLife Podcast Website: superlife.com Book: Fatal Conveniences Key Takeaway: "Sparkling water may seem like a harmless soda alternative, but the carbonic acid and high acidity can quietly erode your health over time—damaging your teeth, burdening your kidneys, and even altering your body's pH balance. Hydrate smarter."