For a drink that’s essentially water with bubbles, carbonated water is at the center of an unexpected debate. With a few myths bubbling up, it’s time to set the record straight on this fizzy beverage.
Some people worry that carbonated water melts away tooth enamel like soda does. While it is slightly acidic due to dissolved CO2, its acidity is far lower than that of sugary sodas or fruit juices. When consumed in moderation, it poses very little risk to the teeth. Another myth about carbonated water is that it is as harmful as soda. This comparison is misleading. Pure carbonated water contains none of the added sugars, artificial sweeteners, or caffeine found in most sodas. That’s why it serves as a healthy, hydrating alternative to sugary beverages.
Then there’s the idea that carbonation damages bones. This belief might come from studies involving cola, which contains an ingredient known to take its toll on bone density. In fact, some varieties of carbonated water have bone-friendly minerals like calcium and magnesium. So instead of harming your bones, they might actually be helping to keep them strong.
Photo: AdobeStock I 照片:AdobeStoc
To enjoy carbonated water wisely, opt for unsweetened ones, sip slowly to avoid swallowing too much air, and rinse your mouth with plain water afterward. When you look past the myths, what’s left is just water with bubbles, and that’s nothing to worry about.
對於本質上就是水和氣泡的飲品來說，氣泡水成了意想不到的爭論焦點。隨著一些迷思湧現，是時候替這種氣泡飲料澄清事實了。
有些人擔心氣泡水跟汽水一樣會侵蝕牙齒琺瑯質。雖然氣泡水因溶解的二氧化碳而有點酸，但其酸度遠低於含糖汽水或果汁。適量飲用氣泡水的話，對牙齒造成的風險非常微小。另一項關於氣泡水的迷思是其與汽水一樣有害。這樣相提並論是有誤導性的。純氣泡水完全不含多數汽水內會有的添加糖、人工甜味劑或咖啡因。那就是為什麼氣泡水能作為含糖飲料的健康又補水的替代品。
接下來是碳酸化會損害骨頭的想法。這項認知可能來自關於可樂的研究，可樂內含有已知會對骨頭密度造成損傷的成分。事實上，某些氣泡水種類含有對骨頭有益的礦物質，例如鈣和鎂。所以氣泡水不會傷害骨頭，反而可能有助於保持骨頭健壯。
想要聰明地享用氣泡水的話，選擇無加糖的品項、慢慢啜飲以避免吞下過多空氣，並在喝完後用清水漱口。當你撇開那些迷思，剩下的只有水跟氣泡，那沒什麼好擔心的。
What Did You Learn?
1. According to the passage, who is LEAST likely to benefit from drinking carbonated water?
(A) An athlete who needs beverages high in calories.
(B) A child who often feels sick during long car rides.
(C) A man who wants to feel full without eating too much.
(D) An office worker who has poor eating habits and needs digestive help.
2. What is one key difference between carbonated water and soda?
(A) Soda tastes less sour than plain carbonated water.
(B) Soda contains minerals that are helpful for bone health.
(C) Carbonated water doesn’t rely on added sugars to create flavor.
(D) Carbonated water gets its sweetness from fruit rather than added sugar.
3. Which of the following may explain why there are myths about carbonated water?
(A) Negative reviews from consumers have led to health concerns.
(B) There’s confusion between carbonated water and sugary sodas.
(C) Experts warn people to stay away from carbonated water.
(D) Scientific evidence has confirmed its dangers.
4. Which of the following drink-description combinations is correct?
答案：1. A 2. C 3. B 4. D
Words in Use
1. essentially adv. 本質上
That movie is essentially a love story with sci-fi elements.
那部電影本質上是個帶著科幻元素的愛情故事。
2. unexpected a. 意想不到的
We faced an unexpected delay because the bus broke down.
因為公車故障讓我們遇到意想不到的耽擱。
3. consume vt. 吃，喝
Brad is trying to consume less sugar because it makes him feel tired.
布萊德盡量少吃糖，因為糖會讓他覺得疲倦。
4. moderation n. 適度
in moderation 適度地
The singer uses social media in moderation to protect her mental health.
那名歌手適度使用社群媒體，以保護心理健康。
5. harmful a. 有害的
harm vt. 傷害
The news reported that harmful chemicals exist in some cleaning products.
新聞報導某些清潔用品含有有害化學物質。
Using harsh products can easily harm sensitive skin.
使用刺激性產品很容易傷害敏感肌膚。
Practical Phrases
1. bubble up 湧現，冒出
Problems bubbled up as the plan grew more complicated.
隨著計畫變得更加複雜，問題開始冒了出來。
2. set the record straight 澄清事實
The mayor wanted to set the record straight before the rumors spread further.
市長想在謠言進一步擴散前把事情講清楚。
3. pose a/an + Adj. + risk to...
對……構成……風險
Poor wiring poses a huge risk to everyone in the building.
電線老舊對整棟大樓的人造成巨大危險。
4. serve as. . . 當作∕充當……
Chuck’s story serves as a reminder to be careful online.
查克的故事是一個提醒，讓大家上網時要小心。
5. take its toll on. . . 使……遭受損害
Heavy stress took its toll on Roger’s energy and physical health.
沉重的壓力損害了羅傑的精力與身體健康。
6. opt for. . . 選擇……
Sadie opted for a formal outfit for today’s interview.
莎蒂為今天的面試選了正式的服裝。
聽文章朗讀及講解: https://ivy.pse.is/455bfu
本文出自常春藤解析英語雜誌: www.ivy.com.tw
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