Experts say sparkling water could be a healthier alternative to coffee or energy drinks for boosting focus and alertness at work. A study conducted by the University of Tsukuba in Japan found that fizzy water helps maintain concentration and reduce fatigue over long periods of desk work.
Researchers asked 14 casual gamers to play virtual football for three hours on two separate occasions. In one session, participants drank plain water, and in the other, they consumed chilled sparkling water. Each participant drank a total of 500ml at regular intervals.
The results showed that sparkling water was more effective at sustaining attention, reducing subjective fatigue, and enhancing enjoyment during the gaming sessions. Heart rate and pupil diameter—an indicator of cognitive fatigue—were also monitored, with sparkling water helping prevent signs of mental exhaustion. Participants also committed fewer in-game errors while drinking the carbonated beverage, suggesting improved focus and self-control.
The team explained that carbonation stimulates sensory receptors in the mouth called transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, which activate brain arousal. Unlike caffeine- or sugar-based drinks, sparkling water does not carry risks of dependence or negative health effects, making it a safer and more sustainable option for managing cognitive fatigue throughout the day.
“Caffeine and sugar are effective for short-term high-intensity focus but can be harmful with chronic use,” the researchers noted. “Sparkling water provides a low-risk alternative to manage daily mental fatigue without these adverse effects.”
Previous research has also revealed why carbonated drinks produce a tingling sensation on the tongue. The effect is caused by an enzyme in taste buds that detects carbon dioxide, activating sour-taste receptors and sending signals to the brain, rather than from bubbles bursting as once thought.
Overall, the study suggests that reaching for a fizzy drink could be a refreshing and health-conscious way to stay alert and engaged during work or prolonged screen time.
