Soda water (club soda)

Soda water (club soda) is low in histamine. It is carbonated water with a small amount of added minerals, such as sodium bicarbonate, and nothing in it is fermented, aged or rated above low.

Why soda water (club soda) is rated low

Histamine builds when bacteria break down histidine in protein foods during fermentation, curing, aging or warm storage. Club soda is water, carbon dioxide and a pinch of mineral salts, so there is no protein for bacteria to work on and no ingredient that raises its rating. It is not the same as soda pop: sweetened sodas are rated by their own ingredients, and many of them contain preservatives or colorings that put them at moderate or high.

What changes your risk

• Plain or flavored: plain club soda and seltzer are rated low; some flavored versions add citric acid or natural flavors, so check the label if you react to those.
• Not soda pop: a sweetened soda like Sprite or Coca-Cola is a different drink and is rated by its own ingredients.
• Tonic water is different: tonic adds quinine and sweetener and is rated high on its own page.
• The fizz: carbonation does not add histamine, though a lot of gas can leave you feeling bloated.

What else is safe

Plain sparkling water, mineral water and still water are equally simple choices. For flavor, a few slices of cucumber or some mint leaves keep it low.

How to enjoy it

Club soda keeps well while sealed, and once opened it only loses its fizz. Use it in place of sweetened sodas or tonic when you want something bubbly with nothing extra in it.

Common questions

Is club soda the same as soda?

No. Club soda is unsweetened carbonated water with a little added mineral salt. Soda pop is a sweetened drink, and its rating depends on its ingredients.

Is soda water low histamine?

Yes, plain soda water is rated low. It is carbonated water with a small amount of added minerals.

Is seltzer the same as club soda?

Nearly. Seltzer is carbonated water without the added minerals, and both are rated low.