The Effect of Natural Carbonated Mineral Water Consumption on Gastrointestinal Transit and Gut Microbiota - A Randomized Controlled Trial

Gastrointestinal discomfort is a common condition associated with aging, low levels of physical activity, and reduced intake of fibre, water, and magnesium. Several studies have reported a positive association between the consumption of hyper-mineral water containing high levels of bicarbonate, calcium, or magnesium and improvements in gastrointestinal transit. There is evidence that magnesium and sulphate, individually, exert a laxative effect; however, the impact of other minerals remains limited. Different mechanisms have been described to explain how the gut microbiota influences gastrointestinal transit. It is important to understand the characteristics of the gut microbiota and to determine whether the intake of hyper-mineral water, a natural source of minerals, can positively modulate it. The aim of this randomized, placebo-controlled trial is to evaluate the effects of carbonated mineral water consumption on gastrointestinal transit and gut microbiota composition.