Baking soda is a common household item that is often used as an ingredient in baking, as well as for cleaning and deodorizing.

However, did you know that baking soda also has numerous health benefits? In this article, we’ll take a look at everything you need to know about baking soda and your health.

Baking Soda and Digestion

Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is an alkaline substance that can help to neutralize acid in the stomach. This is why it is often used as a natural remedy for digestive issues such as heartburn, acid reflux, and indigestion.

Baking soda can also help to reduce inflammation in the gut and improve digestion overall.

Baking Soda and Inflammation

In addition to its digestive benefits, baking soda may also help to reduce inflammation in the body.

Inflammation is a natural response to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can be damaging to the body and is linked to numerous health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Baking soda can help to reduce inflammation by balancing the pH levels in the body and reducing the acidity that can contribute to inflammation.

Baking Soda for Oral Health

Baking soda can also be beneficial for oral health. It has antibacterial properties that can help to kill the bacteria that cause bad breath, gum disease, and tooth decay.

Baking soda can also help to whiten teeth and remove stains, making it a popular ingredient in many natural toothpaste and mouthwash products.

Baking Soda and Exercise

Baking soda can also be used to improve exercise performance. When taken before a workout, baking soda can help to buffer lactic acid, which is produced by the muscles during exercise and can cause fatigue and muscle soreness.

This can help to improve endurance and delay fatigue, allowing for a more intense and longer workout.

Baking Soda and Kidney Health

Baking soda may also be beneficial for kidney health. It can help to balance the pH levels in the body and reduce the acidity that can contribute to kidney damage.

Baking soda may also help to prevent the formation of kidney stones by reducing the level of acid in the urine and increasing urine production.

How to Use Baking Soda for Health Benefits

Baking soda can be used in a variety of ways to reap its health benefits. Here are a few ideas:.

Add a teaspoon of baking soda to a glass of water and drink it to help with digestion and reduce inflammation.
Mix baking soda with water to create a paste and apply it to the teeth to help whiten them and remove stains.
Add a small amount of baking soda to your natural toothpaste or mouthwash to enhance their cleaning and whitening properties.
Mix baking soda with water and drink it before a workout to improve exercise performance.

Precautions and Side Effects

While baking soda is generally considered safe for most people when used in appropriate amounts, there are some precautions and side effects to be aware of:.

Excessive use of baking soda can lead to a condition called alkalosis, which occurs when the body’s pH level becomes too alkaline. Symptoms of alkalosis include nausea, vomiting, headaches, and muscle spasms.
Baking soda can interact with certain medications, including blood pressure medication, aspirin, and antacids. If you are taking medication, consult with your doctor before using baking soda for health purposes.
While baking soda can be used to temporarily relieve symptoms of heartburn or acid reflux, it should not be used as a long-term solution. Chronic use of baking soda can lead to an imbalance of stomach acid and damage to the digestive system.

The Bottom Line

Baking soda is a versatile and inexpensive household item that offers a range of health benefits.

From improving digestion and reducing inflammation to promoting oral health and enhancing exercise performance, baking soda can be a valuable addition to your wellness routine. Just be sure to use it in moderation and consult with your doctor if you have any concerns.