Sodium bicarbonate is commonly known as baking soda. It is a versatile household staple that offers a wide array of surprising health benefits when consumed as a drink. While most people associate baking soda with baking or cleaning, this humble white powder has the potential to positively impact various aspects of your well-being. From aiding digestion to supporting kidney health, drinking sodium bicarbonate can be a simple yet effective way to boost your overall health. This article will discuss 18 Surprising Benefits of Drinking Sodium Bicarbonate.
Baking Soda Nutrition Facts
Here are the key nutrition facts about baking soda (sodium bicarbonate):
- Calories: Baking soda contains 0 calories per serving (1 teaspoon or 4.6 grams).
- Fat: Baking soda contains 0 grams of fat per serving.
- Carbohydrates: Baking soda contains 0 grams of carbohydrates per serving, including 0 grams of fiber and 0 grams of sugar.
- Protein: Baking soda contains 0 grams of protein per serving.
- Sodium: Baking soda is very high in sodium, with about 1260 milligrams per teaspoon (4.6 grams). This is over 50% of the daily recommended limit.
- Other Nutrients: Baking soda does not contain significant amounts of other essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, or fatty acids.
In summary, baking soda is not a significant source of calories, macronutrients (fat, carbs, protein), or micronutrients (vitamins and minerals). Its main nutritional consideration is its very high sodium content.
18 Surprising Benefits of Drinking Sodium Bicarbonate
1. Neutralizes Stomach Acid and Relieves Indigestion
One of the most well-known benefits of drinking sodium bicarbonate is its ability to neutralize stomach acid. This can provide relief from indigestion, heartburn, and acid reflux.
When you drink a solution of baking soda and water, it can help balance your body’s pH levels. This can also help alleviate the discomfort associated with these common digestive issues.
To try this remedy at home, simply mix 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda with a glass of water and drink it slowly. However, it’s important to note that while this can provide temporary relief, it’s not a long-term solution for chronic acid reflux or other serious digestive disorders.
2. Supports Kidney Health and Prevents Stones
Your kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste and excess fluids from your body. Drinking sodium bicarbonate may help support kidney function and prevent the formation of painful kidney stones.
The alkalizing effect of baking soda can help neutralize acid in the urine. This can reduce the risk of developing certain types of kidney stones, such as uric acid stones.
A study found that patients with uric acid stones who took sodium bicarbonate supplements had a significantly lower risk of stone formation.
3. Enhances Physical Performance and Endurance
Athletes and fitness enthusiasts take note! Drinking sodium bicarbonate may help improve your physical performance and endurance during high-intensity exercises.
When you engage in intense physical activity, your muscles produce lactic acid, which can lead to fatigue and decreased performance. Baking soda can help buffer the acid in your muscles.
A meta-analysis published in the Journal of Sports Sciences found that sodium bicarbonate supplementation can improve exercise performance in short-term, high-intensity activities lasting 1-10 minutes.
To try this performance-enhancing trick, mix 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda with water and drink it 60-90 minutes before your workout. Just be sure to start with a small amount and gradually increase the dose to avoid any potential digestive discomfort.
4. Promotes Oral Health and Whitens Teeth
Looking for a natural way to brighten your smile and promote oral health? Sodium bicarbonate may be the answer! Baking soda has mild abrasive properties that can help remove surface stains and plaque from your teeth.
To use baking soda as a tooth whitener, mix a small amount with water to create a paste, then gently brush your teeth with the mixture for about two minutes.
Be sure to rinse your mouth thoroughly afterward. You can also find many toothpastes and mouthwashes that contain baking soda as an active ingredient. However, it’s important to use these products in moderation, as excessive use can damage your tooth enamel over time.
5. Helps Treat Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common and often painful problem, particularly for women. Drinking sodium bicarbonate may help treat and prevent UTIs.
A study published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology found that women who took sodium bicarbonate supplements had a significantly lower risk of developing UTIs.
If you suspect you have a UTI, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment. However, drinking a baking soda solution alongside your prescribed treatment may help speed up your recovery.
6. Reduces Inflammation and Pain
Inflammation is a natural response of your body’s immune system to injury or infection. However, chronic inflammation can contribute to a wide range of health problems, including arthritis, heart disease, and cancer. Drinking sodium bicarbonate may help reduce inflammation in your body, thanks to its alkalizing properties.
A study published in the Journal of Immunology found that drinking a baking soda solution can help reduce inflammation by modulating the immune response in the spleen and kidneys.
This anti-inflammatory effect may also help alleviate pain associated with conditions like arthritis and gout. To try this remedy, mix 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda with water and drink it once daily.
7. Improves Digestion and Relieves Constipation
In addition to neutralizing stomach acid, drinking sodium bicarbonate may also help improve your overall digestive health. Baking soda can help promote the production of digestive enzymes. This can lead to better digestion and a reduced risk of digestive issues like bloating, gas, and constipation.
If you’re struggling with occasional constipation, drinking a baking soda solution may help. The alkalizing effect of sodium bicarbonate can help draw water into your digestive tract, softening your stools and making them easier to pass.
To try this remedy, mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with 1/4 cup of warm water and drink it once daily. However, if you experience persistent constipation or other digestive issues, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider.
8. Supports Cardiovascular Health
Heart disease is a leading cause of death worldwide. Drinking sodium bicarbonate may help support your heart health by reducing inflammation, balancing your body’s pH levels, and improving circulation.
A study published in the Journal of Hypertension found that drinking a baking soda solution can help lower blood pressure in people with hypertension.
The researchers suggest that the alkalizing effect of sodium bicarbonate may help relax blood vessels and improve blood flow.
9. Detoxifies the Body and Supports Liver Function
Your liver is responsible for filtering toxins and waste products from your body. Drinking sodium bicarbonate may help support liver function and promote detoxification.
A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hepatology found that sodium bicarbonate supplementation can help improve liver function in people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
The researchers suggest that the alkalizing effect of baking soda may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the liver.
10. May Help Fight Cancer
Cancer cells thrive in an acidic environment, and some researchers believe that increasing the alkalinity of the body may help slow the growth and spread of cancer cells.
A study published in the journal Cancer Research found that drinking a baking soda solution can help alkalize the area around tumors, reducing the spread of cancer cells in mice with metastatic breast cancer.
However, it’s important to note that this study was conducted in animals and more research is needed to determine if the same effects occur in humans. If you have cancer, it’s crucial to work closely with your healthcare team and not rely on baking soda as a sole treatment.
11. Relieves Canker Sores and Mouth Ulcers
Canker sores and mouth ulcers can be painful and annoying, making it difficult to eat, drink, and even talk. Drinking a baking soda solution may help relieve the discomfort associated with these common oral health issues.
The alkalizing effect of sodium bicarbonate can help neutralize the acid in your mouth, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
To try this remedy, mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with 1/2 cup of warm water and swish it around in your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit it out.
Repeat this process several times a day until your canker sore or mouth ulcer heals. However, if you experience persistent or severe mouth pain, it’s important to consult with your dentist or healthcare provider.
12. Soothes Insect Bites and Stings
If you’ve ever been bitten or stung by an insect, you know how uncomfortable and irritating it can be. Drinking a baking soda solution may help soothe the itching, redness, and swelling associated with insect bites and stings. The alkalizing effect of sodium bicarbonate can help neutralize the venom and reduce inflammation.
To try this remedy, mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with enough water to create a paste, then apply it directly to the affected area. Leave the paste on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse it off with cool water. You can repeat this process several times a day as needed.
13. Helps Treat Gout and Joint Pain
Gout is a type of arthritis that occurs when uric acid crystals build up in your joints, causing severe pain and inflammation. Drinking a baking soda solution may help treat gout and other types of joint pain.
A study published in the journal Arthritis & Rheumatism found that drinking a baking soda solution can help reduce uric acid levels in people with gout. The researchers suggest that the alkalizing effect of sodium bicarbonate may help promote the excretion of uric acid from the body.
14. Promotes Healthy Skin and Treats Acne
Acne is a common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While there are many over-the-counter and prescription treatments available, drinking a baking soda solution may offer a simple, natural way to promote healthy skin and treat acne.
The alkalizing effect of sodium bicarbonate can help balance the pH of your skin, reducing the risk of acne breakouts. Baking soda also has mild anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. This may help reduce redness and swelling associated with acne.
To try this remedy, mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with enough water to create a paste, then apply it directly to your acne-prone areas. Leave the paste on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse it off with cool water. You can repeat this process once or twice a week as needed.
15. May Help Treat Certain Respiratory Conditions
Respiratory conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can make it difficult to breathe. While there is no cure for these conditions, drinking a baking soda solution may help alleviate symptoms and improve overall respiratory function.
A study found that drinking a baking soda solution can help reduce inflammation in the airways and improve breathing in people with asthma.
The researchers suggest that the alkalizing effect of sodium bicarbonate may help neutralize acid in the lungs and reduce the risk of asthma attacks.
16. Helps Treat Thrush and Yeast Infections
Thrush and yeast infections are common fungal infections that can cause itching, burning, and discomfort in the mouth and genital area. Drinking a baking soda solution may help treat these infections.
To try this remedy for oral thrush, mix 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda with enough water to create a mouthwash, then swish it around in your mouth for 30 seconds and spit it out.
Repeat this process several times a day until your symptoms improve. For vaginal yeast infections, mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with enough water to create a douche. Then use it once a day until your symptoms improve.
17. May Improve Cholesterol Levels
Some studies have found that taking sodium bicarbonate supplements may help lower total cholesterol and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels.
While more research is needed to confirm these effects, maintaining healthy cholesterol levels is crucial for overall cardiovascular health.
High levels of LDL cholesterol can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. By potentially reducing cholesterol levels, sodium bicarbonate may support heart health.
18. Supports Overall Health and Well-Being
In addition to the specific benefits mentioned above, drinking a baking soda solution may also support overall health and well-being.
Some researchers believe that maintaining a slightly alkaline pH level can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases and improve overall health.
Additionally, it’s important to use baking soda in moderation and not rely on it as a sole source of nutrition or treatment for any health condition.
FAQs
Here are some common questions and answers about the health benefits of drinking sodium bicarbonate:
1. How much sodium bicarbonate should I drink to experience its health benefits?
A typical dose of sodium bicarbonate is 1/2 teaspoon dissolved in a 4-ounce glass of water. It’s best to start with smaller amounts and gradually increase the dosage as needed.
However, it’s crucial not to exceed the recommended dose without consulting a healthcare professional. Excessive consumption can lead to adverse effects.
2. Is it safe to drink sodium bicarbonate daily?
While drinking sodium bicarbonate can offer various health benefits, it’s not recommended to consume it daily without the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Long-term, excessive use of baking soda can lead to electrolyte imbalances, digestive issues, and other complications. It’s best to use sodium bicarbonate in moderation and as directed by a doctor or trusted health expert.
3. Are there any side effects of drinking sodium bicarbonate?
While sodium bicarbonate is generally considered safe when consumed in appropriate amounts, some people may experience side effects, especially if they consume too much.
Common side effects include bloating, gas, nausea, and abdominal discomfort. In rare cases, excessive consumption can lead to more serious issues, such as electrolyte imbalances, and high blood pressure.
4. Can drinking sodium bicarbonate help with weight loss?
There is limited scientific evidence to support the use of sodium bicarbonate for weight loss. While some people claim that drinking baking soda can help reduce body fat and promote weight loss, these claims are largely anecdotal.
Maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise remain the most effective strategies for sustainable weight management.
5. How long does it take to see the benefits of drinking sodium bicarbonate?
The time it takes to experience the benefits of drinking sodium bicarbonate can vary depending on the individual and the specific health concern being addressed.
Some people may notice improvements in digestive symptoms or relief from heartburn within a few minutes to a few hours after consuming a sodium bicarbonate solution. However, for other potential benefits, the effects may be more gradual and require consistent use over a longer period.
