Is It Safe to Ingest Baking Soda?

Published June 7, 2022 · Updated January 27, 2024

Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a versatile substance with numerous applications in cooking, cleaning, and other household tasks. However, its ingestion has been a topic of debate, with claims of both potential health benefits and risks. This article aims to examine the safety of ingesting baking soda, considering its uses, potential benefits, risks, and scientific evidence.

What is Baking Soda?

Baking soda is a white, crystalline powder with the chemical formula NaHCO3. It is a natural compound found in mineral deposits and can also be produced synthetically. Baking soda is commonly used as a leavening agent in baking, where it reacts with acids to produce carbon dioxide gas, causing baked goods to rise. It is also used as a cleaning agent, deodorizer, and mild abrasive.

Ingesting Baking Soda: Uses and Claims

Baking soda is ingested for various reasons, including:

Indigestion and Heartburn: Baking soda can neutralize stomach acid, providing temporary relief from indigestion and heartburn.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Some individuals believe that ingesting baking soda can help alkalize the urine, potentially reducing the symptoms of UTIs.

Athletic Performance: Baking soda has been claimed to enhance athletic performance by reducing muscle fatigue and improving endurance.
Anecdotal and Alternative Health Claims: Baking soda has been associated with various other health claims, such as cancer prevention, teeth whitening, and skin care. However, these claims lack substantial scientific evidence.

Risks and Side Effects

Ingesting baking soda can pose several risks and side effects, especially when consumed in large quantities or over an extended period. These include:

Sodium Overload: Excessive baking soda intake can lead to sodium overload, which can cause dehydration, high blood pressure, and other health issues.
Stomach Irritation: Baking soda can irritate the stomach lining, causing nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

Electrolyte Imbalance: High doses of baking soda can disrupt the body’s electrolyte balance, leading to muscle spasms, weakness, and irregular heartbeat.
Metabolic Alkalosis: Ingesting large amounts of baking soda can cause metabolic alkalosis, a condition characterized by abnormally high blood pH levels.
Poisoning: In extreme cases, excessive baking soda consumption can lead to poisoning, causing seizures, coma, and even death.

Scientific Evidence

The scientific evidence regarding the safety and effectiveness of ingesting baking soda is mixed. Some studies have shown that baking soda can provide temporary relief from indigestion and heartburn. However, there is limited evidence to support its use for other health conditions.

Indigestion and Heartburn: Several studies have demonstrated that baking soda can effectively neutralize stomach acid and alleviate symptoms of indigestion and heartburn. However, it is important to note that baking soda provides only temporary relief and does not address the underlying cause of these conditions.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): While some individuals claim that baking soda can help alkalize the urine and reduce UTI symptoms, scientific evidence supporting this claim is lacking. Moreover, altering the urine pH may disrupt the natural balance of the urinary tract and potentially lead to complications.

Athletic Performance: Research on the effects of baking soda on athletic performance has produced conflicting results. Some studies have shown that baking soda can improve endurance performance, while others have found no significant effects. More high-quality research is needed to draw definitive conclusions.

Guidelines for Safe Consumption

If you consider ingesting baking soda for any reason, it is crucial to do so safely and responsibly. Here are some guidelines to follow:

Consult a Healthcare Professional: Before ingesting baking soda for medicinal purposes, consult a healthcare professional to assess your individual needs and potential risks.

Start with a Small Dose: If your healthcare provider approves, start with a small dose, such as half a teaspoon (2.5 grams) dissolved in at least half a cup (120 milliliters) of water.
Do Not Exceed Recommended Dosage: Follow the recommended dosage and frequency of use as advised by your healthcare provider or as indicated on the product label.
Avoid Long-Term Use: Baking soda should not be used for extended periods without consulting a healthcare professional. Long-term use can increase the risk of side effects and potential health complications.

Conclusion

Baking soda is a versatile substance with various applications, including cooking, cleaning, and potential medicinal uses. However, ingesting baking soda can pose risks and side effects, especially when consumed excessively or over a prolonged period. While some studies have shown that baking soda can provide temporary relief from indigestion and heartburn, scientific evidence supporting its use for other health conditions is limited. If you consider ingesting baking soda for any reason, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional to assess your individual needs, potential risks, and appropriate dosage.

References

Baking Soda: What It Does and Doesn’t Do for Your Health. (2022, January 15). WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/baking-soda-do-dont
Baking Soda Overdose. (n.d.). Mount Sinai Health System. https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/poison/baking-soda-overdose

Drinking Baking Soda: Dangers, Benefits, and More. (2023, December 19). Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/dangers-of-drinking-baking-soda

FAQs

What is baking soda?

Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a white, crystalline powder commonly used as a leavening agent in baking, a cleaning agent, and a mild abrasive.

Can I ingest baking soda?

Ingesting baking soda can be safe in small doses and for temporary relief of certain conditions, but it is important to consult a healthcare professional before use. Excessive or prolonged ingestion can pose risks and side effects.

What are the potential benefits of ingesting baking soda?

Baking soda can provide temporary relief from indigestion and heartburn by neutralizing stomach acid. Some individuals also believe it may help alkalize the urine and reduce symptoms of urinary tract infections (UTIs), although scientific evidence supporting this claim is limited.

What are the risks and side effects of ingesting baking soda?

Excessive baking soda intake can lead to sodium overload, stomach irritation, electrolyte imbalance, metabolic alkalosis, and in extreme cases, poisoning. It is important to follow recommended dosages and consult a healthcare professional before ingesting baking soda.

How much baking soda is safe to ingest?

If your healthcare provider approves, you can start with a small dose, such as half a teaspoon (2.5 grams) dissolved in at least half a cup (120 milliliters) of water. Do not exceed the recommended dosage or use it for extended periods without consulting a healthcare professional.

When should I consult a healthcare professional before ingesting baking soda?

It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional before ingesting baking soda if you have any underlying health conditions, are taking medications, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you experience any adverse effects from ingesting baking soda.