Baking soda water has been gaining attention as a home remedy for heartburn, digestive relief, and even athletic performance enhancement. Whether you’re a curious health enthusiast or just looking to understand this fizzing solution, discovering how it compares to other beverages can be enlightening. To learn more about the bigger picture of alkaline drinks, check out our comparison in how alkaline water differs from regular water.
What Is Baking Soda Water?
Baking soda water is simply a mixture of baking soda—known chemically as sodium bicarbonate—and water. This alkaline solution can neutralize acidity within the body, particularly in the stomach, which is why many people sip it to relieve occasional acid reflux or heartburn.
In chemistry, baking soda is identified by the formula NaHCO3. When it dissolves in water, it produces bicarbonate ions that can affect pH levels. Because of its alkaline properties, it is sometimes called a sodium bicarbonate drink.
The tradition of using baking soda dates back centuries, with historical records showing its use in cleaning, cooking, and light medical applications. Today, many individuals explore it for short-term health benefits such as baking soda for acid reflux and related concerns.
Nutritional Profile
Drinking baking soda in small amounts may sound harmless, but it’s vital to note the high sodium content involved. One teaspoon (about five grams) of pure baking soda contains roughly 1,200 milligrams of sodium, which is over half of the daily recommended limit for individuals on a low-salt diet.
Because it offers no protein, carbs, or fat, baking soda water does not provide the usual nutrients found in other beverage choices. It does, however, drive up sodium intake rather quickly, highlighting one of the potential baking soda water side effects—increased blood pressure for those with sensitivity to high sodium.
While the solution is calorie-free, the excessive sodium content is something to keep in mind if you are monitoring your salt intake or have preexisting conditions like hypertension.
Potential Benefits
The internet often highlights a range of possible perks related to baking soda water for digestion, exercise, or kidney support. Several studies have looked into these effects, though more research is always helpful before forming firm conclusions.
May Help With Heartburn and Indigestion
Because baking soda is alkaline, it can counteract surplus stomach acid and reduce an over-acidic environment. According to one preliminary report in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings, sodium bicarbonate can be used occasionally for heartburn relief. Some people experience short-term comfort from burning sensations in the chest or throat after taking a small dose mixed in water.
It’s worth noting that frequent acid reflux points to underlying issues. Rather than relying on baking soda long term, discussing ongoing symptoms with a healthcare professional is more advisable.
Possibly Improves Athletic Endurance
Beyond indigestion relief, research suggests that dance performers, swimmers, and other athletes sometimes use sodium bicarbonate to buffer lactic acid buildup during demanding routines. A meta-analysis in the International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance linked supplemental baking soda to gains in short-duration, high-intensity performance. The theory is that the added alkalinity counters drops in muscle pH, delaying fatigue.
Despite these potential benefits, the practice—often referred to as “soda doping”—can result in gastrointestinal distress like bloating or diarrhea. Athletes interested in this approach should proceed under professional supervision due to the risk of side effects.
Kidney Health Support
Preliminary research suggests that baking soda may slow the progression of chronic kidney disease. In a study published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, participants taking sodium bicarbonate supplements displayed reduced kidney function decline compared to a control group.
Still, self-prescribing large amounts without medical guidance could lead to issues such as electrolyte imbalances. Always talk to a doctor or registered dietitian if you’re thinking about alternative approaches for kidney health.
Comparisons to Similar Drinks
Many individuals experimenting with drinking baking soda also want to know how it matches up against other water-based solutions marketed for health. Some beverages, such as okra water or chia seed water, have overlapping benefits but are uniquely different in their main nutrients and potential downsides.
For a plant-based twist, okra water supplies soluble fiber, which may help digestion differently than sodium bicarbonate. Meanwhile, chia seed water is often praised for its omega-3 fatty acids and gel-like texture that can promote fullness.
Another comparison is coconut water, recognized for its natural sweetness and potassium content. Unlike baking soda water, which has a significant sodium load, coconut water offers electrolytes in a way that may be more suitable for long-term consumption.
Risks and Precautions
Baking soda water is not without dangers. Baking soda water side effects can appear quickly, especially for anyone ingesting more than the typical small amount for occasional relief.
One key risk is metabolic alkalosis, where the body’s pH tilts too far toward alkalinity. Symptoms can include muscle twitching, confusion, and an irregular heart rate. Although rare, swallowing excessive amounts of baking soda can even cause a dangerous buildup of gas in the stomach.
Baking soda may also interact with certain medications like antibiotics or aspirin. If you take prescription drugs or have underlying health conditions—particularly kidney, heart, or liver disorders—asking a medical professional beforehand is crucial.
In addition, those who attempt baking soda water for weight loss should know that few, if any, peer-reviewed studies support this approach. Weight-related changes from drinking baking soda are likely due to temporary water fluctuations rather than body fat reduction.
Finally, it is critical to limit the amount consumed. Some sources advise no more than half a teaspoon thoroughly dissolved in water, repeated only a few times per day for short intervals. Overuse may upset your body’s electrolyte balance, especially if done regularly.
Key Takeaway
Baking soda water does have some evidence-based benefits, especially in tackling occasional heartburn and possibly supporting exercise performance in small doses. Yet, it brings clear concerns tied to high sodium levels and potential for serious side effects when overused. More research is needed to fully confirm whether it delivers broader health gains beyond temporary relief.
If you’re curious about other potentially beneficial beverages, read about mineral water and its role in hydration. As with any natural remedy, it’s best to speak with a healthcare provider to avoid adverse impacts on your overall well-being.
References
- Mayo Clinic. (2023). “Sodium Bicarbonate: Oral Route, Intravenous Route, Subcutaneous Route.” Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/sodium-bicarbonate-oral-route-intravenous-route-subcutaneous-route/description/drg-20065950
- Journal of the American Society of Nephrology. (2009). “Bicarbonate Supplementation Slows Progression of CKD.” Available at: https://www.asn-online.org
- International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance. (2013). “Effect of Sodium Bicarbonate on Sports Performance: A Meta-Analysis.” Available at: https://journals.humankinetics.com
- Journal of Immunology. (2018). “Oral NaHCO3 Activates Anti-Inflammatory Pathways.” Available at: https://www.jimmunol.org
