Can you use baking powder for heartburn? Four health benefits and three drawbacks

Can you use baking powder for heartburn? Four health benefits and three drawbacks

What are the symptoms of heartburn?

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Acid reflux is neither deadly nor damaging, but can cause serial discomfort at the worst of times. Otherwise known as heartburn, it forms when stomach acids rise too far out of their jurisdiction. These acids irritate the oesophagus lining and cause a burning sensation, which people can relieve with a few household remedies.

Can you use baking powder for heartburn?

Doctors will accept baking powder (or soda) as a fast-acting treatment for heartburn.

The powders’ alkaline base neutralises stomach acids venturing up the throat and provides comparable relief to over-the-counter medications.

People can administer the powder via effervescent tablets or mix half a teaspoon with half a cup of water.

What health uses does baking powder have?

Baking soda is a versatile ingredient, as besides baking a cake, it also helps clean surfaces and even unclogs drains.

That versatility also extends to health, and it has many other potential uses alongside heartburn relief.

But there are also ways people should avoid using the powder.

What baking soda can help with

Treat bites and stings: One part baking soda mixed into a mixture with three parts water can help soothe bug bites or stings.

Aid dental hygiene: Companies specialising in toothpaste often include baking soda as an active ingredient in their product, which helps whiten and clean teeth.

Baking soda mixed with a glass of water can also freshen bad breath.

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Soothe sores: In the same vein as dental health, baking soda can also calm troublesome canker sores.

These painful ulcers develop inside the mouth, and baking soda mouthwash can help temper the pain.

Kidney health: A study published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology found sodium bicarbonate helped stall the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Bicarbonate supplements could help slow the impact for other people, but they should consult their doctor first.

What you shouldn’t use baking soda for

Haircare: Some people opt for an apple cider vinegar-baking soda combination on their hair to promote shine. But as the hair is slightly acidic, removing this with baking soda can ultimately cause brittle, breakable locks.

Overload for athletics: Some athletes drink baking soda to increase their performance, but they have professional advice from trainers or nutritionists. Regular people should not try this without consultation, as soda loading can make them sick.

Skincare: Skin is acidic by nature and often reacts poorly to more alkaline topical solutions. The acid helps promote moisture, so those with sensitive skin may find soda brings new trouble.

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