Drinking water with baking soda can primarily help neutralize stomach acid, offering relief from acid reflux and indigestion, and there is also some evidence to suggest it may slow the progression of kidney disease.
Baking soda, chemically known as sodium bicarbonate, is a common household item often dissolved in water to create a solution with various purported health benefits. When consumed, it interacts with the body's systems, particularly those related to digestion and kidney function.
Key Benefits of Drinking Baking Soda Water
The primary reasons people drink water mixed with baking soda revolve around its alkaline properties, which can help counteract acidity in the body.
Alleviating Digestive Issues
One of the most well-known applications of baking soda water is for digestive relief. Because baking soda is a component of many over-the-counter antacids, it effectively works to:
- Lower stomach acid: It acts as an alkali, neutralizing excess gastric acid in the stomach.
- Relieve acid reflux: By reducing stomach acidity, it can help alleviate the burning sensation and discomfort associated with acid reflux.
- Ease indigestion: It can soothe general indigestion symptoms, making it a quick home remedy for an upset stomach.
Supporting Kidney Health
Beyond immediate digestive relief, there has been some research indicating a potential long-term benefit for kidney health. Some evidence suggests that consuming baking soda may:
- Slow the progression of kidney disease: While more research is always ongoing, preliminary findings indicate a role for baking soda in managing conditions that contribute to the advancement of kidney disease.
How Baking Soda Works
At its core, baking soda's effectiveness stems from its chemical property as a base. When dissolved in water and ingested, it reacts with acids in the body, primarily hydrochloric acid in the stomach, to produce water, carbon dioxide, and a salt. This neutralization process is what provides the relief for acidic conditions.
Summary of Benefits
| Benefit | Mechanism | Condition(s) Addressed |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Stomach Acid | Neutralizes excess gastric acid | Acid Reflux, Indigestion |
| Slow Kidney Disease Progression | Evidence suggests beneficial impact | Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) |
