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Is Sodium Bicarbonate Bad for You?

Key Takeaways

  • Sodium bicarbonate, also known as baking soda or bicarbonate of soda, can be helpful in small amounts but harmful if misused or in large amounts.
  • It is sometimes used as an over-the-counter antacid to neutralize stomach acid, but frequent use carries risks.
  • High sodium content makes sodium bicarbonate unsafe for some people, especially those with kidney disease or high blood pressure.
  • Side effects can include bloating, stomach cramps, and disruptions to acid-base balance.
  • A healthcare professional can help determine whether sodium bicarbonate is appropriate for your situation.

What Is Sodium Bicarbonate?

Sodium bicarbonate is a chemical compound commonly found in baking soda. It is alkaline in nature and reacts with acids to produce carbon dioxide gas, water, and a salt. Because of this reaction, sodium bicarbonate has been used for many purposes, including baking, cleaning, and some medical uses.

In healthcare settings, sodium bicarbonate may be used intravenously to treat certain acid-base balance disorders. Orally, it has historically been used as an antacid to relieve heartburn and acid reflux by neutralizing stomach acid.

Although it is widely available over the counter and found in many baked goods, sodium bicarbonate is not harmless when taken improperly.

How Sodium Bicarbonate Affects the Body

When sodium bicarbonate is taken orally, often with a glass of water, it neutralizes stomach acid. This can temporarily raise pH levels in the stomach, reducing acidity and relieving reflux symptoms.

However, this process also produces carbon dioxide, which can lead to bloating and gas. In addition, repeated use can interfere with the body’s natural pH balance, especially when taken in large amounts.

Because sodium bicarbonate contains sodium, it also contributes to overall sodium intake, which can affect blood pressure and fluid balance.

Common Uses of Sodium Bicarbonate

Some people use sodium bicarbonate for:

  • Occasional heartburn or acid reflux
  • Short-term indigestion relief
  • Boosting athletic performance
  • Baking and food preparation
  • Cleaning and deodorizing
  • Teeth whitening

In medical settings, it may be used intravenously for severe metabolic acidosis or specific toxic exposures, but this is very different from taking it over the counter.

Is Sodium Bicarbonate Safe as an Antacid?

Sodium bicarbonate can relieve heartburn temporarily, but it is not considered a first-line treatment for reflux symptoms. Newer antacids, such as Tums or other calcium– or magnesium-based products, are generally safer for regular use.

Using baking soda as an antacid may cause:

  • Bloating and stomach cramps due to carbon dioxide buildup
  • Rebound acid production after the effect wears off
  • Disruption of stomach pH levels

The FDA warns against using too much baking soda for indigestion, especially in people over a certain age or those with underlying medical conditions. It’s also not recommended to give it to children under six years of age unless directed by your pediatrician.

Side Effects of Sodium Bicarbonate

Side effects of sodium bicarbonate are more likely when it is taken frequently or in large amounts.

Possible side effects include:

  • Bloating and gas
  • Stomach cramps
  • Nausea
  • Headache

More serious effects may occur with excessive intake:

  • Metabolic alkalosis, a dangerous shift in acid-base balance
  • Sodium overload
  • Fluid retention
  • Increased blood pressure
  • Kidney stress or worsening kidney disease

Too much sodium bicarbonate can also cause a buildup of sodium in the body, which may be harmful for people on a sodium-restricted diet.

Who Should Avoid Sodium Bicarbonate?

Sodium bicarbonate may be unsafe for certain people, including those with:

  • Kidney disease
  • High blood pressure
  • Heart failure
  • A history of electrolyte imbalances
  • Conditions requiring a sodium-restricted diet

People taking supplements or medications that affect magnesium, calcium, or acid-base balance should also be cautious.

Breastfeeding individuals should seek medical advice before using sodium bicarbonate regularly, as sodium levels can affect fluid balance.

Sodium Bicarbonate and Acid-Base Balance

The body tightly regulates acidity and alkalinity through the kidneys and lungs. Introducing large amounts of an alkaline substance like sodium bicarbonate can disrupt this balance.

This disruption may lead to symptoms such as:

  • Muscle twitching
  • Confusion
  • Nausea
  • Abnormal heart rhythms in severe cases

These risks are much higher when sodium bicarbonate is taken in large amounts or over a long period.

Is Baking Soda the Same as Sodium Bicarbonate in Food?

Yes, baking soda used in baked goods is sodium bicarbonate. However, when consumed in food, it is usually combined with acidic ingredients and used in very small quantities.

Eating baked goods does not pose the same risks as drinking baking soda dissolved in water. Problems arise when people intentionally consume baking soda for health benefits without guidance.

When to Seek Medical Advice

You should talk to a healthcare professional if:

  • You experience frequent heartburn or acid reflux
  • Over-the-counter remedies are not helping
  • You have kidney disease, high blood pressure, or heart conditions
  • You are considering regular use of sodium bicarbonate for health reasons or digestive issues

Persistent reflux symptoms may indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease and require appropriate treatment.

Bottom Line

Sodium bicarbonate is not inherently bad for you, but it is easy to misuse. While it can temporarily relieve heartburn, regular or excessive use can lead to serious side effects, including disruptions in acid-base balance, increased sodium levels, and kidney problems. For most people, safer over-the-counter options are available. Always seek medical advice before using sodium bicarbonate regularly for health purposes.

FAQs

Can baking soda help with acid reflux?
It may provide short-term relief but is not recommended for regular use. Talk to your healthcare provider about safer options if you have persistent acid reflux.

What happens if you take too much baking soda?
Large amounts can cause bloating, metabolic alkalosis, high blood pressure, and kidney problems.

Is sodium bicarbonate the same as Tums?
No. Tums contains calcium carbonate, which is generally safer for repeated use.

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