Baking soda or sodium bicarbonate works as an antacid to neutralize excess stomach acid and provide relief for heartburn, acid indigestion or an upset stomach, according to the Mayo Clinic. Taking baking soda to reduce stomach acid is a short-term solution to relieve the problem. Restrict your use of baking soda to no more than two weeks. If you have recurrent or persistent symptoms, speak with your doctor. Also, adhere to the specific package directions or your doctor's instructions for the amount of baking soda to take.
Step 1
Pour 1/2 cup of water into a glass.
Step 2
Add 1/2 tsp. of baking soda. Stir with a spoon.
Step 3
Drink the mixture every two hours. Do not exceed eight doses per day.
Step 4
Take any other oral medication at least one or two hours before taking a dose of baking soda. The baking soda may interference with the effectiveness of other medications if taken too closely together, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Step 5
Monitor your sodium intake. One teaspoon of baking soda contains 1,259 milligrams of sodium. The Institute of Medicine's recommended daily intake for sodium is 1,500 milligrams for an adult with the maximum level being 2,300 milligrams. Consider alternative treatments if you are on a sodium-restricted diet.
Tips and Warnings
- Do not drink or use milk products while taking baking soda.
- Some side effects associated with taking baking soda include headaches, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, slow breathing, frequent urge to urinate and unusual tiredness, according to Mayo Clinic. The chances of negative effects increase with the size of the dose, the length of time you continue to use baking soda and if you have kidney disease.
Things You'll Need
- Measuring cup
- Glass
- Measuring spoon
References
- MayoClinic.com: Sodium Bicarbonate (Oral Route, Intravenous Route, Subcutaneous Route
- USA Emergency Supply: Baking Soda Label
- MayoClinic.com: Sodium Bicarbonate Oral Route, Intravenous Route, Subcutaneous Route Precautions
- USDA Nutrient Data Laboratory: Baking Soda
- Institute of Medicine of the National Academies: Dietary Reference Intakes Electrolytes and Water
- MayoClinic.com: Sodium Bicarbonate Oral Route, Intravenous Route, Subcutaneous Route Side Effects
