What Are the Benefits of Taking Bicarbonate of Soda?

Bicarbonate of soda, commonly known as baking soda, has long been used as a cleaning agent, but it also possesses remarkable health benefits. Bicarbonate of soda raises the blood's pH, creating an alkaline environment that fights infection and disease.

Stomach

• Drinking a glass of water mixed with a teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda will neutralize stomach acid and relieve the symptoms associated with acid reflux.

Kidney Stones

• Acidic urine promotes the formation of uric acid kidney stones. Drinking bicarbonate of soda lowers urine acidity, dissolves existing uric acid kidney stones, and prevents the development of new ones.

Urinary Tract Infections

• According to Dr. Kristene E. Whitmore, chief of urology and director of the Incontinence Center at Graduate Hospital in Philadelphia, bicarbonate of soda's alkalizing effect kills the bacteria that cause urinary tract infections. The reduction in acidity will relieve the burning sensation associated with the condition.

Skin

• Bicarbonate of soda will ease many skin ailments, including acne, eczema, poison ivy, insect bites and sunburn. To treat acne, mix some bicarbonate of soda and water into a paste and apply it to the skin for 20 minutes.

Endurance

• During strenuous exercise, lactic acid builds up in the muscles and causes fatigue. Sodium of bicarbonate, with its ability to neutralize acid, acts as a buffering agent to preserve muscle performance and prolong endurance.

Warning

• Only drink pure bicarbonate of soda. Some commercial brands of baking soda contain aluminum, which is harmful if ingested.