Sodium bicarbonate is a solid compound that dissolves in water and has wide applications in the area of food and medicine, with a slightly alkaline taste and much commercialization worldwide.
In the following article we will delve into what this multifaceted product is, what are the applications or uses and what are the existing risks due to its nature.
What is baking soda?
Baking soda, also known as sodium hydrogen carbonate or bicarbonate of soda, is a water-soluble compound with the ability to neutralize acids.
Note: It has multiple uses and is characterized mainly by having been present throughout history in home medical kits and as an aid in the kitchen.
The chemical formula of sodium bicarbonate is NaHCO₃ and it is a compound that can be found as a mineral in the natural environment and can also be obtained or produced artificially.
What is baking soda used for?
As we previously mentioned, baking soda has a wide application in different areas. The main uses will be mentioned below, thus allowing their recognition and use:
1. Improves digestive discomfort
Due to the nature of sodium bicarbonate, in the presence of acids it decomposes to form carbon dioxide, which means that it has the capacity to neutralize it and, therefore, it is used for digestive ailments, mainly heartburn. It is therefore considered a natural antacid. (1)
To highlight: It is important not to exceed 6 mg as a daily dose, since an excess could bring consequences and adverse effects.
2. Fight urinary infections
A home remedy that has transcended over time to relieve urinary tract infections is the use of sodium bicarbonate diluted in water. The technique is to ingest it after having drunk two glasses of water.
You should know: The active principle of this treatment is thanks to its alkaline, electrolytic and antacid properties, which makes it difficult for bacteria to adhere to the walls of the urinary tract. (two)
3. Relieves respiratory conditions
The restoration of the acid-base balance of the body, plus the activation of autoimmune cells as a response of the spleen, are the main factors that allow the consumption of bicarbonate to relieve respiratory conditions. (3)
To highlight: The ability to make it difficult for bacteria to adhere to the transit areas of ingested bicarbonate, is also a reason for their prevention.
4. Improves oral hygiene
Bicarbonate in oral hygiene intervenes in the form of rinse. It allows the elimination of bacteria and for many years it has been used together with peroxide in order to whiten teeth .
You should know : The evidence indicates, in studies of the American Dental Association (ADA) that it is mainly recommended for patients receiving cancer treatments, thus reducing the side effects produced in this area of the body (mouth). (4)
5. Promotes skin health
Its antiseptic and cleansing effect is quite effective, which is why it is usually used to exfoliate the skin and eliminate dead cells, it is also a natural neutralizer and reduces excess oils in the applied areas. It is even used to obtain the same benefits for the hair.
6. Helps lose weight
Although over the years it has been believed that using baking soda together with the juice of a lemon is extremely favorable for burning fat and therefore losing weight, it has been shown that this is not true.
Important: The true benefit of sodium bicarbonate for this purpose is that it increases physical and muscular resistance, according to research published by the European Journal of Applied Physiology, this is because it delays fatigue and the sensation that the muscles are they are burning (5)
7. Contribute to cleaning the home
Sodium bicarbonate, activated with other substances for household cleaning, allows to increase its effectiveness and therefore the use of it.
In the same way, it helps to eliminate bacteria, germs from surfaces and bad odors, so its orientation focuses on key places such as the kitchen, bathrooms and appliances.
8. Eliminate plant pests
A mixture of baking soda and vinegar sprayed on the plants will drive away insects and pests that may compromise the health and quality of their leaves . Its activity as a fungicide is due to the nature of this substance, due to its antacid action and its inhibitory capacity. (6)
9. It is an ally in the kitchen
Baking soda has a wide variety of uses in the kitchen , from its effect in bakery doughs, to help soften vegetables and legumes, to reduce the acidity of some recipe, to soften red and white meats, and a more rigorous cleaning of certain type of food.
Note: Its application is wide and of great benefit, which is why it has transcended through the years from generation to generation.
What are the risks of using sodium bicarbonate?
Excessive consumption of sodium bicarbonate can lead to serious consequences, mainly triggering severe metabolic alkalosis, hyponatremia (very low sodium levels), hypoxemia (below normal blood oxygen level), hypokalemia (electrolyte imbalance) or hypercapnia (excess carbon dioxide in the bloodstream). (7)
Important: In the presence of symptoms such as excessive gas, abdominal pain, irritability, loss of appetite, slower breathing than usual, and swelling of the legs and feet, it is necessary to stop consuming sodium bicarbonate and immediately receive professional medical attention.
Key Findings
- Baking soda is a natural component, but it can also be produced artificially, with a slightly alkaline flavor and white in color.
- Baking soda is used thanks to its ability to neutralize acids to reduce digestive discomfort, reduce urinary tract infections and alleviate respiratory infections.
- It is also used as an exfoliant and antiseptic that allows the elimination of dead cells from the skin and scalp, improving the health of both.
- The maximum recommended intake is 6 mg per day, thus preventing a destabilization in the acid-base balance of the body.
- Its use also has competition in areas of gardening, household cleaning and cooking, allowing a wide use of the product.
University Professional in the area of Human Resources, Postgraduate in Occupational Health and Hygiene of the Work Environment, 14 years of experience in the area of health. Interested in topics of Psychology, Occupational Health, and General Medicine.