Why Drinking Cream of Tartar is Dangerous
Cream of tartar, also known as potassium bitartrate, is a common household baking ingredient derived as a byproduct of winemaking. While it is generally recognized as safe by the FDA in the small amounts used in food, consuming it directly in a beverage is extremely dangerous. The primary risk comes from its exceptionally high potassium content. A single teaspoon can contain nearly 500mg of potassium, representing a significant portion of an adult's daily recommended intake. Ingesting large quantities can overwhelm the body's ability to regulate potassium levels, leading to hyperkalemia.
The Life-Threatening Threat of Hyperkalemia
Hyperkalemia is a serious medical condition characterized by an excessive amount of potassium in the bloodstream. The body’s natural mechanisms for eliminating excess potassium, primarily through the kidneys, cannot keep up with a sudden, large intake from drinking cream of tartar. This can result in several severe symptoms and health complications:
- Cardiovascular problems: Abnormally high potassium levels can cause dangerous irregularities in heart rhythm, which can lead to cardiac arrest. This is often the most critical and life-threatening symptom.
- Muscular and nervous system issues: Symptoms can include severe muscle weakness, paralysis, and tingling sensations. These are direct consequences of potassium's role in nerve and muscle function being disrupted.
- Gastrointestinal distress: Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are common side effects from the body's reaction to the high potassium load.
- Dehydration and blood pressure changes: The diuretic effect of high potassium intake can lead to fluid imbalances, causing dehydration and low blood pressure.
Comparing Safe Culinary Use vs. Dangerous Direct Ingestion
It is crucial to understand the difference between using cream of tartar as intended in baking versus misusing it as a dietary supplement. The quantity is the key distinction.
| Feature | Safe Culinary Use | Dangerous Direct Ingestion |
|---|---|---|
| Quantity | Small amounts, typically less than a teaspoon per recipe. | Large, concentrated amounts, often tablespoons mixed with water. |
| Context | An ingredient mixed into a larger recipe, such as stabilizing egg whites or preventing sugar crystallization. | Drunk directly, often based on unsupported claims for detox or as a laxative. |
| Potassium Absorption | Absorbed slowly and in small, manageable quantities by the body. | Absorbed rapidly and in dangerously high doses, overwhelming the body's system. |
| Health Impact | Generally no negative health impact for healthy individuals. | Serious health risks, including hyperkalemia and cardiac issues. |
The Problem with Misleading Home Remedy Claims
Online, cream of tartar has gained a reputation as a 'miracle' cure or detox, but these claims are largely unsubstantiated and highly dangerous. Many blogs or social media posts promote mixing it with water or lemon juice to treat ailments like high blood pressure, migraines, or even help with smoking cessation. Medical experts and scientific research do not support these uses. The only proven effect is as a laxative in controlled medical settings (often through suppositories), but replicating this at home by drinking large quantities is reckless and life-threatening. Individuals seeking a genuine detox or health boost should focus on a balanced diet rich in natural potassium sources and consult a healthcare professional, not rely on dangerous internet anecdotes.
Conclusion: Prioritize Safety Over Unproven Remedies
In conclusion, you should not drink cream of tartar directly or in high concentrations. While it is a safe and useful ingredient for baking in small, recipe-appropriate amounts, ingesting large quantities can lead to severe and potentially fatal health consequences, primarily due to hyperkalemia. The internet is full of unproven and dangerous home remedies, and this is one of the most prominent examples. For any health concerns, including constipation or detoxing, consulting a healthcare professional is the only safe and responsible course of action. Always use baking ingredients as intended and prioritize evidence-based medical advice.
Healthline: What Is Cream of Tartar? Benefits, Uses, and Side Effects
