The chemistry and quality of Arm & Hammer baking soda
Baking soda is the common name for sodium bicarbonate ($NaHCO_3$), an alkaline chemical compound. Arm & Hammer baking soda is made from 100% pure, food-grade sodium bicarbonate, meaning it is purified to strict standards and does not contain harmful impurities found in industrial-grade versions. This means that, chemically speaking, it is safe to consume in small, medically appropriate amounts. However, its drinkability is a matter of caution and moderation, not general health promotion, due to its powerful effects on the body's acid-base balance and high sodium content.
Specific applications of drinking baking soda
Under strict medical supervision, drinking a small amount of baking soda mixed with water is sometimes used for specific, temporary health issues. For many, this has become a viral trend, but the scientific evidence for its benefits is limited and often overshadowed by potential risks.
Temporary relief for heartburn and acid indigestion
Baking soda acts as an antacid, neutralizing excess stomach acid and providing fast, temporary relief from heartburn and sour stomach. The active ingredient in some over-the-counter (OTC) antacids is sodium bicarbonate for this exact reason. This is only intended for occasional use and not as a long-term treatment.
Enhancing athletic performance
Athletes sometimes engage in a practice called "bicarbonate loading" to improve performance during high-intensity, short-duration exercise. Baking soda's buffering properties help neutralize lactic acid buildup in muscles, potentially delaying fatigue. This should only be done under professional guidance to avoid side effects like gastrointestinal distress.
Slowing the progression of kidney disease
In some patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD), metabolic acidosis can occur, where the blood becomes too acidic. Under close medical supervision, a daily dose of sodium bicarbonate can help neutralize this acidity and may slow the progression of the disease. This is a targeted, physician-prescribed treatment, not a general recommendation.
Significant risks of drinking baking soda
Despite its occasional uses, the health risks associated with drinking baking soda are substantial and often outweigh the benefits for the average person. Improper or excessive consumption can lead to serious health complications.
Potential dangers to be aware of:
- High Sodium Intake: Baking soda is extremely high in sodium. Excessive sodium intake can be dangerous for people with high blood pressure, heart failure, or kidney disease.
- Metabolic Alkalosis: Overuse can cause the blood to become overly alkaline, a life-threatening condition known as metabolic alkalosis. Symptoms include confusion, muscle twitching, seizures, and irregular heartbeat.
- Gastrointestinal Issues: The reaction of sodium bicarbonate with stomach acid produces carbon dioxide gas. Large doses can cause gas, bloating, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and in rare, severe cases, gastric rupture.
- Electrolyte Imbalance: Consuming too much baking soda can cause dehydration and disrupt the balance of electrolytes in the body, particularly leading to low potassium levels.
- Drug Interactions: Baking soda can interfere with the absorption of various medications by altering stomach acidity. It should not be taken within two hours of other medicines without medical guidance.
Safe and risky usage: A comparison
| Feature | Occasional, Medically Guided Use | Excessive or Long-Term Use |
|---|---|---|
| Intended Use | Temporary heartburn relief, athlete performance buffeting under supervision. | Long-term 'detox', chronic heartburn treatment without guidance. |
| Dosage | Small, measured amounts. | Unmeasured, large, or frequent doses. |
| Frequency | Intermittent, not for more than 2 weeks without a doctor's advice. | Daily or chronic consumption. |
| Health Impact | Possible temporary relief, performance boost, or kidney health support for specific conditions. | High sodium intake, metabolic alkalosis, electrolyte imbalance, gastric damage. |
| Safety Profile | Generally safe for most healthy adults in small, short-term doses with medical clearance. | Unsafe for many, especially those with pre-existing conditions; significant health risks. |
Recommendations and alternatives
For the average person experiencing frequent acid reflux, safer and more effective treatments are available. These include OTC antacids like calcium carbonate (e.g., Tums) or simethicone (e.g., Mylanta), which are formulated for safety and specific conditions. Lifestyle changes, such as modifying diet, avoiding trigger foods, and not lying down immediately after meals, are also highly recommended. If heartburn persists for more than two weeks, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional to rule out underlying conditions like GERD. For serious medical issues like metabolic acidosis or specific athletic training, a doctor or sports nutritionist should guide any supplementation with sodium bicarbonate.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Arm & Hammer baking soda is technically drinkable due to its pure, food-grade nature, it is not a safe or recommended beverage for casual consumption or long-term health benefits. The risks associated with its extremely high sodium content and its potential to cause dangerous metabolic alkalosis, electrolyte imbalance, and gastric damage far outweigh its limited and temporary uses. It is imperative to consult a healthcare provider before using baking soda for any medical purpose, particularly for pregnant women, children, and individuals with heart or kidney conditions. For temporary relief, precise, small doses are required, but safer, more reliable alternatives exist. For managing chronic health concerns, professional medical guidance is the only safe and effective path.
Heart.org offers detailed information on the risks of excessive sodium consumption.
