Understanding How Much Sodium Bicarbonate to Add to Drinking Water?

October 9, 2025 •

3 min read

According to health experts, there is no universally recommended safe daily amount for adding sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) to drinking water. Understanding how much sodium bicarbonate to add to drinking water? is crucial, as the appropriate approach varies significantly based on its intended purpose and individual health status.

Quick Summary

Using sodium bicarbonate in drinking water for temporary indigestion or adjusting water pH requires careful consideration of potential health risks. Professional guidance is essential, especially for regular use or if you have existing medical conditions. Sodium bicarbonate is high in sodium and overconsumption can be dangerous.

Key Points

Usage depends on purpose: The use of sodium bicarbonate in water varies based on whether it's for temporary indigestion relief, exploring athletic performance enhancement, or alkalinity adjustment.
Not for long-term use: For general health or indigestion, using baking soda water should be limited without consulting a doctor.
High sodium content: Baking soda is a significant source of sodium, which is a major concern for those with high blood pressure or heart disease.
Risk of alkalosis: Overconsumption can lead to a dangerous imbalance in the body's pH, called metabolic alkalosis, with severe health consequences.
Consult a healthcare provider: It is crucial to seek medical advice before using sodium bicarbonate, especially for regular intake or if you have pre-existing health conditions or are on medication.

The Science Behind Sodium Bicarbonate in Water

Sodium bicarbonate, commonly known as baking soda, is a weak base that can neutralize acids. When added to water, it increases the water's pH, making it more alkaline. This chemical property is the basis for its use as a home remedy for neutralizing stomach acid and its exploration in areas like sports nutrition. However, since it is a potent source of sodium, its consumption should be carefully managed, and it should never be viewed as a substitute for professional medical treatment.

Using Sodium Bicarbonate in Water for Different Purposes

There is no single correct answer to the question of how much sodium bicarbonate to add to drinking water, as the approach is entirely dependent on the desired outcome and the individual’s health status. Medical professionals strongly advise consulting a doctor before using it regularly.

For Temporary Indigestion and Heartburn Relief

For temporary relief of heartburn or sour stomach, sodium bicarbonate can be used to help neutralize stomach acid. It is important to dissolve it in water and sip it slowly to avoid gas build-up. This method is not intended for long-term or frequent use. Individuals should not rely on this for extended periods, as persistent symptoms may indicate an underlying condition requiring medical attention.

For Enhancing Athletic Performance

For athletes engaging in high-intensity anaerobic exercise, studies have explored the use of sodium bicarbonate to buffer lactic acid and potentially delay muscle fatigue. Due to the potential for significant gastrointestinal distress and high sodium content, athletes should only consider this under professional supervision.

For Creating Alkaline Water

If the goal is simply to make your drinking water more alkaline, a small amount of sodium bicarbonate can be added. This introduces sodium into the diet, which should be a consideration for those watching their sodium intake. It's worth noting that adding sodium bicarbonate is different from consuming naturally alkaline spring water.

For Medical Conditions

In a clinical setting, sodium bicarbonate can be prescribed by a doctor for specific medical conditions, such as metabolic acidosis related to severe chronic kidney disease. In these cases, the treatment is carefully managed by a healthcare provider based on the patient's blood tests and overall health. Self-medicating for such conditions is extremely dangerous and not recommended.

Risks and Side Effects of Consuming Sodium Bicarbonate

Using sodium bicarbonate without understanding its potential impact or using it regularly without medical supervision can lead to several serious health risks:

High Sodium Intake: Baking soda is a significant source of sodium. Excessive sodium intake is a major concern for people with high blood pressure, heart disease, or kidney problems.
Metabolic Alkalosis: Overconsumption of baking soda can alter the body's pH balance, leading to a condition called metabolic alkalosis. This can harm the heart, cause confusion, and reduce oxygen flow to tissues.
Gastrointestinal Distress: Taking too much, too quickly, or on a full stomach can lead to bloating, gas, nausea, and stomach pain.
Interactions with Medications: Sodium bicarbonate can interact with various drugs. Always consult a doctor if you are on medication before adding it to your water.

Comparison of Sodium Bicarbonate Usage in Water


Purpose	Considerations
Indigestion / Heartburn	Short-term use only. Sip slowly. Not for long-term treatment.
Athletic Performance	Potential for high sodium intake and side effects. Must be managed by a professional.
Alkaline Water	Adds sodium to your diet. Consider health conditions. Doesn't replicate benefits of naturally alkaline spring water.
Medical Treatment	Prescribed by a doctor for specific conditions. Dosage is highly specific and controlled by a physician. Never self-medicate.

Conclusion: Prioritizing Safety Over Trends

While adding a small amount of sodium bicarbonate to drinking water can serve as a temporary antacid or to adjust water pH, it is not a universally recommended health practice. The high sodium content poses significant risks for individuals with underlying health conditions, especially high blood pressure and heart or kidney disease. The potential for adverse effects and interactions with medications also makes it a substance that requires caution. Before making it a part of your regular routine, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider. Prioritizing proven health strategies and medical advice over trends is the safest approach for your long-term well-being.

For more detailed information on sodium bicarbonate and its medical applications, consult the Mayo Clinic's drug and supplement reference(https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/sodium-bicarbonate-oral-route-intravenous-route-subcutaneous-route/description/drg-20065950).

Frequently Asked Questions

No, it is not safe for most people to drink baking soda and water daily, as chronic use can lead to serious health problems like metabolic alkalosis and dangerously high sodium levels.

For temporary relief of heartburn, dissolving baking soda in water can help neutralize stomach acid. It is important to sip slowly and not rely on this method for ongoing issues.

Risks include high sodium intake, metabolic alkalosis (a dangerous pH imbalance), stomach pain, gas, nausea, and potentially severe interactions with medications.

There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that drinking baking soda water helps with weight loss. Focusing on a balanced diet and exercise is a more effective strategy.

The use of sodium bicarbonate for a child should always be discussed with a healthcare professional. Self-medicating children with baking soda is not recommended and can be dangerous.

Signs of using too much baking soda can include muscle spasms, nausea, irritability, mental confusion, and potentially dangerous heart problems.

People with heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney disease, liver disease, or those who are pregnant or taking certain medications should avoid drinking sodium bicarbonate water unless advised by a doctor.