How Effective Is Baking Soda for Heartburn?
Heartburn is uncomfortable for anyone, and many people have suggested using baking soda for heartburn. This may seem like a good idea, because it is readily accessible in almost anyone's kitchen and does not seem dangerous. But is baking soda safe for us to use? Does baking soda for heartburn really work?
Baking soda is chemically known as sodium bicarbonate. It is alkaline, so it can neutralize the stomach acid that causes heartburn, relieving the burning sensation that heartburn is known for.
How to Use Baking Soda for Heartburn
In order to use baking soda for heartburn, add 1/2 tsp. baking soda to 4 ounces of warm water, stir it until it is a clear liquid, and then drink it! The amount of baking soda can be increased (up to a couple of teaspoons), or you can make another glass of baking soda water if you do not feel the heartburn go away shortly after drinking it.
If you brush your teeth after using baking soda for heartburn, the baking soda will help whiten your teeth as an added bonus. And many people say that after using baking soda, for their heartburn they do not suffer heartburn for days afterward.
Using baking soda is not a very delicious remedy for heartburn. It can taste awful to some people. Also, some of those who use baking soda for heartburn say that it makes them burp - so be prepared for that possibility. Also, using baking soda for heartburn can raise your blood pressure, so if you already have high blood pressure or are sensitive to blood pressure changes, check with a doctor before you try using baking soda, or use an alternate something safe for you.
Some Alternatives to Baking Soda
If you want a rest from using baking soda for heartburn, you can use an antacid available over-the-counter. Some common ones are Rolaids and Tums. It is best to not use them on a continual basis, however. There are also other over-the-counter things that one can try, like an H2 Blockers, also known as H2-receptor antagonists. Some brands of these include Tagamet, Pepcid, and Zantac
The bottom line is, if you're really suffering from heartburn and do not have access to something else, or if you'd just like to try it to see if it works well for you, reach for the baking soda! Just remember that when you use baking soda for heartburn you need to exercise a little bit of caution.
