Easy Ways to Use Baking Soda for Inflammation Relief

Inflammation relief could be as simple as using baking soda, with some studies finding it may aid conditions like arthritis by altering immune cell activity. Consult your healthcare provider before trying this easy, cost-effective method to ensure it aligns with your health needs.

Discover Everyday Health Uses of Baking Soda

Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is a chemical compound commonly found in:

• Cleaning agents
• Deodorizers
• Over-the-counter (OTC) medications, like Alka-Seltzer

Baking soda is usually available as a white powder, but you can also find it in capsules and solutions. This versatility makes it a popular treatment option for many ailments.

Baking soda shows promise for several health conditions, including:

• Oral health issues: Helps with canker sores by restoring the mouth’s acid balance
• Digestive issues: Eases heartburn and upset stomach by reducing stomach acid
• Kidney disease: May improve kidney function and slow disease progression
• Chemotherapy effectiveness: Could lower inflammation and impede tumor growth
• Body odor: Neutralizes sweat odor

Baking soda may also improve stamina levels in athletes.

Can Baking Soda Really Soothe Inflammation?

Inflammation is a component of many diseases. It causes pain and various other symptoms.

Consuming baking soda may help create an anti-inflammatory environment in the body. A 2018 study demonstrated that both animals and humans who drank water mixed with baking soda had reduced inflammation from autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It seemed to affect immune cells known as macrophages.

Macrophages play a key role in the inflammatory process. When they detect a threat like a virus, they send signals that trigger inflammation.

Researchers found that baking soda caused macrophages to change these signals. Instead of an attack signal, they send a calming message, reducing inflammation.

The study suggests there is potential for baking soda to be a practical, cost-effective, and relatively safe method to activate anti-inflammatory pathways and treat inflammatory diseases. However, more research is needed to determine its effectiveness for autoimmune diseases like RA.

How to Use Baking Soda for Inflammation

In an inflammation study, scientists began with a small amount of baking soda, gradually increasing it. Participants sipped it throughout the day.

Participants began with 1/8 teaspoon of baking soda in 20 ounces of water a few times a week. They increased to 1/4 teaspoon in the same amount of water. The study evaluated baking soda intake for only two weeks, so long-term effects are unknown.

Consult your healthcare provider before using baking soda medicinally, and ask how long to use it. Then, note any changes, positive or negative.

Potential Risks

Baking soda can cause side effects ranging from mild to severe and may interact with certain medications.

Common side effects include:

• Nausea
• Cramps
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

You can do a few things to reduce or avoid these effects:

• Avoid use on an empty stomach. Try drinking it later in the day. 
• Start small. Begin with 1/8 teaspoon and gradually increase to 1/4 teaspoon.
• Check sodium levels. Baking soda is high in sodium. Consult your provider to ensure your levels aren’t too high before starting.

Serious Side Effects

Baking soda is generally safe when used correctly. Still, speak to your healthcare provider beforehand, as they may be aware of potential issues you aren’t.

Avoid consuming large amounts of baking soda or using it long-term, as it can cause severe side effects such as:

• Respiratory issues (breathing problems)
• Cardiac concerns (heart issues)
• Neurological effects (brain and nerve problems)
• Kidney complications
• Electrolyte imbalances
• Dangerously low potassium levels (hypokalemia)

Drug Interactions

Baking soda might impact how your body absorbs medications, including:

• Prescription drugs
• Over-the-counter products
• Supplements

Ask your healthcare provider and pharmacist if baking soda may cause problems with anything you’re taking.