From the FDA Drug Label
Warnings Do not use this product if you are on a sodium-restricted diet unless directed by a doctor. As with any drug, if you are pregnant or nursing a baby, seek advise of a health professional before using this product. STOMACH WARNING: TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY, DO NOT TAKE UNTIL TABLET IS COMPLETELY DISSOLVED. DO NOT EXCEED RECOMMENDED DOSE.
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is not entirely safe for everyone as a supplement. Key warnings include:
- Not using the product if on a sodium-restricted diet unless directed by a doctor 1
- Seeking advice from a health professional if pregnant or nursing 1
- Stomach warning to avoid serious injury by not taking until the tablet is completely dissolved 1
- Not exceeding the recommended dose 1, 1
From the Research
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) can be a safe supplement for some people when used appropriately, but it's not recommended for regular or unsupervised use. For specific applications like occasional heartburn relief, adults can take 1/2 teaspoon dissolved in 4 ounces of water, waiting at least 2 hours after eating, with a maximum of seven 1/2 teaspoon doses in a 24-hour period. However, this should only be used occasionally (no more than 2 weeks) 2. Baking soda works by neutralizing stomach acid, which can temporarily relieve acid reflux or indigestion. However, it contains significant sodium (about 1,259mg per teaspoon), making it unsuitable for people with high blood pressure, heart or kidney conditions, or those on sodium-restricted diets. It can also cause side effects including gas, bloating, increased thirst, and stomach cramps. Long-term use can disrupt your body's acid-base balance, potentially leading to metabolic alkalosis, and may interact with certain medications by altering how they're absorbed 3, 4, 5. Before using baking soda as a supplement, consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you have existing health conditions or take medications. In fact, a recent study found that oral sodium bicarbonate did not improve a range of health measures in people aged ≥ 60 years with chronic kidney disease category 4 or 5 and mild acidosis, and is unlikely to be cost-effective for use in this patient group 6. Some key points to consider when using baking soda as a supplement include:
- Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing as needed
- Monitoring for side effects and adjusting the dose or discontinuing use if necessary
- Avoiding long-term use and only using baking soda for specific, occasional applications
- Consulting with a healthcare provider before using baking soda, especially if you have existing health conditions or take medications.