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Most bizarre and interesting trends we see on various social media platforms originate on TikTok. The latest one has content creators and health experts raving about the benefits of drinking baking soda water. That’s right, the poplar baking ingredient has found its way as a potent anti-inflammatory ingredient. But, are there any health risks associated with it? Indianexpress.com spoke to nutrition experts to understand this.
“Baking soda has the ability to neutralise stomach acid, providing relief from heartburn and indigestion. This helps in maintaining kidney health as it limits and reduces the amount of acid accumulating in the blood. This, otherwise, can be dangerous or lethal to someone with a chronic kidney disease,” said Veena V, chief clinical dietician, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru.
Baking soda water is also consumed by athletes at times to help buffer lactic acid build up before intense events, increasing performance and decreasing muscular fatigue, she said.
While baking soda water can be beneficial, Veena said that its intake should be carefully moderated as it can potentially cause:
High blood pressure – Baking soda has a high amount of sodium in it. Including this drink in the diet of someone with fluctuating blood pressure can result in a risk of heart attack and should be absolutely avoided.
Alkalosis – Excessive intake of baking soda water can cause alkalosis, a condition where the body’s pH becomes too alkaline. This can lead to symptoms like muscle twitching, hand tremors, and nausea.
Interactions with medications – Baking soda can react with certain medications, including those for heart disease. It also absorbs some medications, potentially reducing their effectiveness.
Hypertension – Although rarely noticed, changes in the chemical levels of the body caused by baking soda solution can cause hypertension and restlessness I some people.
According to the dietitian, careful consumption of baking soda water and in limited amounts, could be very beneficial.
“Individuals can start by mixing ¼ to ½ teaspoon of baking soda into a huge glass of water and drinking the same once or twice a day. It should be consumed two hours apart from other prescriptions and one to two hours after eating,” said Veena.
Veena said that being mindful of one’s overall sodium intake is also helpful as it will avoid causing blood pressure problems and electrolyte imbalance. “If people have pre-existing conditions or are taking any medications, consulting a doctor before taking baking soda as a regular part in your diet is important,” Veena said.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
