{"version":"1.0","provider_name":"Watchman News","provider_url":"https:\/\/watchman.news\/pl","author_name":"Admin","author_url":"https:\/\/watchman.news\/pl\/author\/admin\/","title":"The Surprising Health Benefits of Baking Soda - Watchman News","type":"rich","width":600,"height":338,"html":"<blockquote class=\"wp-embedded-content\" data-secret=\"mUGE4ruGuK\"><a href=\"https:\/\/watchman.news\/pl\/2026\/04\/the-surprising-health-benefits-of-baking-soda\/\">The Surprising Health Benefits of Baking Soda<\/a><\/blockquote><iframe sandbox=\"allow-scripts\" security=\"restricted\" src=\"https:\/\/watchman.news\/pl\/2026\/04\/the-surprising-health-benefits-of-baking-soda\/embed\/#?secret=mUGE4ruGuK\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" title=\"&#8222;The Surprising Health Benefits of Baking Soda&#8221; &#8212; Watchman News\" data-secret=\"mUGE4ruGuK\" frameborder=\"0\" marginwidth=\"0\" marginheight=\"0\" scrolling=\"no\" class=\"wp-embedded-content\"><\/iframe><script type=\"text\/javascript\">\n\/* <![CDATA[ *\/\n\/*! This file is auto-generated *\/\n!function(d,l){\"use strict\";l.querySelector&&d.addEventListener&&\"undefined\"!=typeof URL&&(d.wp=d.wp||{},d.wp.receiveEmbedMessage||(d.wp.receiveEmbedMessage=function(e){var t=e.data;if((t||t.secret||t.message||t.value)&&!\/[^a-zA-Z0-9]\/.test(t.secret)){for(var s,r,n,a=l.querySelectorAll('iframe[data-secret=\"'+t.secret+'\"]'),o=l.querySelectorAll('blockquote[data-secret=\"'+t.secret+'\"]'),c=new RegExp(\"^https?:$\",\"i\"),i=0;i<o.length;i++)o[i].style.display=\"none\";for(i=0;i<a.length;i++)s=a[i],e.source===s.contentWindow&&(s.removeAttribute(\"style\"),\"height\"===t.message?(1e3<(r=parseInt(t.value,10))?r=1e3:~~r<200&&(r=200),s.height=r):\"link\"===t.message&&(r=new URL(s.getAttribute(\"src\")),n=new URL(t.value),c.test(n.protocol))&&n.host===r.host&&l.activeElement===s&&(d.top.location.href=t.value))}},d.addEventListener(\"message\",d.wp.receiveEmbedMessage,!1),l.addEventListener(\"DOMContentLoaded\",function(){for(var e,t,s=l.querySelectorAll(\"iframe.wp-embedded-content\"),r=0;r<s.length;r++)(t=(e=s[r]).getAttribute(\"data-secret\"))||(t=Math.random().toString(36).substring(2,12),e.src+=\"#?secret=\"+t,e.setAttribute(\"data-secret\",t)),e.contentWindow.postMessage({message:\"ready\",secret:t},\"*\")},!1)))}(window,document);\n\/\/# sourceURL=https:\/\/watchman.news\/wp-includes\/js\/wp-embed.min.js\n\/* ]]> *\/\n<\/script>","description":"A New Series of Health Insights Is on the\u00a0Way   IMPORTANT  A New Series of Health Insights Is on the\u00a0Way Our team has been working behind the scenes to prepare new research and practical health strategies for our readers. While we finish preparing what\u2019s coming next, we invite you to explore one of the most-read articles from our library below. See exactly what's changing \u2192            Baking soda is one of those ubiquitous, all-around items you always have at home, but did you know that aside from making your homemade bread fluffier and your refrigerator or cabinets smell fresher, it has a wide range of uses outside the kitchen as well?  From health and hygiene to everyday household tasks, baking soda has quietly earned its place as a trusted remedy in many homes \u2014 and science is starting to take notice of its potential, too.          What Is Baking Soda and Why Is It So Useful?  Also known as sodium bicarbonate, baking soda (NaHCO\u2083) is a white crystalline powder that\u2019s composed of sodium, hydrogen, carbon, and oxygen. It\u2019s a naturally alkaline compound \u2014 in fact, one of its main functions is to maintain pH balance by neutralizing excess acids or bases. Here are some more interesting facts about this product:   \u2022 Baking soda existed in nature 4 million years ago \u2014 When salt lakes worldwide evaporated, they formed mineral deposits called trona. This is a rock that\u2019s then processed into soda ash (sodium carbonate). Soda ash is a naturally occurring mineral that\u2019s then processed into baking soda. So while this product can be produced synthetically, the majority of commercially sold brands still come from these natural mineral deposits. In the U.S., the largest trona deposits are found in Wyoming.1  \u2022 It gained widespread attention during the 19th century \u2014 American bakers Austin Church and John Dwight founded the first baking soda factory in 1846, called Church &amp; Co. When Church\u2019s son joined the company, he changed the company name to Arm &amp; Hammer, and also created the company\u2019s iconic logo.2  \u2022 Baking soda\u2019s power lies in its alkalinity \u2014 It measures around 8.3 on the pH scale, which is just above neutral. This means it effectively counteracts substances with low pH (acids), making it useful for addressing acid-related issues such as heartburn or even skin irritations.  When it\u2019s mixed with an acid \u2014 like vinegar or lemon juice \u2014 this compound acts as a chemical leavener and produces carbon dioxide gas. This is the bubbly lift needed in recipes to make cakes and cookies rise, giving them a moist and fluffy texture.3  \u2022 Did you know that your body naturally produces baking soda, too? In the video above, Dr. Eric Berg explains how this works:4  \u201cIn the stomach, you have this super acidic mixture \u2014 a pH between 1 and 3 \u2014 and then it goes into the small intestine, where it should go up to maybe 6 or 7, sometimes even 7.5 ... The neutralization of stomach acid is very important. If we don't neutralize the stomach acid, we get severe irritation and inflammation in the small intestine. Sodium bicarbonate from the pancreas helps to neutralize this acid.   Bicarbonate isn\u2019t only produced by the pancreas. The bile ducts \u2014 the small tubes connecting the liver and the gallbladder \u2014 also secrete bicarbonate.\u201d   8 Ways to Use Baking Soda for Your Health  Baking soda\u2019s acid-neutralizing property makes it a versatile remedy for various ailments. Its ability to adjust pH levels has been studied not just for digestive comfort, but also for enhancing athletic performance, soothing skin issues, and even supporting the body's immune and inflammatory responses. Below are some notable uses of this compound:5,6,7   1. Provides digestive relief \u2014 Baking soda\u2019s ability to neutralize excess stomach acid provides fast relief from indigestion, heartburn, and acid reflux. Do this by diluting a small amount \u2014 typically a 1\/4 teaspoon in a cup of water \u2014 and sipping it whenever symptoms arise.  2. Protects against inflammation \u2014 Conditions like arthritis and gout are rooted in inflammation, and drinking a tonic made from baking soda and water will help lower inflammation. According to research, the antacid properties of baking soda help shift proinflammatory immune cells to anti-inflammatory ones.8 Read more about baking soda\u2019s anti-inflammatory effects in this article, \u201cBaking Soda \u2014 Inexpensive Treatment for Autoimmune Diseases.\u201d  3. Promotes better oral health and hygiene \u2014 Thanks to its mild abrasiveness and alkalinity, baking soda helps remove surface stains on teeth, freshen breath, and reduce plaque buildup. Many toothpastes include baking soda to neutralize acids that erode enamel and create an inhospitable environment for harmful bacteria. Mouth rinses made with baking soda and water will also soothe canker sores, reduce acidity in the mouth, and support gum health.  To use it for teeth whitening, the Hearty Soul recommends mixing equal parts baking soda and water, then brushing it gently for two minutes, then rinsing thoroughly.9 For gargling, add half a teaspoon to four ounces of warm water and gargle as you would a mouthwash. This needs to be done in moderation.  4. Enhances your physical performance \u2014 When you exercise rigorously, your body produces lactic acid, which lowers the pH in muscle tissues and contributes to fatigue. Consuming baking soda before a workout may help buffer this lactic acid, delaying the onset of fatigue and improving endurance.  For athletes and fitness enthusiasts, a 2021 study recommends taking 300 milligrams of baking soda for every kilogram of body weight to reap its benefits. Ideally, take it between 60 and 180 minutes before your workout session.10  5. Reduces risk of chronic kidney disease \u2014 Some studies11,12 support the use of baking soda in slowing the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). In these cases, sodium bicarbonate supplementation helps neutralize acid levels in the blood, easing the burden on compromised kidneys. It\u2019s believed that lowering blood acidity helps reduce damage to kidney tissue and delay disease advancement.  6. Eases urinary tract infections \u2014 Baking soda helps alkalize urine, offering relief for individuals prone to urinary tract infections (UTIs). When your urine is more alkaline, it creates an environment that helps minimize the growth of certain bacteria, helping reduce irritation and discomfort during infections.  7. Provides relief for bug bites, rashes, or sunburn \u2014 Make a paste using water and baking soda and apply it to the affected area to ease pain, itching, and redness. You can also add a cup or two to your lukewarm bathwater and soak in it. This remedy is also recommended to calm symptoms of psoriasis or eczema.  8. Works as a natural deodorant \u2014 Baking soda combats body odor because its alkaline nature decreases acidity in your underarms. When you sweat, the sweat itself doesn\u2019t stink; however, when bacteria in your armpits break down this fluid into acidic waste, it causes bad odor to form. Pat baking soda directly on your underarms or by mixing it with a small amount of shea butter or coconut oil, then applying it on your underarms.    How Baking Soda Helps Support Cancer Treatment  One area where baking soda shows promise is cancer treatment; according to animal studies, baking soda\u2019s alkalinity may contribute to slowing down cancer growth by creating a less favorable environment for tumors.   \u2022 Creating a more alkaline environment for tumors can help inhibit their growth \u2014 Cancer tumors are highly acidic, which helps them thrive and become resistant to treatments.13 Researchers investigated whether baking soda may be particularly beneficial in making the tumor\u2019s environment alkaline and less conducive for growth.  \u2022 \u201cTumor alkalizing therapy\u201d showed promising results \u2014 A 2024 animal study published in Frontiers in Oncology found that when mice with Ehrlich ascites carcinoma were given a baking soda solution, their lifespan was extended by 30 days more; to compare, mice that were given sodium chloride lived only 14 to 18 days longer. This showed that reducing the acidity around the tumors seemed to slow down the cancer\u2019s progress.14  \u2022 They also tried this strategy with a human patient \u2014 The female patient was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, and had a buildup of fluid in her abdomen (ascites). She also wasn\u2019t responding to chemotherapy. After receiving baking soda solution directly into her abdomen, her cancer marker levels significantly dropped, and the ascites disappeared.  \u201cThe preclinical and clinical results obtained using sodium bicarbonate perfusion in the treatment of malignant ascites represent a small yet significant contribution to the evolving field of tumor alkalization as a cancer therapy. They unequivocally affirm the good prospects of this concept,\u201d the researchers concluded.15   While human research is still needed, these findings are promising and highlight the potential of baking soda as a supportive therapy. Another way by which baking soda may help with cancer is by easing the discomfort of cancer treatments. An article in Everyday Health recommends swishing your mouth with a mixture of baking soda, salt, and water to ease throat discomfort caused by chemotherapy or radiation. It also helps mouth sores from getting infected.16    Cleans, Deodorizes, and Protects \u2014 Baking Soda Uses for Your Home  While most people use baking soda to make fluffy cakes and chewy cookies, its usefulness stretches far beyond the mixing bowl. Whether you're looking to ditch harsh chemical cleaners or find safe, affordable ways to freshen your home, this simple but versatile powder offers a powerful alternative. Here are some ways to use baking soda for household chores.    \u2022 Baking soda neutralizes and eliminates odors \u2014 Since odors are usually caused by acidic substances, baking soda\u2019s alkalinity breaks them down at the molecular level. That\u2019s why leaving a box of baking soda in the refrigerator or freezer is so effective at eliminating food smells. But you shouldn\u2019t stop there, because there are many ways to use this product around the house:  \u25e6Sprinkle it into the bottom of garbage cans, diaper pails, and litter boxes \u25e6Dust it all over musty-smelling carpets, cushions, or mattresses, letting it sit for 30 minutes before vacuuming \u25e6Remove pet odors from your dog\u2019s bed   \u2022 Adding it to your laundry brightens clothes and removes odors \u2014 When your washing machine is in the rinse cycle, add a cup of baking soda to remove mildew smell. It also softens water, enhancing the effectiveness of your detergent. You can also pre-treat stains using a baking soda and water paste. Apply it to the stained area, let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes, and then wash as usual. This works well for food, oil, and even sweat stains.  \u2022 Wash your fresh fruits and vegetables with it \u2014 If you frequently buy conventionally grown produce, baking soda will help reduce your exposure to pesticides on the surface of your foods. One study found that soaking fruits like apples in a solution of baking soda and water removed 80% to 96% of pesticides from the surface \u2014 more effectively than either water alone or commercial rinses.17  To make your own produce wash, fill a clean basin or sink with water and add about four teaspoons of baking soda. Soak your fruits and vegetables for at least five minutes, then rinse thoroughly.  \u2022 Clean your jewelry and silverware \u2014 Baking soda even helps you restore shine to tarnished silver and dull jewelry. When combined with hot water and a piece of aluminum foil in a nonmetallic bowl, baking soda initiates an ion exchange that lifts tarnish off silver. Just soak the items for a few minutes and then rinse and dry thoroughly.   Use a soft toothbrush to help clean oils and dirt from surfaces, especially in hard-to-reach crevices. This method is especially appealing for those looking to avoid abrasive commercial silver polishes.  \u2022 Use it as a drain cleaner \u2014 Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by an equal amount of vinegar. Allow the mixture to fizz and sit for 15 to 20 minutes before flushing with hot water. While it won\u2019t replace a commercial-strength clog remover for serious blockages, it\u2019s great for routine maintenance and keeping pipes smelling fresh.    How to Use Baking Soda Safely  While baking soda offers many benefits, remember that it is not without side effects \u2014 but only when used incorrectly or excessively. Bloating, gas, nausea, metabolic alkalosis (when the body\u2019s pH is too high), or electrolyte imbalances due to its high sodium content could occur when used in high amounts. Here are a few precautions to keep in mind:   \u2022 If you\u2019re ingesting baking soda, you need to moderate its intake \u2014 The Hearty Soul recommends starting small, typically half a teaspoon dissolved in a glass of water.  \u2022 Baking soda\u2019s abrasive nature can damage your enamel \u2014 If you\u2019re brushing with it, always gargle with plain water after.  \u2022 It could dry out your skin \u2014 If you\u2019re soaking in a baking soda bath or using a homemade baking soda paste on your skin, make sure to moisturize afterward with a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer or coconut oil to prevent dryness or irritation.   Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Baking Soda     Q: What are the main health benefits of baking soda? A: Baking soda helps relieve indigestion, soothe heartburn, reduce inflammation, improve oral hygiene, enhance physical performance, support kidney health, and help manage conditions like UTIs and skin irritations.    Q: How does baking soda help with digestion and acid-related issues? A: Its alkalizing properties help neutralize excess stomach acid, offering fast relief from acid reflux, heartburn, and indigestion. It also supports enzyme activation in the small intestine for better digestion.    Q: Can baking soda really support cancer treatment? A: Preliminary studies suggest baking soda may help by making the area around tumors less acidic, which could slow their growth. Early research in mice and one human case showed promising results.    Q: How can baking soda be used for skin, hygiene, and fitness? A: It helps whiten teeth, soothe canker sores, calm rashes and sunburn, and act as a natural deodorant. Athletes use it to delay fatigue by buffering lactic acid during intense workouts.    Q: Are there household uses for baking soda beyond cooking? A: Yes, it neutralizes odors in refrigerators, carpets, and laundry; cleans drains, silverware, and produce; and works as a nontoxic cleaner \u2014 all while being affordable and eco-friendly.","thumbnail_url":"https:\/\/media.mercola.com\/assets\/images\/mercola\/bestarticles-icon.png"}