Sodium bicarbonate sources, health benefits and uses

Sodium bicarbonate, more commonly known as baking soda, is an odorless and non-toxic white crystalline powder that is touted for its strong antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. An entry posted on the open chemistry database Pub Chem has indicated that baking soda is the monosodium salt of carbonic acid. According to the entry, the slightly bitter compound is formed after a dissociation between sodium and bicarbonate ions. The article also noted that baking soda is traditionally used to buffer the body’s pH and replenish its electrolyte balance. The compound is used as a systemic alkalizer and topical cleansing solution as well.

Medicinal uses for sodium bicarbonate

Sodium bicarbonate is best known for its many beneficial effects on the body’s digestive profile. An article published on the Organic Facts website revealed that the compound is shown to contain antacid properties that help reduce gastric acidity, heartburn, and indigestion. Baking soda is found to alleviate peptic ulcer disease and diarrhea as well. The antacid effects of sodium bicarbonate are greatly amplified especially when taken with lemon juice. Taking sodium bicarbonate with lemon juice is found to relieve various digestive conditions such as excess gas, bloating and cramping. The mixture is also shown to induce healthy weight loss.

Baking soda is touted to prevent nutrient deficiency too. The compound is notably high in sodium, which in turn may promote muscle strength and nerve function. Likewise, sodium bicarbonate is shown to reduce the risk of developing hyperkalemia or very high potassium levels. The condition is known to stem from acidosis or high acidity levels. Taking baking soda with lemon juice is touted to ensure ideal blood pressure levels and promote heart health as well. The mixture is found to reduce bad cholesterol levels while simultaneously increasing good cholesterol rates. This effect helps lower the odds of atherosclerosis, stroke and heart attack.

In addition, sodium bicarbonate is notably effective in maintaining a healthy urinary tract. Baking soda is shown to alleviate kidney stones and renal tubular acidosis. Adding lemon juice to baking soda is also known to provide a potent diuretic effect that rids the body of toxins, salts, fats, and excess water. Another Organic Facts article also stressed that the mixture may help fortify the body’s immunity against a plethora of diseases. According to the article, the strong antibacterial properties of lemon  juice combats potential disease-causing pathogens, while baking soda’s alkalizing effects prevent acidosis and the subsequent onset of infections such as colds and flu.

Baking soda, either alone or in combination with lemon juice, is touted to promote oral health as well. The compound’s antibacterial properties help eliminate oral bacteria that cause a host of dental problems. The abrasive properties of baking soda also makes it an ideal teeth cleanser. The antioxidant effects of both baking soda and lemon juice are also shown to lower the odds of developing cancers and skin diseases.

Body systems supported by sodium bicarbonate

Sodium bicarbonate is particularly beneficial in maintaining both oral and digestive health. Likewise, the compound helps maintain heart health, muscle strength and nerve function. Baking soda also supports the urinary tract, the immune system and the skin.

Where to learn more

• 7 Collective Use Of Baking Soda Daily as a Medicine
• How To Repair Your Kidneys Naturally Using Baking Soda
• Five Amazing Non-Dietary Uses for Baking Soda
• 7 Baking Soda Health Remedies that May Surprise You
• Baking Soda Prevents Kidney Disease, Renal Failure and Kidney Dialysis

Summary

Sodium bicarbonate prevents cancer, digestive issues and renal diseases.

Sodium bicarbonate staves off infections, cardiovascular diseases and skin issues.

Sodium bicarbonate is particularly beneficial to both oral and digestive health.

Sodium bicarbonate supports the heart, muscles and the central nervous system.

Sodium bicarbonate helps maintain healthy urinary tract, skin and immune system.

Sources include:

PubChem.NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov

OrganicFacts.com 1

OrganicFacts.com 2