Drinking water with baking soda and salt is a popular natural remedy that is claimed to have various health benefits, such as improving digestion, hydration, and exercise performance. However, it is also controversial and potentially risky if not used properly. In this article, we’ll explore the evidence-based benefits and risks of drinking water with baking soda and salt, and provide tips on how to do it safely and effectively.
Benefits of Drinking Water with Baking Soda and Salt
Hydration: Adding a pinch of baking soda and salt to your water can help to balance your electrolyte levels, which are essential for hydration and muscle function.
Digestion: Baking soda is an alkaline compound that can neutralize stomach acid and reduce acid reflux, bloating, and indigestion. Salt can also stimulate the production of digestive juices and enzymes, aiding in the breakdown and absorption of nutrients.
Exercise performance: Some studies suggest that drinking baking soda and salt water before exercise can enhance endurance and delay fatigue by buffering lactic acid, a byproduct of intense physical activity.
Detoxification: Baking soda and salt water may help to cleanse the body by promoting urination and removing toxins through the skin.
Risks of Drinking Water with Baking Soda and Salt
Sodium overload: Adding too much salt to your water can raise your sodium intake and increase your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. The recommended daily intake of sodium is less than 2,300 mg for most adults, or 1,500 mg for those with certain health conditions.
Acid-base imbalance: Drinking baking soda water excessively can raise the pH level of your blood, which can lead to alkalosis, a condition that can cause nausea, vomiting, muscle twitching, and seizures. Baking soda can also interact with certain medications and supplements, such as aspirin and calcium.
Dehydration: Drinking too much water with baking soda and salt can also dilute your electrolyte levels, causing dehydration, cramps, and weakness.
How to Drink Water with Baking Soda and Salt Safely
Start with small amounts: To avoid the risks of sodium overload and alkalosis, start with a pinch of baking soda and salt per 8 ounces of water, and gradually increase if needed.
Use high-quality ingredients: Choose baking soda and salt that are pure and free of contaminants, such as aluminum or microplastics. Pink Himalayan salt is a popular option that contains trace minerals and antioxidants.
Limit frequency: Drinking baking soda and salt water too often or for prolonged periods can be harmful to your health. It is recommended to drink it no more than once or twice a day, and not for more than a week at a time.
Monitor your body’s response: Pay attention to how your body reacts to drinking baking soda and salt water, and stop if you experience any adverse effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, or cramps.
Consult your doctor: If you have any medical conditions or take any medications, consult your doctor before drinking baking soda and salt water, as it may interact with them or worsen your health.
How to Make Baking Soda and Salt Water
Ingredients:
8 ounces of purified water
1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda
A pinch of high-quality salt, such as pink Himalayan salt
Directions:
Boil the water and let it cool to room temperature, or use room temperature water.
Add the baking soda and salt and stir until dissolved.
Drink immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Frequently asked questions about Drinking Water with Baking Soda and Salt
Is Drinking Baking Soda and Salt Good for You?
Drinking baking soda and salt in water can have some potential benefits, such as improving digestion, reducing inflammation, and promoting hydration. However, it’s important to note that excessive consumption can lead to health risks.
Is it OK to Drink Water with Salt and Baking Soda?
Drinking water with salt and baking soda is generally safe in moderation. However, it’s important to use the recommended amounts and avoid excessive consumption.
How Often Should You Drink Baking Soda and Salt?
It’s generally recommended to drink baking soda and salt in water no more than once or twice a week, as excessive consumption can lead to health risks.
Is it Safe to Drink Baking Soda in Water?
Drinking baking soda in water can be safe in moderation, but excessive consumption can lead to health risks, such as alkalosis, kidney stones, and digestive issues.
How Much Baking Soda is Safe per Day?
The recommended daily intake of baking soda is no more than 1/2 teaspoon or 3 grams per day.
How Often Should I Drink Baking Soda Water?
It’s generally recommended to drink baking soda water no more than once or twice a week in moderation.
Is Baking Soda Good for Your Liver?
There is some evidence that suggests baking soda may have potential benefits for liver health, such as reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. However, more research is needed to fully understand its effects.
Why Do Athletes Drink Baking Soda?
Athletes may drink baking soda before exercise to help buffer lactic acid buildup and improve performance. However, it’s important to note that excessive consumption can lead to health risks.
Is Baking Soda Good for Kidney?
Baking soda may have potential benefits for kidney health, such as reducing the risk of kidney stones and improving kidney function. However, excessive consumption can lead to health risks.
Who Should Not Take Baking Soda?
People with certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and kidney disease, should avoid consuming baking soda. Additionally, pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult with a healthcare provider before consuming baking soda.
What are the Side Effects of Baking Soda?
Excessive consumption of baking soda can lead to health risks, such as alkalosis, kidney stones, and digestive issues. Additionally, baking soda can interact with certain medications and cause adverse reactions.
What Does Baking Soda Do in Your Body?
Baking soda can help to neutralize acid in the body, which can have potential benefits for digestion and reducing inflammation. However, excessive consumption can lead to health risks.
Baking Soda and Salt Water Benefits
Drinking water with baking soda and salt can have potential benefits, such as improving digestion, reducing inflammation, promoting hydration, and potentially relieving toothache. Additionally, adding pink Himalayan salt to the water can provide minerals and electrolytes.
Baking Soda and Salt Water Side Effects
Excessive consumption of baking soda and salt water can lead to health risks, such as alkalosis, kidney stones, and digestive issues. Additionally, adding too much salt to the water can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
Conclusion
In summary, drinking water with baking soda and salt can provide some potential health benefits, such as improving digestion, reducing inflammation, and promoting hydration. However, it’s important to use caution and moderation when consuming baking soda and salt, as excessive intake can lead to negative side effects such as electrolyte imbalances and high blood pressure. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your diet or supplement routine. Additionally, while drinking baking soda and salt water may have some benefits, it should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment or prescribed medications.
