The Answer to Heartburn May Be In Your Cupboard

Acid reflux is caused when acid in the stomach backs up into the esophagus. This condition can come with a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, including heartburn, nausea and regurgitation. For individuals with occasional acid reflux, this pantry staple could provide quick relief from the discomfort.

Baking Soda is the household name for sodium bicarbonate, an ingredient regularly included in the antacid medications used to treat acid reflux. Baking soda is believed to respond to stomach acids much like the sodium bicarbonate the body makes. Adults and children experiencing acid reflux can consume half a teaspoon of baking soda, dissolved into 4 ounces of water, every 2 hours to manage their discomfort.

Baking Soda and Stomach Acid

Sodium bicarbonate is used in over-the-counter antacid medications because of its ability to neutralize the acid in the stomach. It is the only ingredient in baking soda, making this household ingredient a  good option if you’re looking for immediate relief from the symptoms of acid reflux.

To take baking soda, dissolve ½ teaspoon in 4 ounces of water. Once the baking soda has dissolved entirely, drink slowly. This dosage can be repeated every 2 hours, but no more than seven ½ teaspoon doses should be taken over the course of a single day.

Who Can Take Baking Soda for Acid Reflux?

Large meals, spicy and fatty foods and eating before bed can trigger acid reflux. Individuals who are pregnant, overweight or smoke may experience acid reflux more frequently. For those looking for occasional, immediate relief from mild to moderate acid reflux symptoms, baking soda is a great choice.

Baking soda is high in sodium, containing as much as one-third of the daily value of sodium recommended by the FDA. For this reason, individuals following a low sodium diet should avoid this method of acid reflux symptom management. Taking baking soda to treat acid reflux should be avoided by women who are pregnant and children under the age of 6.

Taking too much sodium bicarbonate could actually make your symptoms worse because of acid rebound. Acid rebound takes place when the body responds to acid suppression by overcompensating and creating more acid than before.

Individuals who experience persistent and severe symptoms of acid reflux should meet with a doctor. Their symptoms may indicate the development of GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, a chronic condition that can cause damage to the esophagus and lead to other health complications if left untreated.

~ Here’s to Your Health and Wellness