Salts & Minerals · Salt
Baking Soda
Sodium bicarbonate (sodium hydrogen carbonate) · also called Sodium bicarbonate, bicarbonate of soda, bicarbonato de sodio
Baking soda is sodium bicarbonate, a white powder used in baking, cleaning and some toothpastes. It is also an antacid medicine. Swallowing too much can cause serious harm, including a sodium overload, a dangerous swing in blood chemistry and, after large amounts, rupture of the stomach. Doctors prescribe it for acid build-up in kidney disease, but trials have not shown clear kidney benefits. Sports and toothpaste studies show small effects. This page gives no amounts and no how-to steps.
General information, not medical advice. Last substantive update · Not medically reviewed. A named clinician has not signed off on this page. How this page is made
About Baking Soda
Baking soda is sodium bicarbonate. Swallowing too much can cause serious harm, including a dangerous swing in blood chemistry, high sodium and, after large amounts, stomach rupture. It is a recognised antacid medicine, and doctors prescribe it in kidney disease, but we found no good evidence that swallowing it as a home remedy helps. Sports trials show small effects and common stomach upset. Toothpaste with baking soda shows small plaque benefits.
Sodium, children and pregnancy
MedlinePlus says the medicine adds sodium to the body and asks people on a sodium-restricted diet to check with a doctor. It says not to give it to children under 12 unless a doctor says so, and to tell the doctor if pregnant or breastfeeding. Poison Control says to keep baking soda out of the reach of children.
What it is
Baking soda is the household name for sodium bicarbonate. It makes dough rise by releasing carbon dioxide, and it is used to absorb odours. It is also an antacid medicine, and doctors prescribe it to make blood or urine less acidic. Baking powder is a different product: baking soda plus a dry acid.
Sports and kidney studies
In sport it has been studied as a buffer for the acid made in hard exercise. Results are small and mixed, and stomach upset is common. In kidney disease, doctors may prescribe it to raise blood bicarbonate. Trials have not shown clear benefits for kidney function, and the largest trial in older adults found more adverse events with it.
Toothpaste and rinses
Toothpaste containing baking soda lowered plaque a little in single-use studies, with results only partly confirmed over time. Baking soda is a mild, low-abrasion ingredient. A rinse is spat out, not swallowed, and has only one small trial in heart-failure patients.
What heartburn guidance says
NHS suggests speaking to a pharmacist about antacids or alginates, and says they help in the short term but will not cure the problem. It advises seeing a GP if heartburn happens most days or comes with food sticking in the throat, frequent vomiting or unexplained weight loss.
At a glance
Traditional uses history, not proof
- Baking: it makes dough rise by releasing carbon dioxide (Poison Control).
- Antacid for heartburn and indigestion: a recognised medicine, but poison centres say not to use baking soda as a home antacid.
- Odour absorber in refrigerators and household cleaning (Poison Control).
Studied for research
- Swallowing risks: serious harm described in case reports and poison-centre series (high certainty of harm in reports)
- Sports performance: mixed; small effects in some sprint tests, negligible in continuous running, stomach upset common
- Acid build-up in kidney disease (under a doctor): mixed; raises blood bicarbonate, no clear kidney benefit
- Heartburn: recognised antacid, insufficient trial evidence read
- Toothpaste: low; promising plaque results, partly confirmed
- Mouth rinse: very low; one small trial in heart-failure patients
- Alkalizing or cancer claims: insufficient; no evidence
Main compounds
- Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3)
Common forms
- Household baking soda powder
- Prescribed sodium bicarbonate tablets or powder
- Toothpastes containing baking soda
- Sports supplements (capsules and powders)
Research links: MedlinePlus: Sodium Bicarbonate · Poison Control: My child got into the baking soda · NHS: Heartburn and acid reflux · Poison Help (US): 1-800-222-1222 · Research Library · Genes & Biomarkers Library
What it is and its history
- Accepted scientific name
- Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate; sodium hydrogen carbonate)
- Naming authority
- A mineral salt, not a plant, animal or fungus. PubChem lists sodium bicarbonate as CID 516892.
- Synonyms
- sodium bicarbonate; sodium hydrogen carbonate; bicarbonate of soda; NaHCO3
- Common names
- Baking soda (English); Bicarbonato de sodio (Spanish)
- Family or group
- Household salt (bicarbonate)
- Native range
- Not checked in the sources read.
- Habitat
- Not checked.
- Harvest and processing
- Not checked in the sources read.
- Look-alikes and adulterants
- Name: Baking powder; Note: Contains baking soda plus a dry acid such as cream of tartar (Poison Control). A different product.; Name: Other antacids such as calcium carbonate; Note: Poison Control describes calcium carbonate antacids as working similarly but much safer.
Traditional use and history history, not clinical proof
| Tradition or era | Documented use | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Kitchen leavening and odour absorber | Poison Control says baking soda is a leavening agent that makes bubbles of carbon dioxide in dough and is used to absorb odours in refrigerators. | s-poison-control-baking-soda |
| Home and medical antacid | MedlinePlus lists it as an antacid for heartburn and acid indigestion, and doctors may prescribe it to make blood or urine less acidic. A 1999 case report says baking soda has been used for decades as a home remedy for acid indigestion. | s-medlineplus-sodium-bicarbonate |
Traditional use shows how it was used. It does not show that it works or is safe today.
What is inside, and how it may work
What it contains and how those compounds act in cells and animals. Laboratory and animal mechanisms are not proven effects in people.
Main compounds
| Compound | Family | Where it is concentrated | Activity studied | Level of evidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sodium bicarbonate PubChem 516892 | bicarbonate salt | Not applicable | Releases bicarbonate and sodium when swallowed; neutralises acid and makes carbon dioxide gas in the stomach (Poison Control). 16 15 | Human data |
Mechanisms, receptors and pathways
| Target or pathway | Gene or receptor | What was found | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stomach acid | Neutralises acid and rapidly makes carbon dioxide gas, which can raise pressure in the stomach (Poison Control). 15 | Human data | |
| Blood acid-base balance | Absorbed bicarbonate can push blood too alkaline (metabolic alkalosis); in kidney disease it raised blood bicarbonate in trials. 18 11 | Human data | |
| Sodium balance | Adds sodium to the body; high sodium can cause seizures and dehydration (Poison Control). 15 3 | Human data | |
| Exercise acid buffering | Proposed to buffer acid made in hard exercise; trial effects are small and inconsistent. 13 9 4 | Human data |
Absorption, metabolism and elimination
- Absorption
- Not described in the sources read beyond that sodium and bicarbonate are absorbed and change blood chemistry.
- Distribution
- Not described.
- Metabolism
- Not described.
- Elimination
- Not described. Poison Control says kidneys have to deal with excess sodium; kidney disease raises risk.
- Bioavailability
- Not described.
Isolated compounds versus whole extracts
Baking soda is a purified chemical salt, not a whole food. It is the same compound as the medicine sodium bicarbonate.
Nutritional composition
Baking soda adds sodium to the diet and is not a nutrient source.
2 mixed findings1 low certainty1 very low certainty2 not enough evidence
What was looked at
The 6 benefits and uses checked for Baking Soda, each with how strong the evidence is. Tap one to open it.
- Sports performance (repeated sprints and short hard efforts)Mixed findings
- Heartburn and acid indigestion (as an antacid)Not enough evidence
- Acid build-up (metabolic acidosis) in chronic kidney disease, under medical careMixed findings
- Baking soda toothpaste (plaque and gum bleeding)Low certainty
- Gargling or rinsing with a baking soda solutionVery low certainty
- Alkalizing the body, or preventing or treating cancerNot enough evidence
Lab markers tracked in the studies
Blood bicarbonate (serum bicarbonate)Kidney filtration (eGFR)Power in repeated sprintsDental plaque scoreTongue coating index (Winkel)
What is Baking Soda good for?
The uses people ask about and how strong the human evidence is for each. Swallowing it carries real risks, so read the Safety tab first.
Benefits, one by one
Each card is a research question, not a promise. Tap a goal to filter. Open a card to see the studies, doses and limits.
Sports performance (repeated sprints and short hard efforts)
Mixed findingsAthletes swallow sodium bicarbonate hoping to buffer the acid that builds up in hard exercise. Trials show small gains in some repeated-sprint tests, little or none in continuous running, and many people get stomach upset.
5 studiesSports studies use measured amounts by body weight, sometimes in caps…
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
Meta-analyses of placebo-controlled trials, mostly small crossover studies in young men.
Results
Continuous running: negligible effect overall (SMD 0.18, 95% CI -0.01 to 0.36), small in male-only studies (SMD 0.40). Repeated Wingate cycling sprints: small effects in some sprints (SMD 0.09 to 0.62), none in a single sprint. One 10-person trial in heat found higher sprint power with no extra kidney or gut injury markers versus placebo. Digestive symptoms were far more common with bicarbonate (29.5% versus 2.6%).
Effect sizes as reported
SMD 0.18 (continuous running, mixed sexes); SMD 0.40 (men only); GI symptoms OR 5.9
Why this rating
Small effects in some short efforts, negligible in continuous running, and common side effects. Trials are small and mostly male.
Form and dose studied
Sports studies use measured amounts by body weight, sometimes in capsules. We give no amounts. This is not advice to take it.
Who was studied
Healthy young adults in controlled studies. Not tested in children, pregnancy or people with heart or kidney disease.
Limits
Short tests, placebo effects are hard to rule out, and many trials do not report side effects well.
Why researchers looked
Sodium bicarbonate raises blood bicarbonate, which may help the body cope with acid produced in intense exercise.
Traditional use
No traditional use. This is a modern sports-science use.
Proposed mechanism Human physiology (proposed)
Extra bicarbonate in the blood may buffer hydrogen ions made in intense exercise (proposed; the reviews read here describe it as an acid buffer).
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Swallowing baking soda can cause serious harm, including a sodium overload, metabolic alkalosis and, in large amounts, stomach rupture. See the Safety tab. Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using it for any health purpose. Sports reviews report digestive symptoms from mild to severe.
Heartburn and acid indigestion (as an antacid)
Not enough evidenceSodium bicarbonate is a recognised antacid medicine. But poison centres and doctors warn against kitchen baking soda as a home heartburn remedy, because of gas, a sodium load and rare stomach rupture.
6 studiesNot applicable. We give no amounts. A pharmacist can suggest an antac…
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
No randomised trial of baking soda for heartburn was read for this page. The evidence we read is agency pages and case reports.
Results
MedlinePlus lists it as an antacid not to be used longer than 2 weeks unless a doctor says so. NHS says antacids help in the short term, do not cure the problem and are not for long regular use. Poison Control advises against baking soda as a homemade antacid and calls calcium carbonate antacids much safer. Case reports document severe harm from swallowing it for indigestion.
Effect sizes as reported
No numbers from a trial
Why this rating
No trial was read; sources describe it as short-term symptom relief at best, with documented harms from misuse.
Who was studied
Anyone with frequent heartburn should see a doctor. Heartburn most days or with food sticking, vomiting or weight loss needs a GP (NHS).
Limits
Medicine pages describe the medicine product, not household baking soda.
Why researchers looked
It neutralises stomach acid quickly, which is why it appears on medicine pages as an antacid.
Traditional use
A 1999 case report says it has been used for decades as a home remedy for acid indigestion.
Proposed mechanism Agency statement
It reacts with stomach acid and makes carbon dioxide gas (Poison Control).
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Swallowing baking soda can cause serious harm, including a sodium overload, metabolic alkalosis and, in large amounts, stomach rupture. See the Safety tab. Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using it for any health purpose.
Acid build-up (metabolic acidosis) in chronic kidney disease, under medical care
Mixed findingsIn kidney disease the body can hold too much acid. Doctors sometimes prescribe sodium bicarbonate. It raises blood bicarbonate, but trials have not clearly shown better kidney function, and one large trial in older people found no benefit and more side effects.
4 studiesPrescribed and monitored by a kidney doctor. Not something to start a…
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
A 2025 meta-analysis of 22 trials (20 randomised, 2 non-randomised; 2,932 patients) and the BiCARB trial of 300 older UK adults.
Results
Meta-analysis: blood bicarbonate rose (mean difference 2.59, 95% CI 0.95 to 4.22), eGFR change not significant (0.93, 95% CI -1.88 to 3.75), no significant difference in death or hospital stay, digestive problems or worsening swelling. BiCARB: no benefit on physical function (-0.4 points, 95% CI -0.9 to 0.1) or kidney filtration, more adverse events (457 versus 400), lower quality of life and higher cost. A 2026 appraisal says the question of when to treat is still debated.
Effect sizes as reported
Blood bicarbonate +2.59; eGFR +0.93 (not significant)
Why this rating
It reliably raises blood bicarbonate, but kidney-function and quality-of-life benefits were not shown, and the trials differ a lot from each other.
Form and dose studied
Prescribed and monitored by a kidney doctor. Not something to start at home.
Who was studied
People with CKD and low blood bicarbonate, under a specialist.
Limits
Very large differences between trials (I2 93 to 95%). Hospital and clinic settings only.
Why researchers looked
Failing kidneys remove less acid, so blood bicarbonate falls.
Traditional use
Not a traditional use. A modern medical treatment.
Proposed mechanism Clinical rationale
Supplies bicarbonate to offset the acid load (proposed in the sources).
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Swallowing baking soda can cause serious harm, including a sodium overload, metabolic alkalosis and, in large amounts, stomach rupture. See the Safety tab. Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using it for any health purpose. In kidney disease the sodium load matters and a dialysis patient had life-threatening alkalosis from eating baking soda.
Baking soda toothpaste (plaque and gum bleeding)
Low certaintyBrushing with toothpaste that contains baking soda lowers plaque a little in single-brushing studies. This was only partly confirmed over longer follow-up. Baking soda is a mild, low-abrasion ingredient.
2 studiesThis is about commercial toothpaste, not brushing with plain powder. …
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
Systematic review of 21 randomised trials (43 comparisons) in healthy adults.
Results
Single-use brushing: lower plaque scores (difference -0.20, 95% CI -0.27 to -0.12). With follow-up versus a negative control: -0.19 (95% CI -0.34 to -0.04). Small gum bleeding reduction; gingival index scores did not differ significantly. A review of abrasivity says baking soda is softer than enamel and dentin and formulas are within safety limits.
Effect sizes as reported
Plaque score difference about -0.2
Why this rating
Promising but only partly confirmed over time, with moderate risk of bias and mixed results. The authors disclose ties to toothpaste makers.
Form and dose studied
This is about commercial toothpaste, not brushing with plain powder. We give no method.
Who was studied
Healthy adults.
Limits
Different toothpaste formulas and short follow-ups.
Why researchers looked
Baking soda is a gentle abrasive used in toothpaste.
Traditional use
No tradition of use was checked in the sources read.
Proposed mechanism Laboratory and clinical
Mild abrasion and cleaning of plaque (proposed); low abrasivity compared with enamel.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Toothpaste is spat out, not swallowed. Do not swallow large amounts of baking soda.
Gargling or rinsing with a baking soda solution
Very low certaintyOne small hospital trial in people with heart failure found a baking soda gargle improved a tongue-coating score and oral hygiene scores over a week. It has not been tested in healthy people.
1 studiesWe give no recipe. A rinse is spat out, not swallowed.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
One randomised single-blind trial of 108 hospital patients with heart failure.
Results
Tongue coating score was lower in the gargle groups from day 4. By day 7 there were differences in oral bacteria counts, plaque index and oral health score. The authors report good tolerability.
Effect sizes as reported
No effect sizes given in the abstract
Why this rating
A single small, short, single-blind trial that was registered after it ended, in a special group of hospital patients.
Form and dose studied
We give no recipe. A rinse is spat out, not swallowed.
Who was studied
Hospital patients with heart failure in one trial.
Limits
No trial in healthy people was read.
Why researchers looked
Alkaline solutions are used as a mouth rinse in hospital care.
Traditional use
No source read describes a tradition of use.
Proposed mechanism None found
Not established.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
A rinse should be spat out. Swallowing is where the risks lie.
Alkalizing the body, or preventing or treating cancer
Not enough evidenceSome online posts claim baking soda "alkalizes" the body and prevents or treats cancer. A systematic review found no trial evidence for alkaline diets or water for cancer, and a 2026 report says such unproven health claims drive harmful misuse.
2 studiesNot a treatment. We give no amounts.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
A systematic review found one cohort study and no randomised trials.
Results
No evidence of benefit. The review concluded that promoting alkaline diet or water for cancer prevention or treatment is not justified. Baking soda by mouth was not tested.
Why this rating
There is almost no research either way, and the case literature documents harm from misuse.
Form and dose studied
Not a treatment. We give no amounts.
Limits
The review covers alkaline diets and water, not baking soda directly.
Why researchers looked
Claim spread through social media and sellers.
Traditional use
Not a traditional use.
Proposed mechanism None found
The claim that the body can be made more alkaline by food or drink is not supported by the sources read.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Swallowing baking soda can cause serious harm, including a sodium overload, metabolic alkalosis and, in large amounts, stomach rupture. See the Safety tab. Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using it for any health purpose.
Connections to the rest of health
How Baking Soda connects to the rest of our health knowledge graph. Every link says what kind of connection it is. A safety link (for example to the liver) is a warning, not a benefit. A study that merely mentions a topic never creates a benefit link.
Explore every connection: goals, body systems, organs, symptoms, genes
A. Wellness goals
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Athletic Performance | Mixed findings | Sports performance (repeated sprints and short hard efforts): Athletes swallow sodium bicarbonate hoping to buffer the acid that builds up in hard exercise. Trials show small gains in some repeated-sprint tests, little or none in continuous running, and many people get stomach upset. | 13 9 19 22 4 | |
| Digestive Comfort | Not enough evidence | Heartburn and acid indigestion (as an antacid): Sodium bicarbonate is a recognised antacid medicine. But poison centres and doctors warn against kitchen baking soda as a home heartburn remedy, because of gas, a sodium load and rare stomach rupture. | 3 14 15 20 8 1 | |
| Kidney Health | Mixed findings | Acid build-up (metabolic acidosis) in chronic kidney disease, under medical care: In kidney disease the body can hold too much acid. Doctors sometimes prescribe sodium bicarbonate. It raises blood bicarbonate, but trials have not clearly shown better kidney function, and one large trial in older people found no benefit and more side effects. | 18 6 5 17 | |
| Oral Health | Low certainty | Baking soda toothpaste (plaque and gum bleeding): Brushing with toothpaste that contains baking soda lowers plaque a little in single-brushing studies. This was only partly confirmed over longer follow-up. Baking soda is a mild, low-abrasion ingredient. Gargling or rinsing with a baking soda solution: One small hospital trial in people with heart failure found a baking soda gargle improved a tongue-coating score and oral hygiene scores over a week. It has not been tested in healthy people. | 21 10 12 | |
| Cancer Support | Not enough evidence | Alkalizing the body, or preventing or treating cancer: Some online posts claim baking soda "alkalizes" the body and prevents or treats cancer. A systematic review found no trial evidence for alkaline diets or water for cancer, and a 2026 report says such unproven health claims drive harmful misuse. | 7 11 |
B. Body systems
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Digestive system | Adverse effect or risk | High certainty | Gas, cramps, vomiting, diarrhoea and, after large amounts, stomach rupture. Preparation or compound: Baking soda, swallowed |
15 11 22 |
| Kidneys and fluid balance | Adverse effect or risk | Moderate certainty | Sodium load and fluid overload in kidney failure; more adverse events in a trial of older adults with CKD. Preparation or compound: Baking soda, swallowed |
17 6 |
| Nervous system | Adverse effect or risk | Moderate certainty | Seizures and confusion in severe overdose. Preparation or compound: Baking soda, swallowed |
8 15 |
| Musculoskeletal System | Biological association | Mixed findings | Studied for: Sports performance (repeated sprints and short hard efforts) | 13 9 19 22 4 |
| Digestive System | Biological association | Not enough evidence | Studied for: Heartburn and acid indigestion (as an antacid) Studied for: Baking soda toothpaste (plaque and gum bleeding) | 3 14 15 20 8 1 21 10 12 |
| Urinary System | Biological association | Mixed findings | Studied for: Acid build-up (metabolic acidosis) in chronic kidney disease, under medical care | 18 6 5 17 |
| Immune System | Biological association | Not enough evidence | Studied for: Alkalizing the body, or preventing or treating cancer | 7 11 |
I. Biomarkers
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blood bicarbonate (serum bicarbonate) | Biological association | Moderate certainty | Measured in trials: increased. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 18 |
| Kidney filtration (eGFR) | Biological association | Moderate certainty | Measured in trials: unchanged. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 18 6 |
| Power in repeated sprints | Biological association | Low certainty | Measured in trials: increased. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 9 19 |
| Dental plaque score | Biological association | Low certainty | Measured in trials: decreased. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 21 12 |
| Tongue coating index (Winkel) | Biological association | Very low certainty | Measured in trials: decreased. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 12 |
K. Biological pathways
L. Active compounds
Each connection is stored with the ingredient, the connected record, the kind of connection, the evidence status, the supporting studies, the preparation or compound involved, and a review date (last reviewed October 30, 2026).
Evidence at a glance: what the research found for 6 outcomes
Each outcome below is one thing researchers measured. Certainty is how far the evidence can be trusted, not how well it works. The full studies are on the next tab.
The evidence
The research centre for Baking Soda. Every record here was checked against PubMed or the publisher's page; we never list a study we have not verified.
Evidence by outcome
Bars show how many studies we found for each outcome, not how well it works. People are added up across trials only (reviews are not added, to avoid double counting).
How we rate evidence
High certainty
Several well-run trials or reviews agree; further research is unlikely to change the picture much.
Moderate certainty
Good trials point the same way, but some doubt remains.
Low certainty
Small, short or inconsistent trials. The finding could change with better research.
Very low certainty
Very little or very weak human data. Treat as a possibility only.
Mixed findings
Trials or reviews disagree with each other.
Not enough evidence
Not enough human research to say either way.
Evidence against
Good research found no benefit, or found harm.
We take the reviewers' own risk-of-bias and GRADE statements where they exist, and otherwise judge from study size, design, consistency, directness and whether a product matches what is sold. Many publications do not make evidence high. Method note: We read the abstracts of 19 PubMed papers and the MedlinePlus, NHS and Poison Control pages, and checked the formula in PubChem. The KDIGO document, LiverTox, LactMed and FDA pages were not read. Certainty ratings are the compiler's own reading. One sports review lists an author employed by a sports-nutrition company, and the toothpaste review authors disclose past funding from toothpaste makers; both are flagged.
Study library: every study we checked 22
| Study | Design | People | Product, dose, length | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ajbani 2011 Homespun remedy, homespun toxicity: baking soda ingestion for dyspepsia. J Emerg Med · PMID 18164162 · DOI |
Case report |
1 A 68-year-old man with lung disease who swallowed large amounts of baking soda for indigestion |
Baking soda, swallowed swallowed for indigestion Not given as advice here |
He developed severe metabolic alkalosis with low blood sodium, chloride and potassium, worsening confusion and breathing failure needing a breathing tube. He recovered after stopping the baking soda and receiving fluids and electrolyte correction in hospital. Serious harm in one patient Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Acid-base and electrolyte tests Limitations: One case, in a person with lung disease. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Al-Abri 2014 Baking soda misuse as a home remedy: case experience of the California Poison Control System. J Clin Pharm Ther · PMID 24313600 · DOI |
Retrospective poison centre case review |
192 192 symptomatic baking-soda misuse cases reported to the California Poison Control System, 2000 to 2012 |
Baking soda powder, swallowed swallowed as a home remedy Not given as advice here |
Of 192 cases, the most common reasons were as an antacid (60.4%), to beat a urine drug test (11.5%) and to treat a urinary tract infection (4.7%). Ages ranged from 2 months to 79 years. Most cases (55.2%) had significant symptoms needing medical evaluation, and 12 patients were admitted with electrolyte imbalance, metabolic alkalosis or respiratory depression. The authors say those at highest risk may include people who use it as a regular antacid, people trying to beat drug tests, pregnant women and young children, and that home use may delay medical care. Serious harm in a large minority of reported misuse cases Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Reasons for use, symptoms, hospital admission Limitations: Only symptomatic cases reported to one poison system are counted, so it cannot show how common harm is among all users. Pregnancy and children are named as possible higher-risk groups by the authors, not measured here. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (via MedlinePlus) 2017 MedlinePlus Drug Information: Sodium Bicarbonate n/a · Source |
Health agency page n/a |
n/a | Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) |
Lists "baking soda" as another name. Describes it as an antacid for heartburn and acid indigestion, also prescribed to make blood or urine less acidic. Says not to use longer than 2 weeks unless a doctor says so, not to give to children under 12 unless a doctor says so, to take it at least 2 hours apart from other medicines, that it increases sodium in the body (check with a doctor if on a sodium-restricted diet), and to tell the doctor if pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding. Side effects to report include increased thirst, cramps, gas; stop and call a doctor for severe headache, vomit like coffee grounds, weakness, slow breathing, swelling of feet or lower legs. Poison helpline 1-800-222-1222; call 911 if collapsed, seizure, trouble breathing or cannot be awakened. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Lists "baking soda" as another name. Describes it as an antacid for heartburn and acid indigestion, also prescribed to make blood or urine less acidic. Says not to use longer than 2 weeks unless a doctor says so, not to give to children under 12 unless a doctor says so, to take it at least 2 hours apart from other medicines, that it increases sodium in the body (check with a doctor if on a sodium-restricted diet), and to tell the doctor if pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding. Side effects to report include increased thirst, cramps, gas; stop and call a doctor for severe headache, vomit like coffee grounds, weakness, slow breathing, swelling of feet or lower legs. Poison helpline 1-800-222-1222; call 911 if collapsed, seizure, trouble breathing or cannot be awakened. Limitations: Page last revised 2017-04-15. Medicine page; it describes the medicine, not kitchen baking soda use. Read: full-text |
| Antonio 2026 Common questions and misconceptions of sodium bicarbonate as an ergogenic aid: what does the science really show? J Int Soc Sports Nutr · PMID 42696273 · DOI |
Expert narrative review |
Sports-science literature on sodium bicarbonate as a performance aid | Sodium bicarbonate as an exercise buffer swallowed in sport research Not given as advice here |
An expert review that answers questions on sodium bicarbonate in sport, including how it may work as an acid buffer, whether it causes digestive symptoms and why, and which sports may benefit. The abstract says digestive symptoms are a recognised concern and that new formulas meant to reduce them have increased its use by athletes. The abstract does not state a verdict on performance. Context for the sports uses Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Mechanisms, side effects, which sports Limitations: Only the abstract was read; its detailed answers were not. Funding and conflicts: Several authors listed; one author is employed by a sports-nutrition company (Maurten AB). Conflicts declared by others: none. Read: abstract |
| Beynon-Cobb 2026 Metabolic Acidosis and Progression of CKD: Current Guidelines and Considerations. Am J Kidney Dis · PMID 42349771 · DOI |
Expert critical appraisal |
Guideline and trial evidence on metabolic acidosis in CKD | Alkali treatment in CKD clinical guideline discussion Not given as advice here |
The authors say observational evidence suggests metabolic acidosis may drive CKD progression but that the amount and quality of trial evidence for treatment is debated. They describe KDIGO guidance as practice points, not recommendations, suggesting treatment be considered to prevent acidosis with a proposed blood bicarbonate cutoff below 18 mmol/L, and argue the cited evidence could be read differently. Treatment of acidosis in CKD is an unsettled question Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Guidance on treating metabolic acidosis in CKD Limitations: Opinion and appraisal, not a trial. The KDIGO document itself was not read. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| BiCARB study group 2020 Clinical and cost-effectiveness of oral sodium bicarbonate therapy for older patients with chronic kidney disease and low-grade acidosis (BiCARB): a pragmatic randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. BMC Med · PMID 32268897 · DOI |
Randomised double blind placebo controlled trial |
300 Adults aged 60 or older with advanced CKD (eGFR under 30) and blood bicarbonate under 22 mmol/L, UK |
Oral sodium bicarbonate versus placebo prescribed in a trial, up to 2 years Not given as advice here |
No significant effect on the physical performance score (adjusted difference -0.4, 95% CI -0.9 to 0.1, p=0.15) or on kidney filtration (0.6 mL/min/1.73 m2, 95% CI -0.8 to 2.0, p=0.39). Bicarbonate cost more and quality of life measured by EQ-5D-3L was lower over one year. Adverse events were more frequent with bicarbonate (457 versus 400). The authors conclude it did not improve physical or kidney function and increased adverse events. No benefit on function or kidney filtration; more adverse events Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Short Physical Performance Battery at 12 months; kidney function; quality of life; adverse events Limitations: Only 187 of 300 had primary outcome data. Older people with advanced disease only. Funding and conflicts: Funded by the NIHR HTA programme; two authors report grants or employment unrelated to the product. Registration: ISRCTN09486651; EudraCT 2011-005271-16 Read: abstract |
| Fenton 2016 Systematic review of the association between dietary acid load, alkaline water and cancer. BMJ Open · PMID 27297008 · DOI |
Systematic review |
8,278 citations screened; 1 cohort study met the criteria | Dietary acid load and alkaline water diet and drinking water Not given as advice here |
Only one study qualified, a cohort study on bladder cancer that found no association with dietary acid load. No randomised trials were found, and no studies of alkaline diet or alkaline water for cancer treatment. The authors conclude promoting alkaline diet or water for cancer prevention or treatment is not justified. No evidence for cancer prevention or treatment Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Cancer incidence and treatment outcomes Limitations: About diet and alkaline water, not baking soda by mouth directly. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Fitzgibbons 1999 Severe metabolic alkalosis due to baking soda ingestion: case reports of two patients with unsuspected antacid overdose. J Emerg Med · PMID 9950389 · DOI |
Case reports with review |
2 Two patients with severe metabolic alkalosis from baking soda used as an antacid |
Baking soda, swallowed swallowed as antacid Not given as advice here |
The authors say too much bicarbonate puts people at risk of metabolic alkalosis, low potassium, high blood sodium and even low oxygen. The picture varies and can include seizures, abnormal heart rhythms and cardiac arrest. Serious harm described in two patients Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Acid-base disturbance Limitations: Two cases only. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Grgic 2022 Effects of Sodium Bicarbonate Ingestion on Measures of Wingate Test Performance: A Meta-Analysis. J Am Nutr Assoc · PMID 33314967 · DOI |
Meta-analysis |
10 studies using single or repeated Wingate cycling tests | Sodium bicarbonate versus placebo swallowed in sport research Not given as advice here |
No significant difference for mean power in a single Wingate test (SMD 0.02; 95% CI -0.07 to 0.11). Small significant effects were found on mean power in the 2nd and 4th tests of repeated Wingate tests (SMD 0.09 and 0.62) and with short rest intervals in the 3rd test (SMD 0.40). Effects on peak power were mostly null. No benefit in a single sprint; small effects in repeated sprints Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Mean and peak power in repeated Wingate tests Limitations: Ten small studies; findings conflicting. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Hara 2017 Baking soda as an abrasive in toothpastes: Mechanism of action and safety and effectiveness considerations. J Am Dent Assoc · PMID 29056187 · DOI |
Narrative review |
Laboratory and clinical data on toothpaste abrasivity | Toothpaste containing baking soda brushing (not swallowed) Not given as advice here |
The authors say baking soda is intrinsically low-abrasive because it is softer than enamel and dentin. Some baking soda toothpastes contain other ingredients that raise stain removal and abrasivity, but the formulas reviewed were within regulators' safety limits. Low abrasivity as a toothpaste ingredient Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Abrasivity and tooth wear Limitations: Review from a supplement of a journal issue about baking soda toothpastes; funding not stated in the abstract. Not about brushing with plain powder. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract; the paper is from a special journal issue on baking soda dentifrices. Read: abstract |
| Inokuchi 2026 Severe metabolic alkalosis and hypernatremia induced by excessive sodium bicarbonate intake: A case report and literature review. Am J Emerg Med · PMID 41650758 · DOI |
Case report and systematic review of cases |
78 One man in his 30s plus 78 published cases of sodium bicarbonate toxicity |
Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), swallowed swallowed as self-medication Not given as advice here |
A healthy man developed life-threatening metabolic alkalosis and high blood sodium after taking baking soda by mouth for weeks and then in a large amount; he recovered with hospital care. The review of 78 cases found the reasons for use had shifted from indigestion to pica, drug-test avoidance and natural remedies. Large single ingestions were often complicated by stomach rupture and linked to high death rates. Long-term ingestion mainly caused severe metabolic alkalosis and electrolyte problems. Serious harm after excess swallowing Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Acid-base and sodium blood tests, pattern of harm by ingestion type Limitations: Case reports are not a rate of harm. The abstract does not give how many of the 78 cases died. Funding and conflicts: No conflicts declared. Read: abstract |
| Li 2025 Effects of sodium bicarbonate solution on tongue coating and oral hygiene in patients with heart failure: a randomized controlled trial. BMC Oral Health · PMID 41063101 · DOI |
Randomised controlled trial, single blind |
108 108 hospital patients with heart failure |
Gargling with a sodium bicarbonate solution plus standard oral care versus standard oral care alone gargle (rinse) Not given as advice here |
From day 4, the tongue coating index was lower with bicarbonate gargling than with standard care alone. By day 7 there were differences in bacterial counts, plaque index and oral health score between the three groups. The authors report good tolerability. Better tongue coating and oral hygiene scores over a week Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Tongue coating index, oral bacteria counts, plaque index, oral health score over 7 days Limitations: Small, single-blind, in hospital patients with heart failure, and registered after the study ended (retrospective registration). Short follow-up. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Registration: ChiCTR2400094457 (registered retrospectively) Read: abstract |
| Miller 2025 Negligible benefit of oral single-dose sodium bicarbonate on continuous running performance: systematic review with meta-analysis of randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials. J Int Soc Sports Nutr · PMID 41416636 · DOI |
Systematic review and meta analysis |
126 11 crossover trials, 126 participants (84% male), continuous running tests of 1 to 30 minutes |
Single dose of sodium bicarbonate versus placebo swallowed in sport research Not given as advice here |
After adjusting for withdrawals and publication bias, the benefit was negligible and not significant (SMD 0.18; 95% CI -0.01 to 0.36; moderate certainty). In the 8 male-only studies it was small and significant (SMD 0.40; 95% CI 0.18 to 0.63). Digestive symptoms were far more common with bicarbonate than placebo (29.5% versus 2.6%; odds ratio 5.9; low certainty), and symptom-related withdrawal was higher (8.7% versus 1.6%; moderate certainty). Negligible effect overall; digestive symptoms common Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Running performance; gastrointestinal symptoms; study withdrawals Limitations: Mostly male, mostly short tests, crossover trials. Funding and conflicts: No conflict reported by authors. Read: abstract |
| NHS (UK) 2023 NHS: Heartburn and acid reflux n/a · Source |
Health agency page n/a |
n/a | Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) |
Advises speaking to a pharmacist about antacids or alginates for ongoing heartburn; says they help symptoms in the short term, will not cure the problem and should not be taken regularly for long periods. Advises seeing a GP if lifestyle changes and pharmacy medicines are not helping, heartburn happens most days, or it comes with food sticking in the throat, frequent vomiting or weight loss for no reason. If pregnant, a pharmacist can advise on medicines. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Advises speaking to a pharmacist about antacids or alginates for ongoing heartburn; says they help symptoms in the short term, will not cure the problem and should not be taken regularly for long periods. Advises seeing a GP if lifestyle changes and pharmacy medicines are not helping, heartburn happens most days, or it comes with food sticking in the throat, frequent vomiting or weight loss for no reason. If pregnant, a pharmacist can advise on medicines. Limitations: Page last reviewed 20 November 2023; next review due 20 November 2026. Does not mention baking soda by name. Read: full-text |
| Poison Control (US national poison centre network); reviewed by clinical toxicologists 2024 My child got into the baking soda: Risks and treatment n/a · Source |
Poison centre information page n/a |
n/a | Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) |
Says baking soda is sodium bicarbonate, and that sodium and bicarbonate can both cause serious toxicity if too much is taken. Swallowed, it rapidly makes a large volume of carbon dioxide, which can cause dangerous pressure in the stomach. Stomach ruptures can follow use after alcohol binging or a large meal. Early signs of too much are vomiting and diarrhoea; after absorption high sodium can cause seizures, dehydration and kidney failure, and a very alkaline body chemistry slows breathing. It says not to use baking soda as a homemade antacid, to keep it out of reach of children, and to call 1-800-222-1222 or use the online tool. Calcium carbonate antacids are described as similar but much safer. Baking powder is baking soda plus a dry acid. The page cites a case of a 54-year-old woman who had a 5 cm stomach tear after drinking baking soda for indigestion (taken from a 2017 case report; the report itself was not read). Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Says baking soda is sodium bicarbonate, and that sodium and bicarbonate can both cause serious toxicity if too much is taken. Swallowed, it rapidly makes a large volume of carbon dioxide, which can cause dangerous pressure in the stomach. Stomach ruptures can follow use after alcohol binging or a large meal. Early signs of too much are vomiting and diarrhoea; after absorption high sodium can cause seizures, dehydration and kidney failure, and a very alkaline body chemistry slows breathing. It says not to use baking soda as a homemade antacid, to keep it out of reach of children, and to call 1-800-222-1222 or use the online tool. Calcium carbonate antacids are described as similar but much safer. Baking powder is baking soda plus a dry acid. The page cites a case of a 54-year-old woman who had a 5 cm stomach tear after drinking baking soda for indigestion (taken from a 2017 case report; the report itself was not read). Limitations: Undated page (references accessed in 2024); read 2026-10-30. A general-public page from a poison-centre network, not a trial. Read: full-text |
| PubChem 2026 PubChem: Sodium Bicarbonate (CID 516892) n/a · Source |
Database record n/a |
n/a | Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) |
Formula CHNaO3 (NaHCO3), molecular weight 84.007, IUPAC name sodium hydrogen carbonate. Returned by the PubChem API on 2026-10-30. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Formula CHNaO3 (NaHCO3), molecular weight 84.007, IUPAC name sodium hydrogen carbonate. Returned by the PubChem API on 2026-10-30. Limitations: Identity only. Read: full-text |
| Sarwal 2022 Life-threatening alkalosis from baking soda pica in an end stage renal disease hemodialysis patient. Hemodial Int · PMID 34907640 · DOI |
Case report |
1 One person on long-term haemodialysis |
Baking soda, eaten as pica eaten (pica behaviour) Not given as advice here |
A dialysis patient had severe alkalosis, high blood sodium and large weight gains between dialysis sessions, leading to repeated hospital stays for fluid overload, all traced to baking soda pica. The authors say the behaviour is easy to miss because patients rarely mention it. Serious harm in one patient with kidney failure Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Acid-base and fluid status Limitations: One case. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Siddiqui 2025 Safety and efficacy of sodium bicarbonate for treating metabolic acidosis in chronic kidney disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis. World J Nephrol · PMID 40134641 · DOI |
Systematic review and meta analysis |
2932 People with chronic kidney disease and metabolic acidosis; 20 randomised trials and 2 non-randomised trials |
Prescribed oral sodium bicarbonate versus control clinical treatment under medical care Not given as advice here |
Sodium bicarbonate raised blood bicarbonate (mean difference 2.59, 95% CI 0.95 to 4.22; I2 95%). The change in eGFR was not significant (0.93, 95% CI -1.88 to 3.75). No significant difference was found in death or longer hospital stay, digestive problems or worsening swelling versus control. The authors suggest it may help prevent CKD from worsening, but their own eGFR result did not show a significant gain. Raises blood bicarbonate; no significant eGFR change Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Blood bicarbonate, eGFR, death or longer hospital stay, digestive problems, worsening swelling Limitations: Very high inconsistency between trials (I2 93 to 95%). Clinic-supervised treatment, not home use. The authors state no conflicts. Funding and conflicts: No relevant conflicts reported. Read: abstract |
| Specht 2026 Effect of sodium bicarbonate on performance and markers of kidney and gastrointestinal injury during repeated sprints in the heat. Eur J Appl Physiol · PMID 42133056 · DOI |
Double blind crossover trial |
10 10 recreationally endurance-trained adults, repeated cycling sprints at 40 C |
Sodium bicarbonate versus placebo swallowed in sport research Not given as advice here |
Peak and average sprint power were higher with bicarbonate (about 21 W higher peak power, p=0.02). Exercise raised a kidney-injury marker (urinary IGFBP7 x TIMP-2) and a gut-injury marker, but there were no differences between bicarbonate and placebo. Higher sprint power; no extra injury markers in this small trial Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Sprint power; kidney-injury and gut-injury markers; core temperature Limitations: Only 10 people, one session, healthy trained adults. Funding and conflicts: No conflicts declared. Read: abstract |
| Thomas 1994 Acute toxicity from baking soda ingestion. Am J Emerg Med · PMID 8285975 · DOI |
Case report with review |
1 One patient with three hospital admissions in 4 months from swallowing bicarbonate for dyspepsia |
Baking soda, swallowed swallowed for indigestion Not given as advice here |
The authors list the risks of acute and chronic oral bicarbonate as metabolic alkalosis, high blood sodium, high blood pressure, stomach rupture, low potassium, low chloride, loss of body fluid and alkaline urine. Stopping long-term heavy use abruptly can also upset potassium, hormones and calcium and phosphorus balance. Risk list drawn from one case and the literature Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Risks of oral bicarbonate Limitations: Old, single case report. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Valkenburg 2019 The efficacy of baking soda dentifrice in controlling plaque and gingivitis: A systematic review. Int J Dent Hyg · PMID 30734996 · DOI |
Systematic review and meta analysis |
Healthy adults in 21 randomised trials, 43 comparisons (23 single-use, 20 with follow-up) | Toothpaste with baking soda versus toothpaste without brushing (not swallowed) Not given as advice here |
In single-brushing studies, baking soda toothpaste gave lower plaque scores than negative control toothpaste (difference -0.20; 95% CI -0.27 to -0.12). This was only partly confirmed in studies with follow-up (-0.19; 95% CI -0.34 to -0.04, versus a negative control). Gum bleeding scores improved slightly, but gingival index scores did not differ significantly. Promising for plaque; partly confirmed over time Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Plaque and gum bleeding and inflammation scores Limitations: Moderate risk of bias and considerable differences between studies. Authors disclose past fees or grants from toothpaste makers. Funding and conflicts: Authors disclose past advisor or research funding from toothpaste manufacturers; none specific to this review stated. Read: abstract |
| Winter 2026 Gastrointestinal Symptoms Associated With Sodium Bicarbonate Supplementation Protocols: A Systematic Review. Eur J Sport Sci · PMID 42499192 · DOI |
Systematic review |
101 101 investigations of sodium bicarbonate with a placebo or comparison condition |
Sodium bicarbonate in different forms and schedules swallowed in sport research Not given as advice here |
The review says common acute doses produce mild-to-severe digestive symptoms that likely rise with the size of a single dose. Ways to reduce symptoms are being tested, but no direct comparison ranks them, and 26 of 101 studies did not test symptom differences statistically. The authors say firm recommendations to minimise symptoms remain difficult. Digestive symptoms are common Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Gastrointestinal symptoms Limitations: Symptom reporting in the trials is poor. Funding and conflicts: No conflicts declared. Read: abstract |
What we do not know yet
- No randomised trial of kitchen baking soda for heartburn was read.
- No study of safety in pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- The rate of harm among all home users is not known.
- Sports trials are small and mostly in young men.
How new research is added
New studies are found by a saved PubMed search and are placed in a review queue. A person reads each one before it changes any evidence rating or safety wording.
Lab markers
What changed in blood or saliva tests during trials. A changed number is not the same as feeling or being healthier, and we give no "normal ranges".
Other 5
Blood bicarbonate (serum bicarbonate)
Increased in trials
The amount of bicarbonate in the blood, a marker of acid-base balance.
Moderate certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
Low in kidney disease with metabolic acidosis.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
Shows the treatment does what it is meant to do in the blood. It does not by itself show a health benefit.
Safety implication
Too much bicarbonate causes metabolic alkalosis (see Safety).
| Study | Result | People | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18 | Raised by sodium bicarbonate in CKD (mean difference 2.59, 95% CI 0.95 to 4.22); results differed a lot between trials (I2 95%). | People with CKD and metabolic acidosis, 22 trials | Prescribed oral sodium bicarbonate versus control |
Kidney filtration (eGFR)
Unchanged in trials
A blood-test estimate of how well the kidneys filter.
Moderate certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
Used to track kidney disease.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
Both sources found no clear gain in kidney filtration.
Safety implication
None specific.
| Study | Result | People | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18 | No significant change versus control (0.93, 95% CI -1.88 to 3.75). | People with CKD | Prescribed oral sodium bicarbonate |
| 6 | No significant treatment effect in BiCARB (0.6 mL/min/1.73 m2, 95% CI -0.8 to 2.0). | 300 adults 60 and over with advanced CKD | Oral sodium bicarbonate versus placebo up to 2 years |
Power in repeated sprints
Increased in trials
Average or peak power across repeated short hard efforts.
Low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
Used to test sports performance.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
A small possible gain in a sports test. Not a health benefit.
Safety implication
Stomach upset is common.
| Study | Result | People | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | Small effects on mean power in some of the repeated Wingate tests; none in a single test. | 10 studies | Sodium bicarbonate versus placebo |
| 19 | Higher peak and average power versus placebo in repeated cycling sprints in heat (about 21 W higher peak power). | 10 endurance-trained adults | Sodium bicarbonate versus placebo |
Dental plaque score
Decreased in trials
A clinic score of how much plaque covers the teeth.
Low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
Used to judge toothpaste and rinses.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
A small change in a dental marker.
Safety implication
None specific for brushing.
| Study | Result | People | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 21 | Lower with baking soda toothpaste than negative control toothpaste (difference -0.20; 95% CI -0.27 to -0.12) in single-use studies, partly confirmed with follow-up. | Healthy adults, 21 trials | Baking soda toothpaste versus toothpaste without |
| 12 | Plaque index differed between gargle and standard-care groups at day 7 in one small trial. | 108 patients with heart failure | Sodium bicarbonate gargle plus standard oral care |
Tongue coating index (Winkel)
Decreased in trials
A score of how much coating is on the tongue.
Very low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
Used to judge oral hygiene in hospital patients.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
One small single-blind trial.
Safety implication
None reported in the abstract.
| Study | Result | People | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 | Lower with bicarbonate gargling from day 4 compared with standard care. | 108 hospital patients with heart failure | Gargling for 7 days |
Safety
What studies and official sources say about side effects, medicines and who should check first. Each point shows what kind of evidence it comes from.
Main points to know 7
- Swallowing baking soda can cause serious harm. Case reports, a review of 78 cases and a poison-centre series describe dangerous changes in blood chemistry (metabolic alkalosis), high blood sodium, low potassium, seizures, abnormal heart rhythm, breathing problems and, after large amounts at once, rupture of the stomach. In the California Poison Control System series of 192 symptomatic cases, 55.2% had significant symptoms and 12 patients were admitted to hospital. This is why poison centres say not to use baking soda as a home antacid. Poison centre series, case reports, review 11 2 15 20 8
- Stomach rupture from gas. Poison Control explains that swallowed sodium bicarbonate rapidly makes a large volume of carbon dioxide gas, which can cause dangerous pressure in the stomach, and that ruptures can follow use after alcohol binging or a large meal. A 2026 review of 78 cases found acute large ingestion was often complicated by stomach rupture and linked to high mortality. Poison centre page and review 15 11
- Sodium load, high blood pressure and heart or kidney conditions. MedlinePlus says the medicine increases the sodium in the body and asks people on a sodium-restricted diet to check with a doctor first. The older review lists high blood sodium and high blood pressure among risks. In people on dialysis, one case of baking soda pica led to severe alkalosis, high sodium and fluid overload. In the BiCARB trial of older adults with advanced kidney disease, adverse events were more frequent with bicarbonate (457 versus 400). Agency page, review, case report, randomised trial 3 20 17 6
- Children. MedlinePlus says not to give sodium bicarbonate to children under 12 unless a doctor says so. Poison Control says to keep baking soda out of the reach of children and to supervise baking with children. The California series ranged from age 2 months to 79 years and the authors name young children as a possibly higher-risk group. Agency pages and case series 3 15 2
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding. MedlinePlus asks readers to tell their doctor if pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding. The California poison-centre authors name pregnant women as a possibly higher-risk group. NHS says a pharmacist can advise pregnant women on suitable heartburn medicines. We found no study of safety in pregnancy or breastfeeding. Agency pages and case series 3 14 2
- Sports use causes digestive symptoms. Sports trials report that digestive symptoms were much more frequent with bicarbonate than placebo (29.5% versus 2.6% in one meta-analysis) and that more people dropped out for stomach reasons. A 2026 review says symptoms range from mild to severe and rise with the size of a single dose. Meta analysis and systematic review 13 22
- Home use can hide a real problem. The poison-centre authors say home treatment with baking soda can mask or delay medical care. NHS says to see a GP if heartburn is most days or comes with food sticking in the throat, frequent vomiting or unexplained weight loss. Case series and agency page 2 14
Side effects 8
| Effect | How often | Severity and recovery | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Severe metabolic alkalosis and electrolyte disturbance (high sodium, low potassium, low chloride) Headache, weakness, confusion, slow breathing and abnormal heart rhythm can follow. | Not established | severe Usually reversed with hospital care in reported cases | Case reports and review 11 20 8 1 |
| Stomach rupture after a large single ingestion Poison Control describes a case of a 5 cm stomach tear that led to removal of the stomach. | Not established | life-threatening Needs emergency surgery | Review and poison centre page 11 15 |
| Vomiting and diarrhoea after too much Poison Control says the body pulls water into the gut to correct high sodium. | Not established | moderate to severe Settles in mild cases | Poison centre page 15 |
| Seizures, dehydration and kidney failure from high sodium Described as possible effects once the sodium is absorbed. | Not established | severe Needs hospital care | Poison centre page 15 |
| Breathing slowed by very alkaline body chemistry A man with lung disease needed a breathing tube. | Not established | severe Needs hospital care | Poison centre page and case report 15 1 |
| Increased thirst, stomach cramps and gas MedlinePlus says to tell a doctor if severe or persistent. | Not established | mild Usually settles | Agency page 3 |
| Digestive symptoms in athletes Reported in 29.5% on bicarbonate versus 2.6% on placebo in one meta-analysis. | 29.5% versus 2.6% (continuous-running trials) | mild to severe Usually settles | Meta-analysis 13 22 |
| Swelling of feet or lower legs, blood in urine, black or bloody stools Listed by MedlinePlus as reasons to stop and call a doctor. | Not established | severe (stop and call a doctor) Depends on cause | Agency page 3 |
Liver
No liver injury signal was found in the sources read. LiverTox was not read.
How often. No rate found.
This is a safety connection. It is not evidence that Baking Soda supports liver health.
Medicines and supplements 3
| With | Why it matters | Importance | Evidence | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Other medicines prescription | MedlinePlus says to take sodium bicarbonate at least 2 hours apart from other medicines (the page does not explain why). | Unknown from sources read | Agency page Low certainty 3 | Ask a pharmacist, especially if you take regular medicines. |
| Medicines for blood pressure, heart or kidney disease, and sodium-restricted diets prescription | Sodium bicarbonate adds sodium to the body (MedlinePlus). | Not quantified in sources read | Agency page Low certainty 3 | Tell your doctor before using it if you have high blood pressure, heart failure or kidney disease. |
| Specific named drugs, herbs or foods none-found | No named interaction study was read. | Unknown | None found Not enough evidence | Ask a pharmacist. |
Who should check first 7
| Situation | Advice | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Children, especially under 12 | MedlinePlus says not to give it to children under 12 unless a doctor says so. Keep baking soda out of reach. | Agency page 3 15 |
| Pregnant or breastfeeding | Tell your doctor. A pharmacist can advise on suitable heartburn medicines (NHS). | Agency pages 3 14 |
| High blood pressure, heart failure, kidney disease or a sodium-restricted diet | Tell your doctor before using. Baking soda adds sodium. | Agency page and case reports 3 17 |
| After a large meal or alcohol | Poison Control says stomach ruptures can follow baking soda use after alcohol binging or a large meal. | Poison centre page 15 |
| Heartburn that keeps coming back | Speak to a pharmacist or GP. Antacids should not be taken regularly for long periods (NHS). | Agency page 14 |
| Sports: people who get stomach upset easily | Reviews say symptoms are common and some people cannot tolerate it. | Meta-analysis 13 |
| Before surgery, allergies, older adults | Not described in the sources we read, so we make no claims. | None found |
Overdose, product quality and regulators
Summary. Baking soda is a food and household product, but swallowing too much is toxic. Sodium, bicarbonate and carbon dioxide gas each add a risk (Poison Control).
Animal. Not reviewed.
Human doses studied. Not given as advice here.
High dose or long term signals. Long-term ingestion mainly causes severe metabolic alkalosis and electrolyte problems; large single ingestions can rupture the stomach (2026 review of 78 cases).
Overdose response. Call your poison centre (US Poison Help 1-800-222-1222) or your local emergency number. Treatment is given by clinicians in hospital. Do not try to make someone vomit or treat it at home.
Genotoxicity. Not reviewed.
No contamination or quality data were found for household baking soda.
Baking soda versus baking powder. Poison Control says baking powder is baking soda plus a dry acid such as cream of tartar, so it is a different product. 15
| Body | Action | Date |
|---|---|---|
| MedlinePlus Drug Information (US National Library of Medicine, from ASHP) (United States) | Describes sodium bicarbonate as an antacid; not to use beyond 2 weeks unless told by a doctor; not for children under 12 unless told by a doctor; poison helpline and 911 guidance. source | 2017-04-15 |
| NHS (UK) (United Kingdom) | Pharmacist advice for heartburn; antacids give short-term relief and should not be taken regularly for long periods. source | 2023-11-20 |
| Poison Control (US) (United States) | Says not to use baking soda as a homemade antacid and to keep it out of reach of children. source | 2024 |
When to get medical help
- Someone has swallowed a lot of baking soda or sodium bicarbonate, or you are unsure how much: call your poison centre (US Poison Help 1-800-222-1222) or your local emergency number.
- Call 911 or your local emergency number if the person has collapsed, had a seizure, has trouble breathing or cannot be woken (MedlinePlus).
- Sudden severe belly pain after swallowing it, especially with vomiting.
- Severe headache, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, weakness, confusion, slow breathing.
- Swelling of the feet or lower legs, blood in the urine or black or bloody stools.
- Heartburn most days, food sticking in the throat, repeated vomiting or weight loss: see a doctor (NHS).
Stop using the product and contact a clinician or emergency service. In the US, Poison Control is 1-800-222-1222.
General information only, not medical advice. Ask a clinician or pharmacist before use, especially with medicines, in pregnancy or with a health condition. See the Natural Remedy Safety guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is baking soda the same as sodium bicarbonate?
Is it safe to swallow baking soda for heartburn?
What can happen if you swallow too much?
What should I do if someone swallowed too much?
Is baking soda safe for children?
Is it safe in pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Does baking soda improve sports performance?
Does baking soda protect the kidneys?
Does baking soda toothpaste work?
Does a baking soda mouth rinse help?
One small single-blind trial in 108 heart-failure patients in hospital found better tongue-coating and oral hygiene scores over a week. No trial in healthy people was read, so the evidence is very weak.
Can baking soda alkalize the body or treat cancer?
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Editorial transparency
- Written by
- AlternativeMed editorial team. Research compiled with AI assistance, then checked against PubMed records.
- Medical review
- None. This page has not been reviewed by a physician or pharmacist.
- First published
- 2026-10-30
- Last substantive update
- 2026-10-30
- How we research
- We read the abstracts of 19 PubMed papers and the MedlinePlus, NHS and Poison Control pages, and checked the formula in PubChem. The KDIGO document, LiverTox, LactMed and FDA pages were not read. Certainty ratings are the compiler's own reading. One sports review lists an author employed by a sports-nutrition company, and the toothpaste review authors disclose past funding from toothpaste makers; both are flagged.
- How we rate evidence
- See "How we rate evidence" in the Evidence tab.
- Independence
- No product is promoted on this page. No affiliate links are shown, and none will be added for baking soda. This page is information, not a recommendation to use it.
Sources 22
Each source was opened and checked. Where we read only the abstract, it says so. The small numbers in the text point here.
- Ajbani K, Chansky ME, Baumann BM. Homespun remedy, homespun toxicity: baking soda ingestion for dyspepsia.. J Emerg Med. 2011. PMID 18164162. DOI 10.1016/j.jemermed.2007.04.027. (abstract)
- Al-Abri SA, Kearney T. Baking soda misuse as a home remedy: case experience of the California Poison Control System.. J Clin Pharm Ther. 2014. PMID 24313600. DOI 10.1111/jcpt.12113. (abstract)
- American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (via MedlinePlus). MedlinePlus Drug Information: Sodium Bicarbonate. n/a. 2017. (full-text)
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Where to buy
Check the label first. Whatever you buy, look for these:
- Whether it is iodized if you rely on salt for iodine
- The origin and purity statement
- Food grade versus bath or cosmetic grade
- Sodium amount, which matters for blood pressure
Talk to a pharmacist or doctor before you start any supplement, especially if you take medicines. See the Safety tab for interactions.
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