What is baking soda?
Baking soda, chemically known as sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃), is a simple white alkaline powder that's most commonly used for baking or household cleaning.
But did you know that baking soda can also be used in other aspects of daily life?
For instance, it's often used to balance the acid-base level in the body (as an alkaline, it can neutralise acids) and bind toxins [1].
Of course, we're mostly interested in whether or not it can promote better sleep [2].
Benefits of drinking baking soda at night
Baking soda is a bit of a wonder remedy.
According to research [3], some of the benefits of drinking baking soda at night include:
- Alleviating heartburn
- Reducing inflammation
- Boosting the immune system
- Reducing excess acidity
These benefits are likely due to the fact that baking soda stimulates the spleen [4] to create an anti-inflammatory environment in the body.
But drinking baking soda at night also has the potential to improve your sleep hygiene and your overall sleep quality.
This is because of baking soda's alkaline nature.
Some researchers [5] believe that baking soda balances the acid-base level in your body, which also regulates excess stomach acid and thereby eases heartburn and throat discomfort.
Unbalanced stomach acid levels may actually contribute to restless sleep and sleep disorders.
By calming the acid-base balance in your digestive tract, baking soda may help you sleep more peacefully.
How to take baking soda before bedtime
It’s simple:
Mix half a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of cold water (250 ml) and glug away.
You can also add a bit of apple cider vinegar for taste or drink it with warm water.
Once ingested, the baking soda should start working immediately, but it may take up to 30 minutes before it kicks into action.
How often should I take baking soda before bedtime?
Even though baking soda has many benefits, moderation is key!
Taking baking soda once a day before bed is enough.
When is the best time to drink baking soda?
You can drink your baking soda mixture an hour before bed for the best sleep-promoting results.
Can drinking baking soda be dangerous?
While not necessarily dangerous, drinking too much baking soda can have a negative effect on your body.
Overconsumption can lead to stomach issues or electrolyte imbalances, which can, in turn, lead to:
- Increased burping
- Stomach aches
- Flatulence
- Feeling too "full"
People with certain health conditions like high blood pressure or kidney issues should also be cautious and consult a doctor or healthcare practitioner if necessary.
Concluding thoughts: Should you drink baking soda before bed?
Drinking baking soda for sleep before bed can be helpful, especially if you struggle with heartburn or feel that your body is out of balance.
This small home remedy can neutralise stomach acid and reduce discomfort, helping you sleep better.
However, consuming too much baking soda can disturb your electrolyte balance and potentially lead to stomach problems.
Overall, though, baking soda is a simple and cost-effective remedy that can help you sleep more peacefully, as long as you use it in moderation and listen to your body.
Frequently asked questions
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When does baking soda start working?
Drinking baking soda before bed can have an immediate effect.
You don’t have to wait long for heartburn to calm down, allowing you to fall asleep quickly and more comfortably.
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How can you use baking soda in daily life?
Baking soda is versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes, including:
- Gentle abrasive (cleaning surfaces)
- Removing unpleasant odours
- Whitening clothes
- Alternative to chemical drain cleaners (with vinegar)
- Component in fire extinguishers
You may be interested in reading our guide on how to clean a mattress to see what other homemade remedies provide fixes.
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When should you avoid drinking baking soda?
While baking soda has many positive properties, there are situations where caution is needed.
People with high blood pressure or heart problems should avoid drinking baking soda since it can raise sodium levels in the body.
Caution is also advised for those with kidney issues.
If you’re taking medication that affects stomach pH, baking soda can interfere with its effectiveness.
Pregnant women should also avoid baking soda as it might affect the unborn baby's acid-base balance.
In general, consult your doctor if you're unsure.
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How does baking soda detoxify the body?
Baking soda is often touted as a gentle detox aid.
It helps regulate the acid-base balance and alkalises the body, supporting detox processes.
By neutralising acids, it eases the body's load and boosts overall well-being.
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What are the benefits of baking soda for the gut?
Baking soda can work wonders in the gut, helping to regulate pH levels and aiding digestion.
Drinking baking soda can relieve heartburn, reduce bloating, and promote regular bowel movements.
It’s also used against intestinal parasites as it alters the gut environment and makes it more difficult for them to survive.
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Is it safe to drink baking soda?
Baking soda can be useful if used correctly; however, it’s important not to overdo it.
Too much baking soda can disrupt your electrolyte balance and cause long-term health problems.
But in moderation and with occasional use, baking soda is safe for most people.
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Is baking soda good for high blood pressure?
Baking soda contains sodium and could potentially increase blood pressure.
Therefore, be cautious, especially if you already have high blood pressure.
Some experts advise against it entirely, while others consider it safe in very small amounts.
If you drink baking soda, monitor your blood pressure closely and consult a doctor if unsure.
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References
- 1 https://www.researchgate.net/profile/robert-young-70/publication/323910953_using_sodium_and_potassium_bicarbonates_in_the_prevention_and_treatment_of_all_sickness_and_disease/links/657ceae98e2401526dd85ae5/using-sodium-and-potassium-bicarbonates-in-the-prevention-and-treatment-of-all-sickness-and-disease.pdf
- 2 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/s1744388122001827
- 3 https://journals.humankinetics.com/view/journals/ijsnem/21/3/article-p189.xml
- 4 The immunomodulatory effect of oral NaHCO3 is mediated by the splenic nerve: multivariate impact revealed by artificial neural networks | Journal of Neuroinflammation
- 5 https://journals.aai.org/jimmunol/article/200/10/3568/106666/oral-nahco3-activates-a-splenic-anti-inflammatory
Comments
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We hope it serves you well!
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It may help with some ulcers, but we'd recommend checking with your GP or healthcare professional.
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We're so glad to hear it - thank you for taking the time to leave a comment!
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These are the same thing, correct. Sodium bicarbonate is the scientific name for the chemical compound.
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Popular opinion is 2 grams dissolved in 250 ml water. But, this does vary from person to person. We're not medical professionals, so please check with your doctor or healthcare professional.
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It is meant to help, yes.
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So glad it's been helpful :)
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