Be careful with baking soda; it can cause more harm than good
Side Effects of Baking Soda: Hidden Risks of a Popular Helper
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a substance that many people perceive as harmless and versatile. It is used not only in the kitchen for baking but also as a natural remedy for stomach acidity, a means for teeth whitening, a component of home cosmetics, or an eco-friendly cleaning agent. Although it has wide usage and many enthusiasts, its excessive or improper use can lead to side effects that can affect health in various ways.
How Does Baking Soda Affect the Body?
Baking soda is an alkaline substance that neutralizes acids. This can be useful, for example, for heartburn, as it quickly reduces stomach acidity. However, regular use can paradoxically lead to the opposite effect – the stomach starts producing more acid, thus returning or even worsening the original problem. This effect is known as the "rebound phenomenon" and can cause a person to feel the need to use baking soda more frequently, creating a vicious cycle.
Another important aspect is the high sodium content in baking soda. Sodium is essential for body function, but in large amounts, it can contribute to hypertension (high blood pressure), water retention in the body, or kidney strain. People with high blood pressure, heart diseases, or kidney disease should therefore be very cautious with the use of baking soda.
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Side Effects of Internal Use
1. Digestive Problems
Baking soda, when in contact with stomach acid, creates carbon dioxide, which can cause bloating and abdominal pressure. Some people experience strong belching or an unpleasant feeling of fullness after using it.
In larger amounts, baking soda can also cause diarrhea or conversely constipation, as it disrupts the natural balance of digestive enzymes and bacteria in the intestines. For this reason, it is not suitable for long-term use, especially in chronic digestive issues.
2. Risk of Metabolic Alkalosis
If baking soda is used frequently or in high doses, it can change the blood's pH towards higher alkalinity. This condition is called metabolic alkalosis and manifests as muscle weakness, nausea, confusion, tremors, and in more severe cases, heart arrhythmia.
3. Impaired Kidney Function
Baking soda alters the balance of minerals in the body and increases the load on the kidneys, which are responsible for filtering excess sodium and regulating blood pH. People with kidney problems should avoid the internal consumption of baking soda to prevent further complications.
4. Possible Effects on Potassium and Calcium Levels
Long-term use of baking soda can affect the levels of electrolytes in the body, especially potassium and calcium. A deficiency in potassium can lead to fatigue, weakness, or irregular heart rhythm. Calcium is essential for bone health, and its reduction can increase the risk of osteoporosis.
Side Effects on the Oral Cavity
Baking soda is often promoted as a natural teeth-whitening agent. It is true that it can remove surface stains and deposits, but it also acts abrasively on tooth enamel. If used too frequently or without sufficient enamel protection (such as fluoride toothpaste), it can lead to enamel weakening.
As a consequence, there may be increased sensitivity of teeth to temperature changes and acidic foods, increased risk of tooth decay, and damage to the gums. Additionally, its alkaline properties can disrupt the natural bacterial balance in the mouth, which may cause bad breath or increase susceptibility to infections.
Impact of Baking Soda on Skin and Hair
Baking soda is often used in natural skincare and hair care, but its alkaline pH can disrupt the natural protective barrier of the skin. When applied to the skin, it acts as a peeling agent, removing dead cells, but it can also cause dryness, irritation, or redness. Sensitive skin may react with rashes or eczema, and long-term use can weaken the skin's ability to retain moisture. Therefore, it is important to combine baking soda with moisturizing ingredients or use it sparingly.
Similarly, baking soda can negatively affect hair and scalp. Although it can remove excess oil and styling product residues, frequent use can lead to excessive hair dryness and brittleness. The scalp may become irritated, which can trigger itching and increased dandruff production. For colored hair, baking soda can disrupt the pigment and cause faster color fading, losing its shine and vitality. If you still want to use it as a shampoo alternative, it is advisable to dilute it and combine it with natural oils to mitigate its aggressive effect.
Who Should Be Cautious with Baking Soda Use?
Although baking soda has its benefits, it should be used cautiously. Special caution should be exercised by:
- People with high blood pressure – sodium can contribute to its increase.
- Individuals with kidney disease – due to the increased load on the kidneys.
- People with sensitive digestion – it can trigger digestive issues.
- Pregnant women – due to the potential impact on electrolyte balance.
- Children – their bodies are more sensitive to pH changes.
Baking soda is an effective and versatile helper, but its use also has disadvantages. The side effects of baking soda manifest especially with excessive or long-term use and can affect digestion, blood pressure, teeth, skin, and hair. If you use it as a home remedy or cosmetic agent, it is advisable to be cautious and adhere to the principle of "everything in moderation."
