20 Amazing Benefits of Drinking Baking Soda Water

You may consider drinking baking soda water sounds strange, but it’s a simple trick with surprising perks. It helps soothe your stomach, balance your pH levels, and even boosts your workout endurance.

Drinking baking soda water is associated with various health benefits, and research suggests there are several potential health benefits, though scientific studies are still ongoing.

Whether you’re facing heartburn, sluggish digestion, or sore muscles, this humble remedy could be a revolutionary solution. And that’s just the start—wait till you see how it supports your kidneys, skin, and immune system. Curious how one ingredient can do so much? Let’s break it down.

Neutralizes Stomach Acid and Aids Digestion

Should you have ever experienced that burning sensation in your chest after a large meal, drinking baking soda and water could assist. The alkaline nature of baking soda neutralizes stomach acid, easing discomfort and promoting digestive health by neutralizing acids to relieve gastrointestinal distress.

Mix half to one teaspoon in a glass of water—it reacts with excess acid, turning it into harmless salt and water. This simple remedy helps after overeating or indulging in greasy foods. Baking soda may act as the active ingredient in some over-the-counter antacids, helping to relieve symptoms of indigestion.

It’s not just about quick relief; baking soda water supports your gut by balancing acidity levels, reducing bloating, and improving digestion. Some people find it helps with mild indigestion too.

Just don’t overdo it—too much can upset your stomach. Always check with a doctor should symptoms persist. Consider it as a gentle, natural way to reset your digestive system whenever things feel off.

Relieves Heartburn and Acid Reflux

Should you have ever dealt with heartburn or acid reflux, you know how uncomfortable it can be.

Drinking baking soda water can neutralize stomach acid, soothing that burning sensation in your chest. Baking soda may be used to treat heartburn by providing quick relief from acid reflux symptoms, as it helps neutralize excess stomach acid. It acts fast to calm irritation and bring relief at the moment you need it most.

Neutralizes Stomach Acid

Whenever heartburn strikes after a big meal or spicy foods, drinking baking soda water can quickly ease the discomfort by balancing stomach acid.

It works by neutralizing stomach acid, turning it into harmless compounds that won’t irritate your esophagus. Here’s why it helps:

  • Fast relief: A teaspoon of baking soda in water reacts with acid, calming that burning sensation in minutes.
  • Natural antacid: Unlike some medications, it doesn’t leave a chalky aftertaste or cause dependency.
  • Reduces bloating: When baking soda reacts with stomach acid, it produces carbon dioxide gas. This carbon dioxide helps release trapped gas, easing pressure in your gut.
  • Gentle on digestion: It won’t disrupt your stomach’s natural balance if used sporadically.
  • Budget-friendly: A cheap, pantry-staple remedy beats pricey over-the-counter options.

Just don’t overdo it—too much can upset your stomach’s pH. Stick to small doses for heartburn relief.

Soothes Digestive Discomfort

Baking soda water doesn’t just tackle stomach acid—it’s a quick fix for that nagging heartburn or acid reflux creeping up after a heavy meal. Whenever you drink baking soda mixed with water, its alkaline nature neutralizes excess stomach acid, easing the burn before it gets worse. In case you’ve overindulged in spicy or greasy foods, a simple sip can calm the fiery sensation creeping up your throat. Plus, it prompts a harmless burp, relieving bloating and pressure. Just take note—moderation is key, as too much can backfire.

SymptomHow It HelpsQuick Tip
HeartburnNeutralizes stomach acidMix ½ tsp in 4 oz water
Acid RefluxSoothes throat irritationSip slowly after meals
BloatingEncourages gas releaseDrink warm for faster relief
Spicy food aftermathBalances acidityAvoid overdoing it—1x daily

Stick to small doses, and you’ll find relief without upsetting your system further.

Supports Hydration and Electrolyte Balance

Since staying hydrated isn’t just about drinking water—it’s also about keeping your electrolytes in check—baking soda water could be a simple fix you haven’t tried yet. Sodium bicarbonate, the main ingredient in baking soda, helps balance hydration levels and supports electrolyte balance, especially during exercise.

It boosts water retention and plasma volume, keeping you hydrated longer than plain water.

  • Balances sodium levels: A half-teaspoon provides 630 mg of sodium, essential for muscle function.
  • Enhances hydration: Alkaline properties improve water absorption.
  • Supports electrolyte balance: Helps prevent cramps and fatigue.
  • Reduces acidity: Creates a stomach-friendly environment for better digestion and hydration.
  • Extends endurance: Buffers lactic acid, keeping you going longer.

If you’re active or just need better hydration, baking soda water could be your new go-to. Proper hydration and electrolyte balance can also help maintain steady energy levels throughout the day.

Enhances Exercise Performance and Stamina

You can push harder during workouts while you drink baking soda water because it helps reduce lactic acid buildup in your muscles.

This means you won’t tire as quickly, letting you go longer before feeling worn out. Studies even show it boosts endurance, making it a favorite among athletes who need that extra edge. The International Society of Sports Nutrition recognizes the benefits of baking soda supplementation for improving performance during high intensity training and other athletic activities.

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Boosts Muscle Endurance

Should you have ever pushed through a tough workout and felt your muscles burn, lactic acid buildup could be to blame—but drinking baking soda water might help.

Baking soda acts as a natural buffer, balancing your body’s pH levels and delaying muscle fatigue. This means you can push harder, longer, without hitting that dreaded wall.

  • Delays fatigue: Baking soda neutralizes lactic acid, keeping your muscles working efficiently.
  • Enhances stamina: Studies show it improves performance in high-intensity activities like cycling or sprinting.
  • Supports recovery: Less soreness means you’re ready for your next session sooner.
  • Simple dosage: Mix 0.13 grams per pound of body weight in water before exercising.
  • Hydration boost: It increases plasma volume, helping you stay energized.

Reduces Lactic Acid

As your muscles scream during a tough workout, lactic acid is often the culprit—but baking soda water can help keep that burning at bay.

Whenever you push hard, lactic acid builds up, making you feel fatigued faster. Drinking baking soda water helps reduce lactic acid by balancing your body’s pH, so you can push longer without hitting that wall.

Studies show elite athletes use it to boost athletic performance, with about 0.13 grams per pound of body weight before workouts.

Mix four cups of water with ½ teaspoon of baking soda, a pinch of sea salt, and lemon for a simple energy drink.

It’s not magic, but it helps your muscles recover quicker, so you don’t crash mid-session.

Give it a try—your next workout could feel a little easier.

Reduces Lactic Acid Buildup During Workouts

  • Delays fatigue by reducing lactic acid accumulation during high-intensity workouts.
  • Boosts performance in activities like sprinting or cycling, where endurance matters most.
  • Enhances hydration by improving plasma volume, keeping you energized longer.
  • Supports recovery by minimizing post-workout soreness linked to acid buildup.
  • Optimizes dosing—about 0.13g per pound of body weight—to maximize benefits safely.

Just mix a teaspoon in water and sip it 1–2 hours before exercising.

Your muscles will thank you.

Alleviates Bloating and Gas Discomfort

Bloating and gas can turn a good day into an uncomfortable one, leaving you feeling sluggish and frustrated.

Drinking baking soda water might help alleviate gas discomfort by neutralizing stomach acids that cause bloating. Whenever you mix half a teaspoon of baking soda in water, it reacts with excess acid, easing pressure in your gut.

The bicarbonate in it can also make you burp, releasing trapped gas for quick relief. In case you’ve had a heavy or spicy meal, this simple remedy can calm your stomach and reduce that too-full feeling.

Just don’t overdo it—stick to small amounts to avoid upsetting your system. By balancing acidity, baking soda water creates a friendlier environment for digestion, so you feel lighter and more comfortable.

Freshens Breath and Combats Oral Bacteria

Bad breath can sneak up on you, making social interactions awkward, but drinking baking soda water could be the simple fix you need. Its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties help freshen your breath by neutralizing odors and fighting the bacteria that cause them.

A quick rinse or sip can balance your mouth’s pH, creating an environment where harmful bacteria struggle to survive.

Here’s how it supports oral health:

  • Neutralizes acids – Baking soda raises saliva pH, reducing the acidity that bacteria love.
  • Fights odor-causing germs – Its antibacterial properties target the microbes behind bad breath.
  • Mildly scrubs away residue – Gently removes particles that contribute to unpleasant smells.
  • Promotes a balanced mouth – Helps maintain a healthy oral microbiome.
  • Easy to use – Just mix half a teaspoon in warm water for a quick rinse or drink.

Many oral care products include oral health baking soda because it helps remove plaque, whiten teeth, and protect tooth enamel. By neutralizing acids in the mouth, oral health baking soda may also help prevent tooth decay.

It’s a simple, natural way to keep your breath fresh and your mouth healthy.

Whitens Teeth and Removes Surface Stains

Should you’ve ever wished for a brighter smile without harsh chemicals, baking soda water could be your go-to fix.

It gently whitens teeth by scrubbing away surface stains, thanks to its mild abrasive properties. Mix it with water to form a baking soda paste—this is an effective way to gently scrub away surface stains. Apply it for two minutes, then brush—its bleaching effects work subtly but effectively. While it won’t match professional treatments, regular use helps maintain a natural shine.

Plus, it fights bacteria, keeping your mouth fresh too. Just don’t overdo it; stick to a few times a week to avoid enamel wear.

It’s a simple, affordable way to brighten your smile while keeping things gentle. So next time you reach for whitening products, consider this pantry staple instead.

Promotes Kidney Health and Detoxification

You may not realize it, but your kidneys work hard to filter toxins, and baking soda water can give them a helping hand.

By balancing your urine’s acidity, it reduces strain on these essential organs and keeps them functioning smoothly.

Plus, it helps flush out waste naturally, so your body stays cleaner and healthier.

If you are considering using baking soda for health purposes, individuals with certain health conditions should consult a healthcare provider before use.

Supports Kidney Function

Because kidneys work hard to filter waste and balance fluids, keeping them in good shape matters more than you could contemplate. Drinking baking soda water can help support kidney function by maintaining an alkaline environment, which eases their workload. The bicarbonate in baking soda neutralizes excess acid, reducing stress on your kidneys and helping them function smoothly.

Here’s how baking soda benefits your kidney health:

  • Balances pH levels: Alkaline properties help reduce urinary acidity, lowering the risk of kidney stones.
  • Supports filtration: Bicarbonate ions assist in efficiently removing waste products.
  • Slows kidney decline: Studies suggest it could help manage chronic kidney disease by combating acidosis.
  • Maintains electrolytes: Keeps sodium and potassium levels stable for optimal function.
  • Safe detox: A small dose (½ tsp in water) aids kidneys without overloading them with sodium.
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Your kidneys deserve the extra care—baking soda water could just be the gentle boost they need.

Aids Natural Detoxification

While your kidneys work tirelessly to filter out toxins, baking soda water can give them a helping hand by supporting natural detoxification.

The alkaline properties help neutralize excess acidity in urine, creating a healthier environment for your urinary tract. This balance aids in flushing out metabolic waste, reducing strain on your kidneys.

Should you be prone to urinary tract infections, the mild antibacterial effect of baking soda water might ease discomfort and promote healing.

It also helps prevent kidney stones by keeping minerals dissolved, so they don’t clump together. Just mix a pinch in a glass of water—it’s a simple way to boost your body’s detox efforts.

Keep in mind, moderation is key; too much can upset your electrolyte balance. Stick to small doses for gentle, effective support.

Eases Urinary Tract Infections and Discomfort

Though UTIs can make every trip to the bathroom painful, a simple baking soda tonic could ease the burning and urgency. By neutralizing urine acidity, baking soda creates a gentler environment for your bladder, offering relief from discomfort. Here’s how it helps:

  • Balances pH levels: Baking soda reduces urine acidity, soothing irritation caused by urinary tract infections.
  • Eases burning sensations: A diluted solution can lessen the sting during urination.
  • Supports kidney health: It might aid in detoxifying your kidneys, potentially preventing recurrent infections.
  • Simple to use: Mix half to one teaspoon in a glass of water for quick relief.
  • Consult your doctor: In case you have kidney issues, check with a healthcare provider initially.

This natural remedy won’t cure infections but can make symptoms more bearable while you seek treatment.

Soothes Sore Throat and Cough Symptoms

Whenever a sore throat makes swallowing feel like a chore, sipping baking soda water could bring quick relief.

The alkaline nature of baking soda helps balance throat acidity, easing irritation. Mix half a teaspoon into warm water—the warmth soothes sore throat tissues while the baking soda reduces inflammation.

Gargling this solution also helps by flushing out bacteria, giving you faster relief. Should a cough add to your discomfort, the same mix can calm throat tickles, making breathing easier.

Since baking soda fights mild infections, it’s a handy remedy whenever throat pain strikes. Just don’t overdo it—stick to small amounts to avoid side effects.

Whether sipped or gargled, this simple blend offers comfort whenever your throat needs it most.

Reduces Inflammation and Joint Pain

Should joint pain or inflammation slow you down, drinking baking soda water could assist in easing the discomfort. The alkaline nature of baking soda helps balance your body’s pH, which can reduce inflammation and soothe achy joints.

It’s a simple remedy that targets the root of the problem—excess acidity—which often worsens joint pain.

Here’s how it works:

  • Neutralizes acidity: Baking soda balances pH levels, creating a less inflammatory environment.
  • Eases arthritis discomfort: Its anti-inflammatory properties could lessen stiffness and swelling.
  • Supports kidney detox: By reducing kidney stress, it indirectly alleviates joint pain linked to toxins.
  • Might improve gout symptoms: Lowering uric acid levels helps prevent flare-ups.
  • Acts as a natural pain reliever: Regular intake could diminish chronic inflammation over time.

Try mixing a half-teaspoon of baking soda in water daily—it may just make movement easier. However, be cautious: excessive or prolonged use of baking soda can lead to metabolic alkalosis, a condition where the blood becomes too alkaline and may cause serious health issues.

Supports Immune System Function

Should you be searching for a simple way to give your immune system a boost, drinking baking soda water could assist. It helps reduce inflammation, creating a better environment for your immune system function to thrive. By balancing pH levels, it makes it harder for harmful bacteria to grow while supporting your body’s natural defenses.

Here’s how it works:

BenefitHow It HelpsKey Impact
Alkalizes the bodyReduces aciditySupports immune cell activity
Hydrates effectivelyFlushes toxinsKeeps immune responses sharp
Aids digestionBoosts nutrient absorptionFuels immune health
Balances electrolytesRegulates fluid levelsStrengthens defense mechanisms

You’ll feel more resilient as inflammation eases and your body gets the support it needs.

Balances Ph Levels in the Body

You may not realize it, but your body’s pH balance plays a big role in how you feel every day. Drinking baking soda water has an alkalizing effect on the body, helping to balance pH levels and promote overall health.

The pH scale measures how acidic or alkaline a substance is, ranging from 0 (very acidic) to 14 (very alkaline). Baking soda is a base with a high pH, so it can shift the body’s pH toward a more alkaline state, which may support digestion and overall well-being.

It also boosts hydration by balancing electrolytes, so you stay energized and refreshed.

Neutralizes Excess Acidity

At the moment your stomach feels like it’s burning after a spicy meal or acid reflux hits, baking soda water can be a simple fix.

It works by neutralizing excess acidity, bringing your pH levels back into balance. Just mix a small amount of baking soda—about half a teaspoon—into a glass of water and sip it slowly.

This alkaline solution helps calm the burn by reacting with stomach acid, turning it into harmless salt and water.

Here’s how it helps:

  • Fast relief: Quickly soothes acid reflux and indigestion.
  • Digestive support: Eases bloating and discomfort after meals.
  • Urinary benefits: Lowers acidity in urine, reducing UTI risks.
  • Anti-inflammatory: Lessens body-wide inflammation linked to high acidity.
  • Kidney detox: Gently flushes out toxins by balancing pH.

Keep it occasional, though—too much can disrupt natural acidity.

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Supports Metabolic Function

Because your body’s pH balance plays a key role in how well your metabolism works, drinking baking soda water can help keep things running smoothly. As you mix baking soda in water, it creates a less acidic environment, which supports metabolic health by helping your cells function better. A balanced pH means your body can dismantle nutrients efficiently, giving you steady energy and reducing fatigue.

pH LevelBody StateMetabolic Impact
Too acidicFatigue, sluggishnessSlower nutrient processing
BalancedIdeal energyEfficient metabolism
Too alkalineRare, but possibleCan disrupt enzyme activity

Enhances Hydration Efficiency

While plain water keeps you hydrated, baking soda water takes it a step further by helping your body hold onto fluids more effectively.

Its alkalinity balances pH levels, neutralizing excess acid and creating a more efficient environment for hydration. The sodium content supports electrolyte balance, which keeps your hydration levels steady and could even improve endurance during workouts.

Here’s how baking soda water boosts hydration efficiency:

  • Balances pH: Reduces acidity, helping your body maintain ideal hydration.
  • Electrolyte support: Sodium aids fluid retention, preventing dehydration.
  • Reduces lactic acid: Buffers buildup during exercise, improving stamina.
  • Boosts endurance: Helps you push longer by maintaining hydration levels.
  • Improves recovery: Keeps muscles functioning smoothly post-workout.

Acts as a Natural Antacid

Should you have ever dealt with heartburn or indigestion, drinking baking soda water could provide quick relief. Its alkaline nature neutralizes stomach acid, easing discomfort by balancing pH levels.

Mix ½ to 1 teaspoon in a glass of water—it’s a simple, effective remedy for heartburn relief after meals. The reaction turns excess acid into sodium chloride, reducing bloating and gas as you burp it out.

While it’s great for occasional use, don’t overdo it should you have ongoing digestive issues. It’s gentle enough for most but check with a doctor in case you’re unsure.

Keep it handy for those moments whenever spicy foods or stress stir up trouble. Just sip slowly—it works fast, but moderation keeps things comfortable.

Helps Manage Gout Symptoms

Should you struggle with gout, drinking baking soda water could ease your discomfort by lowering uric acid levels in your body.

The alkalinity helps neutralize excess acid, which can reduce joint pain from flare-ups.

Just keep in mind to mix half a teaspoon in water daily, but check with your doctor initially should you have kidney issues.

Reduces Uric Acid

Since high uric acid levels can trigger painful gout flare-ups, drinking baking soda water could offer relief by helping your body flush out excess acid.

The alkaline nature of baking soda balances your urine’s pH, making it easier for your kidneys to remove uric acid. This simple remedy could reduce inflammation and lower the risk of gout attacks.

  • Neutralizes acidity: Baking soda’s alkalinity counteracts excess uric acid in your system.
  • Promotes excretion: It helps your kidneys filter and eliminate uric acid more efficiently.
  • Supports urinary pH: A balanced pH prevents uric acid crystals from forming.
  • Eases discomfort: Regular, moderate use may lessen gout-related pain over time.
  • Simple to prepare: Just mix half a teaspoon of baking soda in water for a quick, effective solution.

Alleviates Joint Pain

Managing joint pain from gout can feel overwhelming, but baking soda water could offer some relief. Whenever you drink baking soda mixed in water, it helps lower uric acid levels, which are often the culprit behind gout flare-ups.

High uric acid causes crystals to form in your joints, leading to painful joint inflammation. By balancing your body’s acidity, baking soda could ease swelling and discomfort. Try mixing a teaspoon in a glass of water twice daily—just check with your doctor initially.

Its anti-inflammatory properties can soothe stiff, achy joints, making movement easier. Since baking soda also supports kidney function, it helps your body flush out excess uric acid more efficiently.

Small, consistent steps like this could bring noticeable relief without harsh side effects.

Cleanses the Liver and Improves Digestion

While you mightn’t consider baking soda as a digestive aid, drinking it dissolved in water can actually help your liver and gut work more smoothly. Baking soda is a common ingredient in many household and health remedies due to its versatility. It neutralizes stomach acid, easing heartburn and creating a balanced environment for digestion.

The alkaline properties also support liver detox by flushing out impurities, helping your body process waste efficiently.

Here’s how baking soda benefits digestion and liver health:

  • Eases acid reflux: Neutralizes excess stomach acid, reducing discomfort from acidic foods.
  • Boosts digestion: Helps dismantle heavy meals, especially after overeating.
  • Supports liver function: Aids in toxin removal, keeping your liver running smoothly.
  • Balances electrolytes: Sodium in baking soda maintains hydration and gut health.
  • Reduces bloating: Alleviates gas by balancing pH levels in your digestive tract.

Just half a teaspoon in water can make a noticeable difference.

Minimizes Pesticide Residue on Produce

StepActionWhy It Works
1Mix 1 tsp baking soda + 2 cups waterCreates an alkaline solution to decompose pesticides
2Soak produce 12–15 minsGives time to loosen residues
3Rinse thoroughlyWashes away loosened contaminants
4Enjoy peel-onRetains nutrients often found in skins

It’s a small step for safer, healthier eating.

Caution: While baking soda is effective for cleaning produce, using it as a weed killer in your garden can harm other plants if not applied carefully.

Reduces Itching From Insect Bites and Stings

On average, there are 5 readers and 5 reviews in each entity. Should you have ever been bitten or stung by an insect, you know how maddening the itch can be.

Baking soda is a simple, natural remedy commonly used to soothe bug bites and other minor skin conditions. Its alkaline properties neutralize venom, reducing irritation fast.

Just mix baking soda with a little water to form a paste, apply the paste to the bite, and let it dry for 15 minutes before rinsing.

Here’s why it works so well:

  • Quick Relief: The paste calms inflammation almost instantly.
  • Easy to Make: Just 1 part water to 3 parts baking soda.
  • Safe for Skin: No harsh chemicals—gentle enough for most people.
  • Reusable: Reapply should the itch return.
  • Cost-Effective: Far cheaper than store-bought creams.

Next time you’re itching, reach for the baking soda—it’s a breakthrough remedy for bug bites and minor skin conditions that can support overall skin health by reducing irritation and promoting healing.

Soothes Sunburn and Skin Irritations

Baking soda isn’t just for insect bites—it’s also a lifesaver whenever your skin’s screaming from too much sun.

In case you’ve overdone it at the beach, a baking soda bath can work miracles. Mixing baking soda with 1-2 cups of lukewarm water and soaking for 15 minutes helps create a soothing bath for irritated skin. The alkaline properties neutralize irritation, easing redness and that tight, fiery feeling.

Its soothing effect doesn’t stop there—it also helps balance your skin’s pH, speeding up healing.

Got smaller skin irritations? Dab a paste of baking soda and water directly on the spot to calm inflammation. Some people also combine baking soda with lemon juice for skin care, but caution is needed due to the acidity of lemon juice, which can irritate sensitive skin. Plus, its antibacterial qualities keep minor burns from getting infected.

Whether it’s sunburn or random rashes, baking soda’s gentle relief makes it a must-try for irritated skin. A simple soak or spot treatment can bring sweet relief fast. However, if you are undergoing cancer treatment, consult your doctor before using home remedies like baking soda baths.

Matthew Solan
Matthew Solan

Matthew Solan, MS, RDN, CDN, is a coach who has guided over 500 people with flexible dieting. Editor of The Allfit Well, he leads by example in fitness.
With degrees in biology and education and certifications in Fitness Nutrition and Training. Matthew is an expert in fitness, nutrition, and diets, staying updated through peer-reviewed scientific studies and expert interviews.