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Baking soda uses for skin or body are generally considered safe and nontoxic. Consuming it orally is also safe, but don’t exceed the recommended dose. Too much baking soda can upset the body’s acid-base balance leading to nausea, vomiting and/or abdominal pain. Rare cases of baking soda overdose lead to seizures, coma and death.
It is high in sodium — 1,259 milligrams in one teaspoon — so high doses are not safe. High doses can raise blood pressure and cause swelling. In severe cases, it can overload circulation and lead to heart failure. People who consume too much baking soda have reportedly developed blood chemistry imbalances and heart malfunction (ineffective pumping).
Another reason not to overdo your consumption is that it can increase potassium excretion which could lead to a potassium deficiency.
If you have edema, liver disease, kidney disease or high blood pressure, you should avoid taking it internally. You should also refrain from consuming itif you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
If you are on prescription drugs, consult your doctor before consuming it, and make sure you speak to your doctor about drinking baking soda if you are on a sodium-restricted diet.
You should not take it within two hours of taking other medications. It’s also not recommended to give it to children under six years of age unless directed by your pediatrician.
If you are using baking soda to treat a medical condition, and it has been more than two weeks, it’s a good idea to see your doctor to be sure that you can continue self-medicating.
Some products that may interact with baking soda include aspirin and other salicylates, barbiturates, calcium supplements, corticosteroids, medications with a special coating to protect the stomach, lithium, quinidine, and diuretics.
Speak with your doctor before using sodium bicarbonate if you are currently taking any medications or have any ongoing health concerns. *
