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Sodium Bicarbonate: Benefits and Dangers You Should Know

Nutrition
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Sodium bicarbonate is one of the most versatile home remedies that exist, but also one of the most misunderstood. This alkaline compound, scientifically known as sodium bicarbonate, can be your ally or become a problem if you don't know how to use it correctly.

What is Sodium Bicarbonate and How Does It Work?

Sodium bicarbonate is an alkaline compound that your own body produces naturally. Your pancreas generates it to neutralize the strong acids that arrive from the stomach to the small intestine. This process is crucial for the functioning of pancreatic enzymes that digest fats.

When the pancreas doesn't produce enough sodium bicarbonate, symptoms can appear such as:

  • Severe bloating
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • General digestive problems

The Acid-Alkaline Balance of the Digestive System

For optimal functioning, you need:

  • A very acidic stomach (pH between 1-3, like battery acid)
  • An alkaline small intestine for proper digestion

Proven Benefits of Sodium Bicarbonate

1. Temporary Relief from Heartburn

For problems like acid reflux or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), a small amount of bicarbonate can provide temporary relief. However, it's important to understand that:

  • DON'T use bicarbonate for indigestion: Indigestion indicates lack of stomach acid
  • For indigestion, use apple cider vinegar or betaine hydrochloride
  • Bicarbonate should only be temporary relief while you resolve the underlying problem

2. Gastritis Treatment

For cases of gastritis, bicarbonate can be beneficial, especially when combined with:

  • Zinc carnosine: for real healing of the problem
  • Supervised medical protocol

3. Superior Oral Hygiene

Bicarbonate is excellent for:

  • Neutralizing bacterial acids in the mouth
  • Preventing plaque and tartar formation
  • Natural ingredient in homemade toothpaste

Key tip: Eliminating sugar from the diet is fundamental, as sugar feeds acid-producing bacteria.

4. Kidney Problems and Acidosis

For people with kidney damage, bicarbonate can:

  • Relieve itching caused by excess acid
  • Neutralize acidity and reduce kidney stress
  • Prolong time before dialysis
  • Help when kidneys cannot regulate pH properly

5. Athletic Performance

For athletes seeking competitive advantage:

  • Reduces lactic acid accumulation
  • Allows greater number of repetitions
  • Improves performance in high-intensity activities
  • Recommended dose: 2 grams per kilogram of body weight
  • Important: Take gradually to avoid nausea

6. Kidney Stone Prevention

Bicarbonate helps to:

  • Dissolve uric acid in urine
  • Prevent kidney stone formation
  • Temporarily relieve gout symptoms

7. Urinary Tract Infection Treatment

For urinary tract infections (UTI):

  • Changes the urinary environment
  • Makes it difficult for pathogens to survive
  • Provides temporary relief while seeking medical treatment

Specific Topical Uses

Insect Bites

Apply wet bicarbonate ONLY for:

  • Ants (especially fire ants)
  • Bees

DO NOT apply for:

  • Wasps: use vinegar instead
  • Spiders: use activated charcoal or bentonite clay
  • Snakes: use milk thistle

Natural Pest Control

Mix bicarbonate with sugar to eliminate cockroaches naturally:

  • Chemical reaction generates CO₂
  • Ruptures the insect's digestive system
  • Natural alternative to chemical insecticides

Important Precautions and Contraindications

⚠️ Never Mix With Acids

NEVER combine bicarbonate with:

  • Vinegar
  • Lemon juice
  • Other acids

Reason: Generates excess CO₂ causing severe stomach bloating.

Chronic Use: Serious Risks

Prolonged use of bicarbonate can cause:

  • Excessive neutralization of stomach acid
  • Inability to digest proteins
  • Vitamin B12 deficiency
  • Mineral absorption problems
  • Inability to eliminate pathogens from food

When NOT to Use It

  • Indigestion: indicates lack of acid, not excess
  • Prolonged daily use: without medical supervision
  • Existing electrolyte problems

Additional Household Uses

Natural Odor Eliminator

  • Place an open container in the refrigerator
  • Absorbs and neutralizes odors naturally
  • Replace every 3 months for maximum effectiveness

Conclusion: Use Wisely

Sodium bicarbonate is a powerful tool when used correctly and in moderation. The benefits are real, but so are the risks of improper use.

Golden Rules:

  1. Use it temporarily, not chronically
  2. Never for indigestion
  3. Don't mix with acids
  4. Consult doctors for serious health problems

Remember: bicarbonate can help you or harm you. The difference lies in how, when and why you use it. Always prioritize addressing the underlying causes of digestive problems instead of just masking the symptoms.