Acid Reflux, also referred to as the Gastro esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), is a stomach disorder in which stomach acids and food are regurgitated into the oesophagus, hence causing a burning pain sensation in the lower chest. This pain in the lower chest is accompanied by other symptoms such as belching, bloating, snoring, sore throat and difficulty in breathing. It may be triggered by an array of things, including fatty or spicy foods, juices of citrus fruits and chocolates. In addition to treating the discomfort associated with this condition, it is important that you prevent damage to the oesophagus, that may be caused by this regurgitated acid. Baking soda for acid reflux is one of the commonly used remedies for this condition. The neutralizing properties of Baking soda make it ideal for treating this condition.

How Does Baking Soda for Acid Reflux Work?

Baking soda acid reflux has been proven to provide instant relief from acid reflux. The following are some of the natural properties of this baking soda for heartburn remedy that make it effective in treating Gastro esophageal Reflux Disease:

• When suffering from this condition, stomach acid burns the stomach and leads to discomfort and indigestion. Baking soda is a base nature. As such, it neutralized the acidity in the stomach, hence averting this regurgitation of acids. Owing to its quick action on stomach acids, baking soda acid reflux remedy is one of the best in the market. Additionally, this remedy may be used to cure stomach upset, digestive disorders as well as heartburn.
• Being an alkaline substance, baking soda neutralizes the acids in the stomach. This reduces the possibility of stomach contents moving back into the oesophagus. This in turn reduces the burning sensation in the throat and chest associated with this condition.
• Baking soda plays a role in maintaining a balanced pH level within the blood stream. This balance reduces the acidity of stomach contents, hence reduces the occurrence of acid reflux.
• Being an antacid, this remedy can be used to effectively cure sour stomach, heartburn, stomach upset and acid indigestion.

How to Use Baking Soda for Acid Reflux

The baking soda for acid reflux remedy is normally administered in solution form, mixed with water. To make this solution, you should follow the following steps:

Step 1: Mix half a teaspoon of baking powder in half a glass of pure water and allow the baking soda to dissolve into the water completely.

Step 2: You should then take the solution about two times in a day. Although the solution has not been proven to cause serious side effects, it is not advisable to take it more than two times in a day.

Step 3: If the symptoms of acid reflux persist after talking this solution, you should seek medical attention instead of continuing with the home remedy. This is particularly the case with patients who experience acid reflux more frequently. As a precaution, this solution should not be taken by individuals on a certain prescription medication, especially patients of high blood pressure.

Possible Risks of Baking Soda for Acid Reflux

While this remedy is so effective in combating acid reflux, it is not ideal for just any patient with acid reflux. The baking soda for heartburn contains a form of sodium. Therefore, it is not ideal for people on a low sodium diet. Additionally, the remedy may interact with other medications. It is advisable to consult your doctor regarding the risks before using this remedy. Some of the known side effects of baking soda are:

• Nausea
• Gas
• Headache
• Increased thirst
• Abdominal cramps

Baking soda for acid reflux has also been associated with serious side effects. If any of the following symptoms manifest after taking this remedy, you should see a doctor immediately:

• Difficulties while breathing
• Increased urination frequency
• Loss of appetite and unprecedented weight loss
• Tar of blood stains on the stool
• Swelling in the feet and limbs
• Urine that contains blood
• Coffee grounds like vomit

Tips and Precautions

• Do not equatebaking power with baking soda, because they are very different. Again, baking soda should not be taken in large quantities, it may lead to diarrhea.
• Baking soda for acid reflux remedy should not be given to children under 6 years old. Adults should not take more than 6 glasses of the solution within 24 hours. The aged, on the other hand, are not supposed to take more than 3 glasses in a day. Basically, consumption of this solution should not be continued for more than 2 weeks.
• Baking soda should never be used by pregnant women.
• Since this solution reduces the level of minerals and vitamins in the body, especially chromium, folic acid and vitamins B, it should only be taken on an empty stomach. The preparation should be taken preferably an hour before eating or three hours after eating.
• When dissolved in water, baking soda releases carbon dioxide, hence causing a fizz. This in turn opens the LES to relieve the pressure caused by bloating within the stomach. Unfortunately, this opening of the LES can cause regurgitation of stomach contents to the oesophagus.
•  You should leave the baking soda to dissolve completely in the water before taking it. Additionally, consult your doctor if you experience stomachache after taking the solution.