Juice Concentrate
Vegetable juice
Juice Milk
Stand Up Pouches
Baking soda, a versatile household ingredient known for its various uses, has gained popularity in recent years as a potential aid for weight loss. Claims have been made that consuming baking soda, either mixed with water, apple cider vinegar, or lemon juice, can help shed excess weight. Additionally, some suggest that soaking in a baking soda bath may promote weight loss. In this article, we will explore the effectiveness of baking soda for weight loss and discuss the potential risks associated with ingesting baking soda concoctions.
Likely Has Little Direct Effects on Weight Loss
Although many people believe that baking soda can alkalize the body and promote weight loss, scientific evidence to support this theory is lacking. The body maintains tightly regulated pH levels through internal processes, and what you eat or drink has minimal impact on these levels. Therefore, the alkalizing effects of baking soda are unlikely to directly influence weight loss (1, 2).
Another theory suggests that adding baking soda to bathwater can replenish magnesium and sulfate levels, which are believed to boost metabolism and eliminate toxins, resulting in weight loss. However, there is no scientific backing for this claim either. Although baking soda can soothe an upset stomach by neutralizing stomach acid, creating carbon dioxide gas that causes burping, it does not directly affect overall body fat (3).
May Have Minor, Indirect Effects on Weight Loss
While baking soda itself may not contribute significantly to weight loss, the liquid it is mixed with could have some indirect effects. Many people choose to dilute baking soda in water, apple cider vinegar, or lemon juice. These beverages, when consumed daily, may increase fluid intake, leading to improved hydration levels. Studies suggest that adequate hydration can reduce hunger, increase metabolism, and promote body fat loss (7, 8, 9).
However, it is essential to note that these potential weight-loss-promoting effects are primarily related to the other liquids involved rather than baking soda itself. Adding baking soda to the mix may offer few additional benefits (10, 11).
Metabolic Acidosis
Consuming excessive amounts of baking soda can be dangerous and potentially lead to metabolic acidosis. Metabolic acidosis occurs when the body loses control over its blood pH due to an excess intake of alkaline compounds like baking soda (12). This condition can cause muscle weakness, spasms, irregular heartbeat, and altered mental status. If left untreated, it can become life-threatening (13).
High Blood Pressure and Other Health Effects
Baking soda is high in sodium, which means that consuming large quantities can increase blood pressure, cause fluid accumulation, and even lead to heart failure in some individuals. People with alcoholism or compromised kidney function should be especially cautious (14, 15). It’s important to note that baking soda can also cause breathing difficulties and seizures in young children, making it unsuitable for those under 5 years old. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also avoid its intake (15).
When combined with acids like apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, baking soda causes a chemical reaction that releases carbon dioxide gas. This can result in gas or bloating, particularly if consumed before all the gas has escaped (3).
Medication Interactions and Long-term Safety
Baking soda may interact with certain medications, so it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before incorporating it into your diet (3, 16). Furthermore, there is limited information available on the long-term safety of ingesting baking soda, either alone or in combination with lemon juice or apple cider vinegar. Until more research emerges, it may be safer to avoid these mixtures (17).
It is worth noting that soaking in a bathtub containing baking soda may be a safer alternative to ingestion. However, there are no studies investigating the benefits or risks associated with this practice, so caution is still advised (17).
Conclusion
In conclusion, while baking soda has gained popularity as a weight loss aid, there is little scientific evidence to support its effectiveness. The claims suggesting that baking soda can directly promote weight loss or prevent weight gain by alkalizing the body have been debunked time and time again. However, it is possible that mixing baking soda with other liquids such as water, apple cider vinegar, or lemon juice may have indirect weight-loss-promoting effects due to increased hydration levels.
Consuming excessive amounts of baking soda can lead to metabolic acidosis, high blood pressure, and other health complications, especially for individuals with specific medical conditions or those taking certain medications. Therefore, it is crucial to exercise caution and consult a healthcare professional before incorporating baking soda into your routine.
In summary, the current scientific evidence does not support the notion that drinking baking soda alone will lead to significant weight loss. It is always best to focus on a well-balanced diet, regular physical activity, and consulting with a healthcare professional for personalized advice when aiming for healthy weight management.
