Baking Soda Trend Gains Traction on Social Media
An old pantry staple is making waves in the online health community. Many online creators are sharing videos of themselves mixing baking soda into water, touting its presumed health benefits.
Dr. Christie Youssef, a family medicine practitioner with Kaiser Permanente in Fair Oaks, Virginia, noted the popularity of this trend is likely due to social media.
But how healthy is this concoction? Youssef explained that people are drinking baking soda, sodium bicarbonate, in an effort to reduce the acidity in the muscles—the working muscles—which could lead to less muscle fatigue and improved performance, especially with heavy exercise.
She said the alkaline properties of baking soda might support this theory, but there’s little-to-no documented scientific evidence to back it up. Nevertheless, the trend continues, complete with its own name: “soda loading.”
Youssef also pointed out that baking soda has other well-known health benefits. It’s an ingredient in antacids and can help with heartburn and acid reflux. However, there are risks associated with ingesting too much baking soda.
Youssef warned, “You do not want to make your stomach too alkaline.” Overconsumption of baking soda can lead to digestive issues like abdominal discomfort, nausea, and vomiting, and in some cases, diarrhea. It can also cause you to expel valuable electrolytes and water from your body, potentially leading to severe dehydration, headaches, or nausea.
The key takeaway from Youssef is to use baking soda with caution and in moderation. She recommended that for this trend, a safe dosage would be anywhere from 2-3 teaspoons a day, but no more than 5 teaspoons a day. Above all, she emphasized that exercise, diet, lifestyle modification are the best ways to stay fit and healthy.
For those interested in trying this trend, Youssef advised referring to guidelines for treating acid reflux and heartburn, which typically suggest taking 3 teaspoons of baking soda a day.
As for the scientific consensus on recommended dosages for this trend, Youssef said there isn’t one—yet. She added that there’s no magic shortcut to becoming fit; the ultimate substitute is changing your lifestyle and staying active to reach your goals.
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