Baking soda for heartburn? Not so fast (2024)

Written by Daney Helgadóttir

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid backs up into your esophagus, which is the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach.

The lining of the esophagus is not equipped to handle acid, leading to irritation and a burning sensation. This painful experience is commonly known as heartburn.

You may also experience a sore throat or a sour taste in your mouth with acid reflux.

Acid reflux occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) — a muscle that separates the stomach from the esophagus — doesn’t close properly.

Heartburn may be temporary or persistent. Occasional heartburn may result from dietary choices or lifestyle factors, such as having a heavy meal or spicy food.

If heartburn becomes recurrent, it may lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Baking soda for heartburn and acid reflux relief

Baking soda is sodium bicarbonate. It has long been hailed as a potential remedy for indigestion and acid reflux.

Does it work?

Baking soda may help neutralize stomach acid and provide relief to heartburn. It’s a common ingredient in antacids, suggesting its efficacy for treating acid reflux and associated symptoms in some people.

A 2020 study indicated that drinking mineral water with baking soda may improve GERD symptoms, including heartburn.

A 2022 review suggested antacids, including those containing baking soda, provide effective relief from acid reflux, GERD, and associated symptoms like heartburn.

Dosage and frequency

No official guidelines exist on how to use baking soda for heartburn. Consulting with a healthcare professional is recommended.

Based on anecdotal and literature information, half a teaspoon of baking soda in 8–12 oz of water may offer prompt heartburn relief, particularly on an empty stomach. The mix may start working within seconds, and the effects may last up to 2 hours.

An antacid containing baking soda may be safer and more effective, though. You can then follow the dosage and frequency recommended on the packaging.

Precaution and considerations

While baking soda may provide temporary relief, there are precautions to consider.

Consuming too much baking soda may lead to fluid buildup. It may also disrupt the body’s natural acid-base balance and lead to metabolic alkalosis when your blood turns too alkaline.

Because of these risks, using baking soda for heartburn is not recommended for:

• pregnant people
• children ages 2 and younger
• people with heart or kidney disease

Consult with your healthcare professional before taking baking soda or antacids if you are taking these medications:

• antibiotics
• nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• mesalamine (Apriso) or sulfasalazine (Azulfidine) for ulcerative colitis

Using baking soda after eating large amounts of food in one sitting may cause severe adverse effects, including stomach rupture.

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Medications for heartburn

The most effective medication for heartburn depends on the duration and severity of your symptoms.

Antacids

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications may neutralize stomach acid. They suit occasional, mild heartburn symptoms. Options may include:

• calcium carbonate (Tums, Calci-Chew, Alka-Mints, Oyster Calcium)
• magnesium hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia, Rolaids)
• bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto Bismol)

The American College of Gastroenterology recommends that you consult a doctor before using OTC antacids more than twice a week. This is to rule out any underlying health conditions, explore if lifestyle measures could help you, and assess whether you could benefit from prescription medications.

Proton pump inhibitors

PPIs reduce how much acid your stomach produces. You typically need a prescription to buy them, though a few options are available OTC.

PPIs may manage long-term severe heartburn.

Options include:

• dexlansoprazole (Dexilant)
• pantoprazole (Protonix)
• lansoprazole (Prevacid)
• esomeprazole (Nexium)
• omeprazole (Prilosec)
• rabeprazole (Aciphex)

H2 blockers

These medications also reduce how much acid your stomach produces. They require a prescription.

Options include:

• famotidine (Pepcid AC)
• cimetidine (Tagamet)
• nizatidine (Axid)

Gastrointestinal (GI) stimulants

These prescription drugs help contract the muscles in your digestive system, making your stomach empty faster.

Options include metoclopramide (Reglan).

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Summary

Baking soda may relieve heartburn and other symptoms of acid reflux, but you may want to consult a doctor before taking it as a regular aid. Potential adverse effects may include drug interactions and stomach rupture.

OTC and prescription medications like antacids, H2 blockers, and PPIs may be safer options.