Baking soda appears to prime your immune system against inflammation.
When you hear the word baking soda what do you think? Chances are that you don’t think about it being beneficial to your health. Baking soda is used worldwide for baked goods, cleaning, and even toothpaste; but what most people are unaware of is that baking soda (sodium bicarbonate or NaHCO3) has numerous health benefits. In fact, in 1924 Arm & Hammer even released a booklet on the medical uses of baking soda, recommending it for use against colds and flu because it raises the pH of the blood.1
Most recently, research funded by the National Institutes of Health suggests baking soda may be an effective treatment for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and other autoimmune diseases. According to this study, led by renal physiologist Paul O’Connor and published in The Journal of Immunology, drinking a solution of water and baking soda appears to prime your immune system against inflammation.23 Keep in mind that tests are still being performed, but these early results are very promising.
The above-mentioned study was conducted on both rats and a smaller group of humans. What researchers found was that the baking soda solution promoted a “powerful anti-inflammatory response” in the spleen, an organ that plays a role in immune function. According to the study, baking soda triggers the stomach to produce more acid that can help digest your next meal. Mesothelial cells line the digestive tract and keep all your organs from rubbing against each other. These cells also relay environmental information to warn organs like the spleen that an immune response may be needed to protect itself, according to the study’s statement. When drinking baking soda, the mesothelial cells tell the spleen no immune response is needed, that you don’t need to be protected from what you are eating. The study also states that after drinking the baking soda solution, the microphages — a type of immune cell in the spleen, blood and kidneys — switched from mainly promoting inflammation to reducing inflammation.4
What if you don’t have a spleen? Would drinking baking soda without a spleen still be beneficial?
Good question, thanks for contacting us! Baking soda can still be beneficial without a spleen, as it can keep the body in an alkaline state which can help with inflammation and digestive issues.
How much should be consumed in an 8oz glass of water?
1 teaspoon in a 8oz glass per day is usually a good dose. Thanks for contacting Doctor’s Nutrition.
What if I can’t drink baking soda and water without gagging? Is there a pill form?
Sorry as far as we know they do not make it in a pill form. You might can get empty capsules, fill them up and do it that way.
Where can I get empty capsules?
We sell them here at Doctor’s Nutrition.
Is there any negative side effects or contraindications of taking baking soda?
Only main concern would be when used with antacids, do not take them at the same time. Don’t overuse baking soda, not for long term use – stay with the recommended dose. Thank you for contacting Doctor’s Nutrition. If you have any other questions or concerns you may speak with one of the doctors at 1-800-824-0194.
I have had pericarditis and every time I get a slight cold some of the symptoms come back in particular the feeling in the evening of poison been infused into my body I have followed up with Drs they feel my immune system has become overactive
Could you please recommend dose and for how long also have been told to also take magnesium
Thanks for contacting Doctor’s Nutrition Ms Lisa. Please contact us at 1-800-824-0194 and we will be glad to let you talk to one of the doctors about your questions and concerns. They are in the office Monday – Friday, 10am until 5pm.