What is baking soda for?

As part of the culture, baking soda is part of our homes, thanks to the many benefits it provides, but what is baking soda for? It is a question that we commonly ask ourselves.

To clarify this doubt, we will make use of the opinion of many health professionals who have carried out some studies on sodium bicarbonate. Without further ado, get to know the details.

Properties of sodium bicarbonate

Sodium bicarbonate is an antacid that fights hydrochloric acid very well. In general, hydrochloric acid is secreted by the stomach, which is why it is great for combating acidity in this area.

In this sense, sodium bicarbonate is capable of reacting with other acids and producing gases. Also, it is capable of producing certain types of gases in a controlled manner. It is even capable of softening certain products by eliminating acid components.

Baking Soda Uses

Thanks to its properties, sodium bicarbonate has been used since time immemorial in the kitchen, in the carbonated beverage and pharmaceutical industry.

gastronomic uses

You will ask yourself then, what is baking soda used for in the kitchen? Well, let me say that it is one of the oldest applications that has been given. Between them:

• It is used to soften grains and level the pH of sauces.

• Help the doughs, both for desserts and salty foods, to fluff up.

industrial uses

You may be surprised to learn that this product is one of the main ingredients in some dehydrated foods.

• At an industrial level, its use has been certified for the preservation of milk, seasoning broths, among others.

• Similarly, sodium bicarbonate is a main part of soft drinks.

Pharmaceutical uses

Regarding this industry, sodium bicarbonate is usually supplied intravenously as part of the serums used in cases of barbiturate poisoning and metabolic acidosis. It is even used to control choking in newborn babies.

Similarly, this ingredient is used to create effervescent tablets, which are mostly aimed at controlling heartburn.

Other uses

Another question that you may possibly ask yourself is what is baking soda used for in the home, well let me tell you that it is good for:

• Remove stains from fabrics, especially old stains. This thanks to the gases it produces that, when making contact with the surface of the fabric, are able to remove the stains.

• Something similar happens with the smells of certain clothes, or even shoes.

• Even when you have a very strong sweating, baking soda in the company of lemon, are usually the best deodorant.

Adverse effects of constant use give baking soda

Well, believe it or not, baking soda in constant use and in high doses can cause side effects. Among the side effects indicated by experts are:

• Rebound acidity effect, when used for a long time.

• If used in high amounts, metabolic alkalosis. That brings with it the increase in the acidity of the pH in the blood and with it other cardiopulmonary conditions, or alterations of the central nervous system, to mention a few conditions.

Recommendations for use

• The best thing is that people with kidney failure, heart failure or high blood pressure should not take sodium bicarbonate treatments for a long time.

• Its intake should be a maximum of twice a day.

• In a period of consumption should not be more than two weeks.

• And in amounts less than 1 teaspoon.

With these instructions, you will be able to take full advantage of the consumption of baking soda safely, if your health is affected. I hope I have clarified your doubts about what baking soda is for and the basic properties that make this component a versatile element.

Dare to consume sodium bicarbonate to control the acidity of the pH of your stomach in a controlled manner, with the instructions that we have given you.