Eating or ingesting baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) can have serious health effects, especially if taken in large amounts. Here is what can happen:
- Mild use : In small amounts, baking soda can temporarily relieve indigestion by neutralizing stomach acid, similar to some over-the-counter antacids
- Digestive symptoms : Excessive intake often causes vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort because the body tries to correct the high sodium concentration by pulling water into the digestive tract
- Electrolyte imbalances and metabolic alkalosis : Large doses can cause metabolic alkalosis, a dangerous condition where the blood becomes too alkaline. This can lead to muscle weakness, spasms, irregular heartbeat, seizures, and altered mental status
- Severe toxicity : High sodium levels (hypernatremia) from baking soda ingestion can cause dehydration, kidney failure, and neurological issues such as seizures, lethargy, and in rare cases, brain hemorrhage due to neuronal cell shrinkage and vascular damage
- Cardiopulmonary risks : Severe cases may result in cardiac arrhythmias, cardiopulmonary arrest, and respiratory depression as the body tries to compensate for pH imbalances
- Gastric rupture risk : The reaction of baking soda with stomach acid produces carbon dioxide gas, which in large amounts can cause dangerous stomach distension and even rupture
- Populations at risk : Children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, people with kidney problems, or those with heart conditions should avoid ingesting baking soda due to increased risk of complications
If someone ingests a large amount of baking soda and experiences symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, muscle spasms, or confusion, immediate medical attention is necessary. Poison control centers can provide guidance, and emergency care may include monitoring vital signs, blood tests, intravenous fluids, and treatment of symptoms
. In summary, while small amounts of baking soda can be used safely for indigestion, eating or drinking large quantities can cause serious and potentially life-threatening health problems
