The use of baking soda in the field of dentistry dates back far into the past. This substance can be found in numerous toothpastes, which is due to its efficiency in removing dental stains and plaque from teeth.
According to a detailed review conducted by the Journal of the American Dental Association, toothpastes that contain baking soda showed much better results in removing plaque when compared to other types of toothpaste. However, one should understand that baking soda cannot serve as an alternative to regular toothpaste as it does not possess fluoride, which helps re-mineralize enamel and prevents tooth decay.
9. A Fast-Acting (But Temporary) Antacid
Since it is an alkali, baking soda is capable of directly buffering against stomach acid. In the case of heartburn, you have stomach acid burning your esophagus, which would then need to be neutralized to relieve the burning sensation. Drinking baking soda dissolved in water does the trick.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) confirms that sodium bicarbonate is a valid short-term treatment for indigestion. But since sodium bicarbonate contains so much salt, frequent use can lead to serious side effects, including:
Elevated Blood Pressure: This excessive salt level can be fatal in patients with high blood pressure.
Electrolyte Imbalance: It will alter electrolyte balance when taken excessively.
Fluid Retention: Elevated sodium level results in retaining too much water in the body.
If heartburn is a persistent issue, it may signal a more serious underlying condition that needs a doctor’s attention.
10. The Science of the Drain Maintenance
What happens when you combine baking soda and vinegar? The famous volcano chemical reaction goes beyond being a simple school project for children. When mixed together, the ingredients form carbon dioxide gas, which has some physical force to clean out the lighter debris from your sink drain.
However, this reaction cannot solve such issues as “fatbergs” and hair clogs as it is too weak to do so. Yet, this combination makes an excellent cleaning tool to use monthly to ensure you drain stays clear of smells and minor blockages.
Addressing the Myths: What Baking Soda Cannot Do
While all of these points are indeed impressive, it is essential to mention another thing that can be found online – misinformation. One of the most harmful and persistent myths is that baking soda can not only help but actually cure cancer due to its ability to alkalize the body.
There is no scientific evidence of curing cancer by drinking baking soda. Although certain experiments were conducted to check the effect of pH on cell development in laboratory conditions, there is an extremely sophisticated system of regulating internal pH within our organism (it includes the lungs and kidneys). So you cannot just “alkalize” yourself by drinking something.
According to the American Cancer Society, alternative medicine must never be used as an absolute replacement for scientifically proven treatments. Using any kind of experimental method for treating diseases may result in the loss of time and ultimately prove fatal.
