Baking soda is generally used as a developer in cake batter, andtI rarely also used as medicine. However who knows,behind all the benefits, evidently There are a number of health hazards of baking soda.
Baking soda or also known as baking soda is one of the food additives containing the chemical sodium bicarbonate or sodium bicarbonate.
Medically, baking soda is often used to:
- Neutralizes stomach acid quickly. Therefore, baking soda can be used to treat heartburn and acid reflux disease.
- Neutralizes blood pH that is too acidic or as a treatment for acidosis.
- Boosts energy and physical performance so you don't get tired quickly. The effect of baking soda on this one is widely used by athletes.
- Maintain cleanliness and health of teeth and mouth.
- Cleanses and treats minor skin irritations.
Dangers of Baking Soda
Although it can be used to treat certain ailments, baking soda or sodium bicarbonate can also be harmful to health if used in excess or over a long period of time.
Consuming baking soda in large quantities or in the long term can cause side effects such as:
- Digestive disorders, such as constipation, stomach pain, and diarrhea.
- Seizures
- Disorders of the nerves and brain.
- Electrolyte disturbances, such as hypernatremia, hypokalemia, and hypochloremia.
- Worsening of kidney disease and heart failure.
- Disorders of blood acid-base balance, namely acidosis and alkalosis.
- Muscle weakness and muscle cramps.
- Gastric acid production increases.
Baking soda is also considered harmful if it is used too often as a skin treatment. Some of the side effects of using baking soda on the skin are dry or wrinkled skin, worsening acne, and irritation and inflammation of the skin.
In addition, baking soda used to whiten teeth can also be dangerous if used for a long time, because it can cause tooth decay.
Things to Pay Attention to Before Using Baking Soda
Given the dangers of baking soda to health, people with certain conditions are recommended to avoid foods, drinks, supplements, or drugs that contain baking soda. These conditions include:
- Has a history of kidney disease and congestive heart failure.
- It has high levels of potassium, sodium, chlorine, and calcium.
- Have a higher than normal body pH (alkalosis).
- Allergy to sodium bicarbonate.
- Is pregnant.
Administration of sodium bicarbonate for treatment in children under 6 years of age is also not recommended, except with consultation and doctor's prescription.
In general, the use of baking soda is still considered safe as long as its use is not excessive and not in the long term. Therefore, to avoid the dangers of baking soda to health, use it wisely according to the dosage and doctor's recommendations.
If you experience certain health problems or complaints after using baking soda, immediately see a doctor so that they can be examined and treated appropriately.