best time to drink baking soda - #13991
I am really confused about this whole baking soda thing. I read somewhere that there’s a "best time to drink baking soda" and thought maybe it could help with some bloating I've been having. Like, last month, I had this really uncomfortable feeling in my stomach after almost every meal. Thought it was just bad food choices or something, but it didn’t go away, and I feel like I’m stuck in a loop. I started feeling more lethargic and thought maybe that was from not digesting my food well. A friend suggested baking soda as a remedy. But, when is the best time to drink baking soda? I mean, I tried it in the morning with water, but didn’t notice much. Should I be taking it before meals or after? I came across this idea that drinking it right before bed is good too, but wonder if that’s true. If I wait too long, will it not work? I truly wanna avoid any more bloating, and if there’s a “best time to drink baking soda,” I need to know! Also, how often can I drink it without overdoing it? I'm just really lost here and could use some advice from allopathi doctors. Thanks for any help!
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Doctors’ responses
Determining the best time to drink baking soda for managing bloating is a bit nuanced and varies based on individual experience and needs. Baking soda acts as an antacid, helping to neutralize stomach acid, which can alleviate symptoms like bloating or indigestion. Commonly, people dissolve a small amount, typically around half a teaspoon, in a glass of water. If you opt to try this, consuming it on an empty stomach (such as in the morning or between meals) could potentially provide quicker relief. Drinking it before meals may help if you experience bloating due to acid reflux, as it might buffer stomach acidity before food intake. However, consuming it right before bed is generally not advised, as lying down can actually exacerbate reflux symptoms.
It’s crucial to approach baking soda use with caution. Regular or long-term use isn’t recommended, as it can lead to metabolic alkalosis, an acid-base imbalance in the blood, and other potential side effects like increased sodium intake which can affect blood pressure. Ideally, limit use to occasional or short-term relief, only when symptoms are present. If your bloating persists despite these efforts, or if you’re feeling lethargic and it’s interfering with your daily life, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to explore underlying causes. Conditions like food intolerances, gastrointestinal issues, or even stress and dietary habits should be evaluated to address the root cause. Incorporating non-drug measures like adjusting meal portions, monitoring food triggers, or increasing fiber intake could also help. Keep your broader health context in mind, and balancing safety with symptom management is key.
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