Baking Soda for Indigestion

I guess there may not be one person around who has not suffered from indigestion at some point of time or the other in his life. No doubt, it causes a lot of discomfort and makes it difficult to perform day-to-day activities as well. There are different reasons which can cause indigestion.

In most cases, it is caused due to overeating or by eating spicy food. Some people may also suffer from an upset stomach (the other name of indigestion), when they eat very fast. Other than these, there are other causes of this condition as well.

Some drugs are known to cause indigestion, and so are allergies, sedentary lifestyle, etc. At this point, the most common question is, what are the most common symptoms of this condition.

The answer to this question is loss of appetite, constipation, excessive gas, pain and / or a burning sensation in the abdomen. If you are of the opinion that you are suffering from indigestion, then using baking soda is the best remedy.

When one has indigestion, it is caused due to the food that is consumed. Taking baking soda helps to break the food particles, which are difficult for the digestive system to digest. Fat is often the culprit during indigestion. Baking soda combined with water, breaks the fatty substances, which helps in the digestion process.

The stomach acids are neutralized, that are often the cause of stomach upsets. If there is rumbling in the stomach also is reduced with the help of baking soda. In other words, it actually works like an antacid, able to get rid of heartburn, sour stomach, acid indigestion, etc. It also helps in relieving symptoms associated with stomach or duodenal ulcers.

One of the simplest ways to use baking soda for heartburn, is to mix baking soda with water. About half a teaspoon of baking soda should be added to about half a cup of water. If a person does not have any ailment other than indigestion, then this remedy can also be used every 2 to 3 hours, to relieve the discomfort.

Another recipe involves combining baking soda with 1 teaspoon of lemon juice and a few crushed peppermint leaves. Add half a cup of water to the concoction and have it immediately. Peppermint helps in soothing an upset stomach, and its combination with baking soda brings immense relief from the problem. If required, a small ice cube can also be added to the mixture, especially if there is a burning sensation in the stomach.

The next remedy involves peppermint as well. However, for this remedy, peppermint tea will have to be made. Make peppermint tea and add half to one teaspoon of baking soda to it, and have the concoction immediately. If you want, you may choose to add lemon juice to the tea. It is important to note that it will take anywhere between 10 to 15 minutes for the remedy to show its effect.

Here is another remedy, where you can use baking soda for indigestion relief. In half a glass of water, add half a teaspoon of baking soda, and stir well. Then add 1 teaspoon of vinegar to the mixture. The moment vinegar is added to the mixture, you will see bubbles.

However, if there are no bubbles in sight, then add some more baking soda and vinegar to the mixture. When the bubbles appear, have the concoction in about 10 seconds time. Like the previous recipes, this will also take about 10 to 15 minutes to show its effects.

This brings us to the question, what is the right dosage of baking soda to be taken for relief from indigestion. It is advisable not to use these remedies for children below the age of 6, unless prescribed by a doctor. The right dosage for adults is anywhere between half to one and a half teaspoon of baking soda. For children above the age of 6, it is quarter to half a teaspoon.

The dosage for children below the age of 6 should be as decided by your doctor. It is not advisable to use baking soda to relieve indigestion for those people suffering from congestive heart failure, kidney damage, live cirrhosis, etc. Women who are pregnant or are breastfeeding too should consult their doctor, before they use these remedies.

Disclaimer: This story is for informational purpose only. It cannot be substituted for a medical practitioner's advice.