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Published on: 7/14/2026

What are the potential side effects of using baking soda for heartburn relief?

Yoshinori Abe

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Baking soda is sometimes used as a quick home remedy for heartburn, but it can cause serious side effects. These include stomach problems (such as bloating, gas, and nausea), headaches, electrolyte imbalances, high blood pressure, and swelling. In some cases, excessive use may even lead to metabolic alkalosis or worsen underlying health conditions.

If you're experiencing frequent heartburn, it's important to understand the root cause rather than mask symptoms with risky remedies. Recurring heartburn can signal conditions like GERD, ulcers, or even hiatal hernia—each requiring different treatment approaches. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to get personalized insights into what may be causing your discomfort and clear guidance on your next steps. It takes just a few minutes and could help you avoid unnecessary complications.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026

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Important Next Steps

Learn if baking soda heartburn needs careDiscover what causes your heartburn after baking sodaSee if symptoms signal a serious reactionFind OTC heartburn relief optionsFind a doctor for heartburn concernsDiscover safe home remedies for heartburnUnderstand if baking soda side effects need care

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Explanation

Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is sometimes used to relieve heartburn. However, it can have serious side effects. Potential Side Effects:

  1. Stomach Issues: Using too much baking soda can upset your stomach. It can cause pain, bloating, and gas. Other possible sides effects include frequent urination, loss of appetite, muscle cramps, electrolyte problems, mood changes, swelling and many other possible side effects.

While baking soda can offer quick relief, it's important to only take this under the strict supervision of a doctor. If you have ongoing heartburn, you can check your symptoms with our free AI-powered tool or talk to a doctor for safer treatment options.

(References)

  • Jensen S, & Skriver S. (2014). Self-treatment with baking soda can lead to severe .... Ugeskrift for laeger, 25497637.

  • Han YJ, Roy S, Siau AMPL, & Majid A. (2022). Binge-eating and sodium bicarbonate. Journal of eating disorders, 36348449.

  • Rycyk-Bojarzyńska A, Kasztelan-Szczerbińska B, & Cichoż-Lach H. (2024). Into the dark of the black oesophagus. Annals of agricultural and environmental medicine : AAEM, 39344738.

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