Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is one of the most widely recognized household substances that has also drawn serious scientific interest for a range of health applications. Research suggests it may help temporarily neutralize stomach acid, which is why it has long been used as a home remedy for occasional heartburn, and studies indicate it may support kidney health by helping manage bicarbonate levels in people with certain kidney conditions. In the realm of exercise science, sodium bicarbonate has been studied as an ergogenic aid, with evidence pointing to modest improvements in high-intensity athletic performance by buffering lactic acid buildup. It has also been explored for oral health benefits, particularly in reducing plaque acidity, and is commonly applied topically as a folk remedy to soothe minor insect bites and skin irritation.
Compare this supplementResearch suggests that sodium bicarbonate supplementation does not appear to meaningfully improve exercise performanc...
View studies →Research suggests that sodium bicarbonate, commonly known as baking soda, has been explored in at least one small ran...
View studies →These are commonly referenced dosage ranges for this supplement. They are not medical recommendations. Always consult a healthcare provider before supplementing.
| Form | Dose range | Frequency | Studied for | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Powder | 1–2 g | As needed | Acid reflux and heartburn relief | Traditional use and clinical guidance; dissolved in water |
| Powder | 2–4 g | As needed | Dental and oral health, including plaque reduction and whitening | Based on clinical trials using baking soda-containing toothpaste and oral rinse studies |
| Powder | 0.2–0.3 g/kg | As needed | Exercise performance and athletic endurance | Common in clinical trials on buffering capacity and high-intensity exercise |
| Powder | 500–1,000 mg | Three times daily | Kidney health and metabolic acidosis management in CKD | Based on RCTs examining bicarbonate supplementation in chronic kidney disease |
| Powder | 1–3 g | Twice daily | Urinary tract health and urine alkalinization | Common in clinical studies on UTI symptom relief and urine pH adjustment |
| Topical | — | As needed | Insect bite relief and skin irritation | Traditional use; paste applied directly to affected area |