Drinking Baking Soda Daily for Stomach Acid: Helpful Habit or Hidden Risk?

Doctors generally agree:

  • Baking soda should be used occasionally, not daily
  • It should not be used long-term for chronic acid reflux
  • Persistent heartburn needs medical evaluation, not just symptom masking

Chronic acid reflux can be a sign of:

  • GERD
  • Hiatal hernia
  • H. pylori infection
  • Medication side effects

Safer Alternatives for Long-Term Relief

Instead of daily baking soda, doctors often recommend:

✔ Lifestyle Changes

  • Smaller meals
  • Avoid eating late at night
  • Reduce fatty, spicy, or acidic foods
  • Elevate the head while sleeping

✔ Medical Options

  • Antacids (used properly)
  • H2 blockers or PPIs (only under medical advice)
  • Evaluation by a healthcare professional

When to Be Especially Careful

Daily baking soda use is particularly risky if the person:

  • Has high blood pressure
  • Has kidney disease
  • Takes heart or blood pressure medication
  • Is elderly
  • Is on a low-sodium diet

Bottom Line

Your concern is justified.

👉 A teaspoon of baking soda every day is excessive and potentially harmful, especially over the long term. While it may calm symptoms temporarily, it does not treat the underlying cause and can create new health problems.

Encouraging your mom to speak with a doctor about ongoing stomach acid is the safest and smartest next step.

🩺 Natural doesn’t always mean harmless—especially when used daily.

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