The combination of baking soda and lemon juice has several health benefits, including the possible abilities to detoxify the body, balance pH levels, and improve digestion. It may also help in boosting the immune system, promoting heart health, protecting the skin, healing the liver, and preventing chronic disease.
Countless health remedies have gained popularity in recent years, but the use of baking soda and lemon dates back decades in natural health circles. On their own, these two substances have plenty of healthy effects, but when combined, they can have an even more impressive impact on your overall health.
To begin with, freshly squeezed lemon juice (Citrus limon) is high in vitamin C and antioxidants that are closely linked to the immune system and diuretic effects on the body. Lemons contain high concentrations of minerals and vitamins, making this juice, despite the tart taste, extremely popular in cooking and alternative health remedies. [1]
On the other hand, baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is technically considered a medicine, despite its many culinary applications. The alkalizing effect of baking soda is well known, which is why people may use it in a variety of treatments for acidic conditions such as digestive issues, heartburn, and to reduce the risk of acidosis. Baking soda can help to alkalize the body and bring its pH back to homeostasis.
However, that being said, it is important to speak to your doctor or a medical professional before adding baking soda to your health regimen. It can interact with other medications and may not be recommended for all.
Baking soda and lemon juice have been widely used in teeth whitening. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Benefits of Baking Soda and Lemon Juice
The benefits of drinking baking soda and lemon juice may include better metabolic function, more balanced pH levels, a healthier gut, a lower risk of chronic disease, improved heart health, and a stronger immune system, among others things. Let us take a detailed look at them below.
Might Balance pH Levels
People often overlook the importance of reducing acid levels in the body, but maintaining a balanced pH is crucial to overall health. Sodium bicarbonate is known as an alkalizing agent that may lower acid levels. This, in turn, offers the possibility of reduced heartburn and indigestion, helping to maintain the alkaline level of the body. This is confirmed in a study conducted by Dr. Beverley Booth, University of Virginia, US. Also, the citric acid in lemons has an alkalizing effect once it is digested! [2]
May Help In Skin Care
As per a study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, lemon juice is a high antioxidant beverage. The high amounts of antioxidants and citric acid may reduce oxidative stress and prevent the negative effects of free radicals in the body. This is particularly good for the skin as it may slow the signs of aging, reduce the appearance of sunspots and wrinkles, and give your skin a healthy glow. Lemon juice and baking soda also can help in reducing acne scars. [3] [4]
Might Consist Of Stomach Cleansing Properties
Lemon juice has long been known as a diuretic substance and may stimulate the body to urinate, thus expelling excess toxins, salts, fats, and water. This is a very good news for the kidneys, as it may reduce stress and pressure on those organs helping the body maintain low level of toxicity. Furthermore, a study cited in the BMC Urology journal suggests that lemon juice might offer protection activity against urolithiasis, which is the formation of hard, stone-like substances in the bladder and urinary tract. [5] [6]
Can Help In Teeth Whitening
As per a study published in the Journal of American Dental Association, baking soda based toothpastes are both effective and safe when used for teeth whitening. However, it is important to note that sometimes the abrasive nature of lemon can be harmful to the teeth as it eats away on the tooth enamel. It may initially reduce staining of the teeth, and lower acidity levels in the mouth, but there are safer ways than using this decoction as a toothpaste. [7] [8]
Many proponents of baking soda and lemon juice for teeth whitening claim that the harmful effects of lemon get balanced out by the high pH levels of baking soda, thereby making it safe for use. Further research is required to verify the claim.
May Improve Digestion
The combination of baking soda and lemon juice acts as a wonderful antacid and is known to quickly reduce the symptoms of indigestion, excess flatulence, bloating, cramping, and heartburn. By preventing inflammation in the gut, which is a critical element of the immune system, lemon juice and baking soda may significantly boost the health of your gut. A one-year-long study by the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, showed that for patients with mild acidosis suffering from chronic kidney diseases (CKD), the consumption of sodium bicarbonate improves lower extremity muscle strength. [9] [10]
Can Potentially Improve Heart Health
Research has shown that drinking water mixed with baking soda may help regulate levels of “bad” cholesterol, and improve levels of HDL cholesterol. It is important to note that there is also conflicting evidence on the same where baking soda has been unhealthy for the heart. Further research into the beneficial effects of baking soda and lemon juice for the heart is still required. [11] [12]
For best effects, be sure to drink this on an empty stomach; in the morning so you can enjoy its digestive effects all day!
Can Help In Weight Loss
There is no direct link between using baking soda and lemon juice with weight loss, but there is evidence that baking soda may provide more energy and endurance during workouts. This increased energy and daily activity then might boost metabolism even during periods of rest between workouts. Although the weight loss would be a secondary effect, it is still possible to aid your weight loss efforts with this decoction.
Baking Soda & Lemon Juice Detox Drink
You can make a baking soda and lemon detox drink by adding a teaspoon of baking soda and lemon juice from half a lemon to a glass of mineral water. For best effects, be sure to drink this on an empty stomach in the morning so you can enjoy its digestive effects all day! Try not to drink this drink close to a meal as it won’t work as quickly on the body, and thereby, not as effective.
Word of Caution: If you are a heart patient or suffer from any chronic conditions, pregnant, or breastfeeding, it is advised to consult with your doctor or medical professional before consuming it in any form. Furthermore, strict moderation is advised, do not make it a daily habit to have baking soda and lemon juice for digestion. Before trying this natural remedy, it is wise to speak to your doctor or medical professional.
