Baking soda can help with occasional heartburn by neutralizing stomach acid. Dissolve a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of cold water and drink slowly.
Five Things Baking Soda Can Do Beyond Baking
Practically every household has a box or two of baking soda, usually tucked in the back of the fridge to soak up odors or in the pantry for the next batch of cookies. But baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, has several benefits that go well beyond baking, from reducing heartburn to soothing itchy skin.
Reduce Heartburn
Fight Plaque
Brushing with baking soda can help protect your teeth from damaging plaque — its mild antibacterial action helps eliminate germs associated with plaque, which also helps keep the glossy surface of tooth enamel protected (and your teeth white).
Clean Your Food
Baking soda is a potent cleanser for produce. Studies show that soaking fruits and vegetables in a mix of baking soda and water for 15 minutes can remove almost all surface pesticides.
Soothe a Sunburn
If you spent too long in the sun or skipped a spot with sunscreen, a baking soda bath can help reduce the pain. Add 1 to 2 cups of baking soda to a lukewarm bath.
Soothe Eczema
Mix 1/4 cup of baking soda into lukewarm water and soak for up to 15 minutes, then, while skin is still damp, apply any prescription creams and a creamy moisturizer to seal it in.
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