That headline is highly misleading. There is no evidence that baking soda can make 13 health problems “disappear,” especially with one simple trick.
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) does have a few legitimate medical and household uses, but it is not a cure-all.
What baking soda can actually do
- Relieve occasional heartburn: It can neutralize stomach acid for short-term relief. However, it is not intended for frequent or long-term use without medical advice.
- Household cleaning: It’s useful for cleaning surfaces and reducing odors.
- Dental care: It can help remove some surface stains when used in toothpaste, but it does not replace regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste or professional dental care.
Why older adults should be cautious
Baking soda contains a large amount of sodium. Taking it regularly or in large amounts can be risky, particularly for people with:
- hypertension
- heart failure
- kidney disease
Excessive use may lead to:
- High sodium levels
- Fluid retention
- High blood pressure
- Changes in the body’s acid-base balance (metabolic alkalosis)
What it does not do
There is no good scientific evidence that baking soda can:
- Cure arthritis
- Treat diabetes
- Clean the liver or kidneys
- Prevent cancer
- Reverse aging
- Eliminate multiple chronic diseases
Bottom line
Baking soda has a few specific, limited uses, but claims that it can cure or dramatically improve numerous health conditions are not supported by scientific evidence. If you’re considering using it for a medical purpose—especially if you’re an older adult or have chronic health conditions—it’s best to discuss it with your healthcare provider first.
