Mixing baking soda with lemon water is a time-honored home remedy often used to support digestion, ease stomach discomfort, and help maintain balanced pH levels in the body.
While this combination can offer several health benefits, it’s important to use it correctly—paying close attention to how it’s prepared, how much you take, and when you take it to avoid unwanted side effects.
What You’ll Need
- 1 glass (200–250 ml) of room-temperature or slightly warm mineral or purified water
- Juice from half of a fresh lemon
- ¼ teaspoon (about 1 gram) of baking soda
How to Make It
Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the water. Add the baking soda and stir well until it’s fully dissolved. For best results, drink it right away—preferably first thing in the morning on an empty stomach or at least a few hours after eating.
How Much to Take and When
One glass per day is enough for most healthy adults. It’s best to use this remedy for no more than two weeks in a row. If you occasionally get heartburn after a heavy meal, it’s okay to take a single dose as needed. However, don’t exceed one serving per day, and avoid making it a daily habit without checking with your doctor first.
Things to Keep in Mind
This drink isn’t recommended for people with high blood pressure, kidney conditions, or those following a low-sodium diet. Since baking soda is high in sodium, regular use over time could upset the body’s natural acid-alkaline balance. If you’re on medication—especially for blood pressure, fluid retention, or stomach acid—talk to your healthcare provider before trying this remedy.
Potential Benefits
When used in moderation and prepared properly, lemon water with baking soda may help to:
- Relieve heartburn and acid reflux
- Improve digestion and reduce bloating
- Support a balanced internal pH
- Gently cleanse the stomach when taken on an empty stomach
- Provide a fresh and invigorating way to start the day
A Simpler Option
If your main goal is to improve digestion, warm lemon water without baking soda can also be effective. It’s a gentler alternative with fewer risks but still offers digestive benefits when taken regularly.
When used responsibly, this simple, low-cost drink can be a helpful addition to a healthy lifestyle—just remember to listen to your body and seek medical advice if you’re unsure whether it’s right for you.
