Sodium bicarbonate offers quick heartburn relief but requires caution

Sodium bicarbonate is a common home remedy used to provide rapid relief from heartburn by neutralizing stomach acid. While it can alleviate burning sensations in the chest or throat within minutes, experts warn that it is only a temporary solution and does not address the underlying cause of acid reflux.

Frequent use of sodium bicarbonate is discouraged due to its high sodium content. For example, half a teaspoon contains approximately 600 milligrams of sodium, which is about one-quarter of the recommended daily intake. This high concentration can lead to increased blood pressure and may be unsafe for individuals with heart or kidney disease, or those on salt-restricted diets. Other potential side effects include electrolyte imbalances, bloating, gas, and burping. Persistent heartburn may indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which requires medical consultation rather than repeated use of home remedies.