How To Use Baking Soda For Constipation Relief?

July 11, 2023 by Pranay David

Constipation is a commonly faced issue worldwide. In fact, according to a survey conducted by global marketing research agency 14% urban population is a victim of chronic constipation. Constipation may be caused due to regular intake of processed food, alcohol, smoking, irregular eating or overeating, less consumption of water, stress, etc. Although not a serious disease, it can cause lot of discomfort. Baking soda has multiple benefits and can be useful in treatment of skin problems, hair problems, teeth problems, body odor, etc. Let us read to know how effective is baking soda for constipation relief.(1)

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Does Baking Soda Help to Relieve Constipation?

Constipation occurs as a result of slow movement of waste in the bowel. As a result stool becomes hard to pass. Low fiber diet, insufficient water intake, lack of physical activity, controlling the urge to use bathroom, change in routine. Other reasons include pregnancy, thyroid, irritable bowel syndrome, diabetes, colon cancer, medicines, etc.(2)

Baking soda is another name for sodium bicarbonate. It is easily found in every kitchen shelf. Baking soda possesses antibacterial, anti fungal, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Baking soda helps in relieving bloating, stomach gas, and pain in the digestive tract.
It helps to re – alkalize the stomach.
It draws fluid into the digestive system
It acts as a laxative
It helps to cleanse the colon.

How to Use Baking Soda for Constipation Relief

Baking soda is an easily available substance in any household. It is a natural remedy and unlike other counter top drugs it doesn’t have side effects.

1. Baking Soda and Warm Water for Constipation

This is to be followed in the morning. Both warm water and baking soda ensures that the problem of constipation is reduced.(3)

You’ll need:

1 teaspoon of baking soda
1/4^th cup of warm water

Preparation time: 3 minutes.

How to do:

Mix a teaspoon baking soda to 1/4^th cup warm water.
Stir and add a pinch of salt.
Drink this on empty stomach to break down the food and smooth passage of stool.
Drink sufficient water along with this remedy.

Best time to Drink: On an empty stomach.

[ Read: How to Use Castor Oil for Constipation Relief ]

2. Apple Cider Vinegar and Baking Soda for Constipation

It may taste a bit strange given the vinegar but its consumption reduces constipation.(4)

Ingredients:

1 teaspoon of baking soda
2 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar

Preparation time: 3 minutes.

Process:

Mix 1 teaspoon baking soda with 2 tablespoon apple cider vinegar.
This mixture should be consumed 1-2 times a day.
Alternatively, mix ½ teaspoon baking soda and 2 tablespoon apple cider vinegar with a glass of water.
Consume regularly.

Repetitions: Follow this remedy once in a for few days.

[ Read: How to Take Apple Cider Vinegar for Constipation ]

3. Baking Soda and Lemon Juice for Constipation

Ingredients:

1 teaspoon of baking soda
half a lemon juice

Preparation time: 4 minutes.

Process:

Mix one teaspoon baking soda and half a lemon juice.
Consume this regularly.

Repetitions: Consume this mixture daily once in a day till you get relief from constipation problem.(5)

[ Read: How Does Banana Help in Constipation ]

4. Baking Soda Bath for Constipation

Baking soda bath is a passive way of reducing constipation. It soothes the pain caused by constipation.

You’ll need:

3 tablespoon baking soda
water

Preparation time: 5 minutes.

How to do:

Fill a tub with warm water and add 3 tablespoon baking soda in it.
Soak for 15-20 minutes and dry off.
According to a report from El Camino Hospital, ‘soaking in a baking soda bath can help to reduce rectal pain caused due to constipation.‘

Repetitions: Daily once.

Tips and Precautions

Though baking soda is beneficial for health and reduces the pain and discomfort of constipation. However, it has some of the following side effects.

Excess intake of baking soda can result in constipation.
High sodium content in baking soda can be harmful for people with high blood pressure, kidney or heart disease.
Certain other side effects of baking soda are vomiting, diarrhea, convulsions, irritability, abdominal pain etc.

It is advisable to avoid calcium rich food or calcium supplements while in taking baking soda. Result may vary hence it is advisable to see the doctor in case the problem persists.

Scientific Evidence: