Mixing vinegar and baking soda is a popular DIY remedy for various purposes. While some people use this combination for cleaning, others use it for cooking or baking. However, drinking vinegar and baking soda can also have surprising effects on your health.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the science behind this mixture and explore its potential benefits and risks.
6 Health Benefits of Baking Soda & Apple Cider Vinegar Tonic Drink
The Science Behind Vinegar and Baking Soda:
Vinegar and baking soda are two of the most common household items that have been used for centuries for various purposes. Vinegar has around 5-8% acetic acid and baking soda reacts with acids to create carbon dioxide gas.
When vinegar and baking soda are mixed together, a chemical reaction occurs that produces carbon dioxide gas, water, and sodium acetate. This reaction is exothermic, which means it releases heat.
Health Benefits of Drinking Vinegar and Baking Soda:
Although some people claim that drinking vinegar and baking soda can have health benefits, there is no scientific evidence to support this. Here are some of the potential benefits of consuming this mixture:
- Alkalizing effect: Baking soda is a base, which means it can neutralize acids in the body and help maintain a more alkaline pH. Some people believe that this can help improve digestion, boost energy levels, and reduce inflammation.
- Digestive aid: Vinegar contains acetic acid, which can help stimulate digestive enzymes and promote the breakdown of food in the stomach. Some people also claim that drinking vinegar and baking soda can help relieve acid reflux symptoms.
- Blood sugar control: Vinegar has been shown to have a blood sugar-lowering effect in some studies. Some people believe that consuming vinegar and baking soda can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Risks of Drinking Vinegar and Baking Soda:
While drinking vinegar and baking soda may have potential health benefits, it can also have risks. Here are some of the potential risks of consuming this mixture:
- Tooth enamel erosion: Vinegar is highly acidic, which means it can erode tooth enamel and lead to tooth decay. Drinking vinegar and baking soda can also increase the risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Stomach upset: Consuming too much vinegar and baking soda can cause stomach upset, including nausea, bloating, and diarrhea. This is because the mixture can disrupt the natural pH balance of the stomach and cause irritation.
- Interference with medications: Vinegar and baking soda can interfere with certain medications, including diuretics, insulin, and digoxin. If you’re taking any medications, it’s important to talk to your doctor before consuming this mixture.
How to Drink Vinegar and Baking Soda:
If you decide to try drinking vinegar and baking soda, it’s important to do so in moderation and with caution. Here are some tips on how to consume this mixture safely:
- Dilute the vinegar: Vinegar is highly acidic, so it’s important to dilute it with water before consuming it. Mix one tablespoon of vinegar with eight ounces of water to make it more palatable.
- Use a straw: Drinking vinegar and baking soda through a straw can help minimize contact with your teeth, which can reduce the risk of tooth enamel erosion.
- Don’t overdo it: Drinking too much vinegar and baking soda can cause stomach upset and other health problems. Limit your consumption to no more than one or two tablespoons of vinegar and one-half teaspoon of baking soda per day.
Alternatives to Drinking Vinegar and Baking Soda:
If you’re looking for ways to improve your health, there are many alternatives to drinking vinegar and baking soda. Here are some ideas:
- Eat a balanced diet: Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help improve your overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help keep you hydrated and support healthy digestion.
- Exercise regularly: Regular exercise can help improve your cardiovascular health, boost your mood, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
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Is It Safe to Drink Baking Soda And Vinegar?
Drinking a mixture of baking soda and vinegar can have potential health benefits, but it should be consumed in moderation and with caution. Diluting the vinegar, using a straw, and limiting consumption can help reduce the risk of adverse effects.
How Much Apple Cider Vinegar And Baking Soda Should I Drink a Day?
A typical suggestion is to consume one to two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar and half a teaspoon of baking soda per day, at most.
| Quantity of Vinegar | Quantity of Baking Soda | Potential Effects on Health |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 tablespoons | 1/2 teaspoon | May help regulate blood sugar, improve digestion, and promote weight loss. |
| Excessive intake | Excessive intake | May cause stomach upset, nausea, diarrhea, and electrolyte imbalances. May also increase the risk of tooth enamel erosion and other health problems. |
Does Vinegar And Baking Soda Make You Lose Weight?
Although some studies have linked drinking vinegar and baking soda to weight loss, additional research is necessary to validate its weight loss benefits. It’s important to consume this mixture in moderation and with caution, as excessive intake can have adverse effects on your health.
What Happens If You Mix Baking Soda And Vinegar Together?
When you mix baking soda and vinegar together, they create a chemical reaction that causes carbon dioxide gas to be released. This is what makes the mixture fizz and bubble. The carbon dioxide gas is actually produced by the vinegar breaking down into water and carbon dioxide molecules.
Conclusion:
While mixing vinegar and baking soda may have some potential health benefits, it’s important to consume this mixture in moderation and with caution. Before attempting any remedy containing excessive amounts of vinegar and baking soda, it’s crucial to consult a doctor since it could be hazardous to your health. If you’re looking for ways to improve your health, consider alternative strategies such as eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and exercising regularly.
Sources:
- A systematic review and meta-analysis: Vinegar consumption on glycaemic control in adults, DOI:Â 10.1111/jan.14255
- Hlebowicz, J., Darwiche, G., Björgell, O., & Almér, L. O. (2007). Effect of apple cider vinegar on delayed gastric emptying in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus: a pilot study. BMC gastroenterology, 7(1), 1-5. https://bmcgastroenterol.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1471-230X-7-46
- Beheshti, Z., Chan, Y. H., Nia, H. S., Hajihosseini, F., Nazari, R., Shaabani, M., & Larijani, B. (2012). Influence of apple cider vinegar on blood lipids. Life Science Journal, 9(4), 2431-2440. http://www.lifesciencesite.com/lsj/life0904/360_10755life0904_2431_2440.pdf
