Jill B. (Newcastle, NSW Australia) on 07/02/2009
Better But With Side Effects
any dangers from taking bi carbonate of soda? i have been taking approx 1/2 teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda twice a day for approx 2years without any apparent side effects. Recently I have been a bit constipated, despite drinking approx 2 litres of filtered water a day, and having a small quantity of fruit. Our diet has only small amount protein, no beef, and asian vegies. I have regular colonscopies, all good. I am not on any medication (62yo). At present I have a virus, flu and dr said low blood pressure. Is long term use harmful, could it cause fluid imbalance, hence constipation and low blood pressure, or leach out other necessary salts?
Sandhi (USA) on 09/21/2007
Worked Temporarily
I want to point something about the Baking Soda remedy for increasing the alkalinity of body. Unfortunately, this remedy worked for me in the beginning, as I noticed improved digestion, but then I noticed I came down with a chronic case of Bacterial Vaginosis. A fishy odor coming from the vagina. I have heard, women who are on Birth Control Pill get BV. But I have never used BCPs. Further reading, I found out that Baking Soda, and for that matter most antacids can lead to the depletion of B-vitamins in the body. ( including Folic Acid & B12). And no wonder Folic Acid is recommended as a cure for BV.
I am taking Folic Acid (1 mg) and B-complex now, but the fishy odor is not gone completely! I am really stuck with this odor which I NEVER had before. So could it be, my folic acid levels are depleted and I am unable to get them to a healthy level. As of now, I am suspecting Baking Soda has done this to me. And I am abstaining from using it anymore. I would be interested to hear what other female users have to say about this.