Constipation can be very uncomfortable, even painful, especially if ignored for a few days. You may suffer from constipation due to regular usage of processed food, smoking, alcohol, irregular or overeating, less water consumption etc. If it goes to the chronic stage, it can cause problems like hemorrhoids and other discomforts.
You can treat constipation with some lifestyle changes, using natural remedies and some OTC medications. Here we are discussing baking soda as a treatment for constipation. You must be aware of the effects of baking soda in skin problems, hair problems and body odours etc. Let’s find out how effective it can be in case of constipation.
Does baking soda relief constipation?
Also known as sodium bicarbonate, baking soda is a very common kitchen product. It is known for its antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties and can help in constipation by:
- Relieving stomach gas, bloating, and pain in the digestive tract.
- Maintaining the acid-base balance inside the stomach.
- Acting as a laxative.
- Drawing necessary fluid into the digestive system.
- Aiding to cleanse the colon.
How to use baking soda for constipation:
There are numerous ways of using baking soda for constipation. Here we are discussing a few very effective methods:
Baking soda with warm water:
Consuming this in the morning can quickly give you the desired results.
You will need:
- 1 tbsp baking soda.
- ¼ cup of warm (not hot) water.
What to do:
- Mix 1 tbsp baking soda with ¼ cup of warm water.
- Stir properly and add a pinch of salt.
- Drink this early in the morning to ensure proper breakdown of food and smooth passage of stool.
- Drink at least a glass of water after having this remedy.
Baking soda with apple cider vinegar:
The mixture may taste a bit different, but it can reduce constipation in a few days.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp baking soda.
- 2 tbsp diluted apple cider vinegar.
The process to follow:
- Mix both baking soda and ACV properly.
- Alternatively, you can add these two ingredients in a glass of water.
- Drink the mixture twice in a day for excellent results.
Baking soda with lemon juice:
Both baking soda and lemon are acidic and can treat almost all types of gastric system problems, including constipation.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp baking soda.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice.
Procedure:
- Mix both baking soda and lemon juice.
- Consume regularly for rapid improvement.
Baking soda bath:
Baking soda bath is a passive treatment for constipation. It also relives the rectal pain caused by prolonged constipation.
You will need:
- 3 tbsp baking soda.
- Enough water for bathing.
What to do:
- Fill your bathtub with warm water and add 3 tbsp baking soda.
- Soak yourself properly for 20-30 minutes and then dry off as usual.
A report from El Camino Hospital says, soaking in warm water with baking soda can soothe the pain caused by constipation.
Tips and precautions while using baking soda for constipation:
Although baking soda is an effective treatment for constipation, there are some precautions you should keep in mind while its usage.
- Excess intake of baking soda can even increase constipation.
- Baking soda is high in sodium and hence can be harmful to people suffering from heart and kidney diseases.
- Some potential side effects of baking soda include vomiting, diarrhoea, irritability, abdominal pain and convulsions etc.
So, that’s all about baking soda as a treatment for constipation. You can surely rely on it if you are having prolonged constipation. But, with some precautions.