Baking soda or sodium bicarbonate is used for multiple purposes, ranging from cooking to cleaning. Although it is a common ingredient in every household, many women wonder if it is safe to use baking soda during pregnancy. Read this post for further information on the use of baking soda during pregnancy and the safety tips you should follow.
Baking Soda During Pregnancy
Most women experience heartburn when pregnant due to hormonal changes within the body (1). Baking soda is often used as an antacid (2). When used in small amounts, baking soda may not cause problems to the developing baby. However, its sodium content may interfere with the body’s water retention capacity, and you need to be careful. If you intend to take baking soda for heartburn during pregnancy, consider the following points.
Use Of Baking Soda As Antacid
Let’s look into pros and cons of the usage of baking soda as Antacid:
a. Pros:
The best part is that there has been no evidence of any adverse effect of baking soda on babies in the womb (3). However, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before using it when pregnant.
b. Cons:
Sodium bicarbonate or baking soda may cause fluid build up resulting in swollen feet or other problems due to edema (5).
Baking Soda For Cooking
Baking soda, after all, is a popular kitchen ingredient. Even when you are not taking it as a medicine, you may be using it for baking.
It is completely safe to use baking soda for cooking. When mixed with other ingredients, it may not have a harmful impact. Mind the amount that you are using and the frequency of consumption.
If you are baking every day, using good quantities of baking soda, then it may be risky. So, go ahead and bake those cookies!
Baking Soda As Cleaning Agent
During pregnancy, you have to be cautious as to what material you are using to clean your house. Baking soda can be a good option as a surface cleaner and deodorizer because it is natural and does not emit harmful fumes (7).
It is safe to handle. Baking soda will not harm you on coming in contact with skin. It can be used to clean carpets and rugs by sprinkling some powder before vacuuming. A paste of baking soda can effectively clean kitchen and table tops.
The impact of baking soda also depends on how you take it and with what frequency. Consuming it once in a while is fine. Just don’t make it a regular habit. With so many uses, you don’t have to eliminate baking soda from your kitchen when you get pregnant.
