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Dr Gérald Kierzek (Medical Director of Doctissimo)
Sodium bicarbonate, also called baking soda, is a well-known product. But did you know that it can be used in different ways to relieve minor ailments? Here’s everything you can do with bicarbonate, according to Dr. Gérald Kierzek, emergency physician and medical director of Doctissimo.
Food grade sodium bicarbonate, not to be confused with baking soda (household), is a product that you probably have in your kitchen. But beyond this use, did you know that food grade bicarbonate can also be used to treat minor ailments? Here are some, according to Dr. Gérald Kierzek, emergency physician and medical director of Doctissimo.
On the digestive level
Baking soda can “help to restore digestive balance in case of difficulty digesting after a meal” explains the doctor. “It can also relieve the heartburn and acid reflux“. To do this, Gérald Kierzek recommends mixing a teaspoon in a glass of water before drinking it. And if you have digestive problems, know that bicarbonate can make it easier if you add it to the cooking water for your food.
In terms of skin and hygiene
Bicarbonate “cleanses, gently exfoliates, deodorizes and maintains a balanced pH” reminds our expert. In this summer period, it also helps to soothe sunburn and superficial burns. “To do this, make a paste by diluting a small amount of bicarbonate with water.” explains Gérald Kierzek. Then apply generously to areas of skin reddened by the sun.
The same paste, diluted, also allows “relieve itching from insect bites or stings“. Bicarbonate of soda can also limit eczema, “by adding 4-5 tablespoons to your bath” advises the doctor. Finally, bicarbonate of soda helps to “effectively treat athlete’s foot, blisters and foot fungus by soaking them for 15 minutes in warm water containing it.”
On the oral level
Dr. Gérald Kierzek continues on the other benefits of sodium bicarbonate. “It freshens breath and fights plaque and relieves sore throats by gargling with a teaspoon in a glass of warm water.”
Are you prone to canker sores? Baking soda “relieves and accelerates the healing of canker sores as a mouthwash or by applying it directly” the doctor further reveals. And if necessary, he can “replace the toothpaste by sprinkling the wet toothbrush.”
What other practical advice does Dr. Gérald Kierzek have?
Now you know the health benefits of sodium bicarbonate. What other advice does Gérald Kierzek have on the subject? The doctor recommends:
- favor quality food grade baking soda, preferably of French origin;
- keep baking soda on hand for easy use;
- rinse well after application, except for the mouth and teeth;
- avoid using it too frequently on teeth (once every 10 days maximum) to avoid damaging the enamel;
- carry out a test before any new application in case of sensitive skin;
- always ask a healthcare professional in case of pathology or prolonged use.
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