Here’s Why Some People Add Baking Soda to Their Coffee

There are seemingly endless ways to enjoy coffee. There are purists who drink black, and aficionados who add milk and/or sugar. But that’s only the tip of the coffee culture iceberg. Cafe menus often include flavors such as caramel, vanilla, hazelnut, Irish cream, or maple syrup. At home, people may add salt, coconut oil, butter, honey, protein powder and more. But just when you think you’ve seen it all, TikTokers started adding baking soda to their morning cup of coffee.

Benefits of Adding Baking Soda to Coffee

Coffee is very popular, but some people cannot participate in the craze. “It can speed up digestion by stimulating the production of stomach acid, having a laxative-like effect that can result in upset stomach or diarrhea if you have a sensitive stomach,” says Maddie Pasquariello, MS, RDN, to Skimm.” In addition, too much coffee can cause inflammation and damage to the lining of the colon. “This isn’t something most of us should worry about, of course, but if you have Crohn’s disease, IBS, or ulcerative colitis, it’s worth talking to your doctor or dietitian about what kind of coffee and how much is right for you.”

There is a clear reason why some intestines are more affected by coffee: they are acidic. “Coffee contains malic acid, citric acid, and acetic acid (among others), and these compounds are released from the beans when you roast them,” said Pasquariello.This results in high levels of stomach acid and can lead to an upset stomach and symptoms of acid reflux, such as chest pain and nausea.”

Add baking soda, also called sodium bicarbonate, which is alkaline. When added to coffee, it can balance pH levels. “Coffee is mildly acidic and has a pH of around five, which can contribute to nausea and stomach discomfort in those who are sensitive to it,” said Pasquariello. “Because baking soda is alkaline with a pH of eight, it can help bring the overall pH of your coffee to a neutral level. [of seven]and to help reduce stomach acid in general.” For this reason, baking soda is sometimes used as a temporary acid reflux remedy. A dosage usually involves about 1/2 teaspoon dissolved in a 4 ounce glass of water. But for coffee, many recommend only a few things.

Does Baking Soda Make Coffee Taste Bad?

Anyone who has tried a baking soda-in-water solution can attest that it tastes bad. Even the slightest breath can tell you that. Fortunately, the taste disappears in the morning. People even report an improved coffee taste, even without the addition of milk and sugar. It’s fitting that since sodium bicarbonate reduces acid that irritates the gut, it also reduces bad-tasting acid. For those who hate the ambiguity of “pinch,” Pasquariello recommends starting with a small amount of baking soda, even less than a quarter teaspoon. “If you’re making more than a few cups, you might consider adding a few teaspoons, or even a teaspoon, of baking soda to a full pot of coffee,” he explains. Baking soda can be a nice touch to coffee, which is naturally acidic, like light roast or cheap beans, Chowhound suggests. The addition of the powder won’t completely eliminate the acidity, after all, that’s a different part of the coffee’s flavor profile, but it can help make the drink especially sharp.

How Much Baking Soda Is Too Much?

In general, it’s best to err on the side of less baking soda. Not just because of the delicious coffee, but because of the digestive system. Healthline emphasizes that 1/2 teaspoon in 4 ounces of water is a temporary solution for acid reflux. For one, there is only limited research on its effectiveness. Additionally, acid reflux can be an indication of a disease such as gastroesophageal reflux disease. So if it happens again for more than two weeks, talk to a doctor. Remember, long-term excessive use of baking soda (7 doses in one day, or 3 if you are 60+) can lead to negative effects, including increased stomach acid and cardiac arrest. Therefore, Poison Control does not recommend baking soda home remedies and recommends taking Tums for acid reflux and heartburn. Talk to your doctor before adding baking soda to coffee if you are pregnant, drink alcohol, on a low-sodium diet, have underlying health conditions, or are taking medications such as NSAIDS, antibiotics, or drugs for digestive disorders.

Baking Soda For Weight Loss?

Despite what social media trends may say, there is no research to support the idea that baking soda aids weight loss. The body naturally regulates its acid and alkali levels, regardless of what a person eats. People who swear by this method may lose weight due to consuming more fluids, which has been scientifically proven to work. And if people try to lose weight by adding sodium bicarbonate to coffee, there is no need. A 2018 meta-analysis shows that caffeine can help with weight loss because it suppresses appetite and can improve exercise performance. Beware of excess coffee drinks“dessert in a cup“There’s a real cup of joe.” You don’t have to drink it black; enjoy a few teaspoons of sugar with whole or half-and-half milk, recommends GoodRX. And of course, baking soda is totally optional.

Read more: 10 Amazing Health Benefits of Baking Soda You Should Know