pH balance is fundamental to human physiology because nearly every biochemical reaction in the body depends on a stable acid–base environment. Human blood is tightly regulated between approximately 7.35 and 7.45, and even small deviations outside this range can disrupt enzyme activity, oxygen delivery, and cellular metabolism. Enzymes function optimally within specific pH ranges, and shifts toward excessive acidity or alkalinity can reduce their efficiency. pH also influences oxygen transport, electrolyte stability, mitochondrial energy production, and nervous system function. The body maintains this balance through buffering systems involving bicarbonate, carbon dioxide, the lungs, and the kidneys. Without stable pH regulation, normal cellular function cannot be sustained.
Key Properties
Sodium bicarbonate readily dissolves in water. When heated (above approximately 50–100°C) or when it reacts with acids, it decomposes to release carbon dioxide gas (CO₂), water, and sodium carbonate. This reaction is what makes it useful in baking and other applications. It also acts as a buffering agent to help neutralize acids.
Common Uses
Baking – Primary leavening agent in recipes (reacts with acidic ingredients like buttermilk, yogurt, or vinegar to produce CO₂ bubbles that make dough rise).
Household – Natural cleaner, deodorizer (e.g., in refrigerators or on carpets), mild abrasive for scrubbing, and odor neutralizer.
Medical / Health – Antacid to relieve heartburn, acid indigestion, or sour stomach by neutralizing excess stomach acid. Also used medically (under supervision) to treat metabolic acidosis or certain other conditions.
Other – In fire extinguishers (Class B/C types), water treatment, personal care (e.g., toothpaste or bath products), and even some sports supplements for buffering lactic acid.
The Kidneys and Sodium Bicarbonate
There is a clear physiological relationship between kidney function and sodium bicarbonate because the kidneys are central regulators of acid–base balance. The kidneys alone produce approximately 250 grams of bicarbonate per day in the ongoing process of neutralizing acid in the body. They continuously monitor and adjust the acidity, or pH, of the blood.
If the blood becomes too acidic, the kidneys generate and reabsorb bicarbonate to restore balance. If the blood becomes too alkaline, the kidneys excrete bicarbonate into the urine to maintain equilibrium. Acid–base balance is therefore the result of two coordinated processes: the removal of bicarbonate following hydrogen ion production from metabolism, and the synthesis of “new” bicarbonate by the kidneys to replace what is used buffering acids.
Research studies have examined sodium bicarbonate supplementation in individuals with reduced kidney function who struggle to excrete acid effectively. In some studies, doses of 650 mg taken two to three times per day were associated with slowing progression toward dialysis in certain patients. A 650 mg dose is approximately equivalent to 1/8 teaspoon of baking soda dissolved in water.
The Role of the Pancreas
The pancreas also plays a significant role in pH regulation within the digestive system. In addition to producing insulin for blood glucose control and digestive enzymes for nutrient breakdown, the pancreas secretes bicarbonate-rich fluid into the small intestine. This bicarbonate neutralizes stomach acid as it enters the duodenum, creating the appropriate alkaline environment for digestive enzymes to function effectively.
Without adequate bicarbonate secretion from the pancreas, digestive enzymes cannot operate efficiently, which may impair nutrient absorption and place stress on metabolic processes. The pancreas therefore links digestion, glucose regulation, and acid–base chemistry. Its bicarbonate production supports local pH balance in the gut, complementing the systemic buffering functions carried out by the kidneys and lungs.
Why the Body Becomes More Acidic
The body naturally produces acids as a result of normal metabolism. When cells generate energy, carbon dioxide is produced and converted into carbonic acid in the bloodstream. The breakdown of proteins and certain nutrients also produces acids such as sulfuric and phosphoric acid. These are normal physiological processes.
Dietary patterns can influence acid load. Diets higher in animal proteins and lower in fruits and vegetables tend to produce a greater net acid load compared to plant-rich diets. Over time, the kidneys must excrete this acid to maintain balance.
Reduced kidney function can impair acid excretion, leading to a gradual accumulation of acid in the body. Severe infections, uncontrolled diabetes, respiratory disorders, and certain medications can also disrupt acid–base balance.
It is important to distinguish between systemic blood pH, which is tightly regulated, and localized or metabolic acid load, which can vary depending on health status and organ function. When buffering systems are functioning properly, the body maintains stable blood pH despite daily acid production.
How Sodium Bicarbonate Can Assist in Correcting Imbalance
Sodium bicarbonate can assist in correcting acid–base imbalance by increasing the availability of bicarbonate ions (HCO₃⁻), which are a primary component of the body’s buffering system. When excess hydrogen ions (acid) accumulate, bicarbonate binds to them, forming carbonic acid, which is then converted into carbon dioxide and water. The carbon dioxide is exhaled through the lungs, helping remove acid from the body.
In individuals with impaired kidney function, the kidneys may struggle to produce or retain sufficient bicarbonate to neutralize daily acid production. Supplemental sodium bicarbonate can help restore circulating bicarbonate levels, reducing the acid burden and supporting the body’s natural buffering mechanisms.
In clinical settings, sodium bicarbonate is used to treat metabolic acidosis, a condition in which blood becomes too acidic due to kidney failure, severe infection, uncontrolled diabetes, or toxin exposure. By raising serum bicarbonate levels, it helps return blood pH toward the normal range.
In less severe situations involving increased dietary acid load or reduced buffering capacity, bicarbonate supplementation has been studied as a way to support acid neutralization and reduce strain on the kidneys.
The effect is not to override the body’s regulatory systems, but to supply additional buffering capacity when endogenous production or retention is insufficient.
In less severe situations involving increased dietary acid load or reduced buffering capacity, bicarbonate supplementation has been studied as a way to support acid neutralization and reduce strain on the kidneys.
Research studies have examined sodium bicarbonate supplementation in individuals with reduced kidney function who struggle to excrete acid effectively. In some studies, doses of 650 mg taken two to three times per day were associated with slowing progression toward dialysis in certain patients. A 650 mg dose is approximately equivalent to 1/8 teaspoon of baking soda dissolved in water.
How Sodium Bicarbonate Can Assist in Correcting Imbalance
Sodium bicarbonate can assist in correcting acid–base imbalance by increasing the availability of bicarbonate ions (HCO₃⁻), which are a primary component of the body’s buffering system. When excess hydrogen ions (acid) accumulate, bicarbonate binds to them, forming carbonic acid, which is then converted into carbon dioxide and water. The carbon dioxide is exhaled through the lungs, helping remove acid from the body.
Magnesium, Electrolytes, and Buffering Systems
Magnesium is frequently discussed alongside bicarbonate because of the interconnectedness of mineral balance, mitochondrial function, and cellular stability.
The buffering system is not an isolated chemical reaction, but part of a broader mineral and metabolic ecology involving:
Magnesium
Potassium
Calcium
Bicarbonate
Carbon dioxide regulation
This systems-based perspective aligns with holistic physiology, though some applications extend beyond established clinical guidelines.
As KING more Questions on Sodium Bicarbonate
How to administer Sodium Bicarbonate?
Sodium Bicarbonate is one of the most flexible medicinals in terms of methods and modes of administration. It can be injected in emergency room situations, taken orally, nebulized, used transdermally as a lotion or paste, put in enemas and in larger quantities in therapeutic baths. (preferably with magnesium)
Are there any side effects of sodium bicarbonate ?
Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) is generally well tolerated. However, high doses may cause headache, nausea or irritability. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: muscle weakness, slow reflexes and confusion, swelling of the feet or ankles, black tar-like stools, coffee-ground vomit. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Adverse reactions to the administration of sodium bicarbonate can include metabolic alkalosis, edema due to sodium overload, congestive heart failure, hyperosmolar syndrome, hypervolemic hypernatremia, and hypertension due to increased sodium.
What is the best type of sodium bicarbonate ?
According to Dr Mark Sircus, Bob’s Red Mill, Arm and Hammers (both aluminum free), and good combination formulas like pH Adjust, which includes potassium bicarbonate and magnesium. I recently purchased an organic version from my local health food shop, not the supermarket brand.
Can I take it every day in order to maintain my health ?
Dr Mark Sircus suggests not to use the maximum dosage for more than 2 weeks. Other Information: Each 1/2 teaspoon contains 616 mg sodium. Many ask what a maintenance dosage would be or a cancer prevention dosage. Again, this would vary widely but one teaspoon split into two doses could be a standard but one still has to measure one’s pH for guidance.
Long term use of sodium bicarbonate is not recommended or necessary in every case and you must understand the warnings about doing this. All of this information is included in the book Sodium Bicarbonate and in Treatment Essentials.
A break from using sodium bicarbonate should also be taken every 2 weeks and the necessary lifestyle and dietary changes should be made to remain more alkaline without needing so much bicarbonate.
Dr Mark Sircus recommended dose ?
The best guidance for dosages for sodium bicarbonate is provided by one’s own urinary and salivary pH, which one takes in the morning or several times during the day when doing a heavy course of dosages for cancer or other serious diseases.
The recommendation is 1/4 to ½ teaspoon per 8 oz. glass with lemon (to balance the sodium with potassium) and no more than 1 1/2 to 2 teaspoons per 24 hour period.
Please observe the maximum doses of 7 half teaspoons/day if under age 60 and of 3 half tsp/day if over age 60.
Sodium bicarbonate should be taken 1-2 hours before or after a meal so as not to interfere with the hydrochloric acid needed for digestion. Sodium bicarbonate will temporarily neutralize hydrochloric acid. So if you are taking it for general maintenance take it early am or before bedtime. This should not affect the mealtime production of hydrochloric acid.
How can I measure my pH and what is the pH good for health?
Purchase some simple and inexpensive pH strips and see for yourself how acid you are and before you begin with pH balancing protocols. Bring yourself back up to a healthy pH using sodium bicarbonate and magnesium chloride and see how much better you feel.
The first step with regards to pH protocols and using baking soda is to find out for sure if your body is acidic or not. If your body is acidic then follow the guidelines for restoring as near to 7.4 PH as you can.
Why caffeine drinks are related to the pH ? how it affects my body ?
Coffee tends to push people into acid conditions. It also tends to dehydrate the body.
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Magnesium, Electrolytes, and Buffering Systems
Magnesium is frequently discussed alongside bicarbonate because of the interconnectedness of mineral balance, mitochondrial function, and cellular stability.
The buffering system is not an isolated chemical reaction, but part of a broader mineral and metabolic ecology involving:
Magnesium
Potassium
Calcium
Bicarbonate
Carbon dioxide regulation
This systems-based perspective aligns with holistic physiology, though some applications extend beyond established clinical guidelines.
Sodium Bicarbonate: Nature’s Unique First Aid Remedy presents sodium bicarbonate as a foundational substance in human physiology, emphasizing its role in acid–base balance, buffering systems, and metabolic stability. The book explores the relationships between bicarbonate, kidney function, pancreatic activity, emergency medicine applications, and tumor acidity, while framing mineral balance and pH regulation as central themes in health. It combines discussion of established medical uses with broader interpretations of how buffering capacity may influence chronic conditions.
Sodium Bicarbonate and Bio-Electric Therapy
Because sodium bicarbonate functions as a buffering agent, supporting acid–base balance and electrolyte stability, it may complement therapies that work with the body’s natural electrical and circulatory systems. A balanced internal environment supports cellular communication, nerve conduction, and mitochondrial energy production – all of which are influenced by pH and mineral balance.
Prior to a Bio-Electric Therapy session, maintaining hydration and supporting buffering capacity may assist the body’s responsiveness to gentle electrical stimulation. When tissues are well hydrated and mineral balance is stable, electrical conductivity and cellular signaling are more efficient. This creates a more receptive physiological environment for therapies that aim to support circulation, fascia flow, nervous system regulation, and energetic balance.
If you are exploring pH balance, mineral support, or recovery from metabolic stress, a Bio-Electric Therapy session may provide an additional layer of support by working directly with the body’s bioelectrical communication systems. Booking a session allows you to assess how your body responds in real time, supporting integration of both chemical and electrical aspects of physiology.
Call Dawn on 0421 332 290 or visit www.dawnkelly.com.au
References
By Dawn Kelly, Founder of the Inner Compass – Guiding you to align with the highest expression of your true self.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Sodium bicarbonate and any health-related practices discussed should not be used as a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, treatment, or guidance. Always consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before beginning any supplementation or therapy, particularly if you have a medical condition, are taking medication, or have kidney, heart, or metabolic disorders. Individual responses may vary.
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