Water With Baking Soda and Lemon: How to Prepare It Safely

A mixture of water, baking soda, and lemon is often promoted online as a remedy for digestion, detoxification, weight loss, or “alkalizing” the body. However, there is no good evidence that this drink burns fat, detoxes the body, or provides special health benefits.

More importantly, baking soda is sodium bicarbonate and shouldn’t be treated like an everyday wellness drink. Large amounts can cause dangerous sodium and acid-base disturbances. (Poison Control)

Simple Lemon Water Recipe

If you’re looking for a refreshing drink, a safer option is to skip the baking soda.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (240 ml) water
• 1–2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• A few ice cubes, optional
• 1 teaspoon honey, optional

Directions

1. Pour the water into a glass.
2. Add the fresh lemon juice.
3. Stir well.
4. Add ice or a small amount of honey if desired.
5. Drink immediately.

What About the Baking Soda?

There isn’t a recommended daily wellness dosage of baking soda that I would suggest for this recipe.

Sodium bicarbonate is used medically as an antacid, but it should be taken according to product directions or a healthcare professional’s advice. It also adds sodium and can interact with medications. (MedlinePlus)

People with high blood pressure, heart failure, kidney disease, or a sodium-restricted diet should be particularly cautious. (MedlinePlus)

Bottom Line

Lemon water is fine as a refreshing drink for most people. Baking soda isn’t necessary. Don’t use a homemade baking-soda drink as a regular weight-loss, detox, or general-health remedy.