10 Ingenious Unexpected Uses for Baking Soda

If you don't have an antacid handy in your medicine cabinet, your kitchen cabinet may have a good alternative.

Try it: Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda completely into 1/2 glass water and drink. It will get the job done in the short term, says Dr. London, but it needs to be dosed every four hours and is not great for long-term use.

Why it works: Baking soda is naturally basic and helps neutralize stomach acid.

Keep in mind: You should not use this if you have kidney problems, low calcium or iron, high sodium or liver disease, says Dr. London.