Does Baking Soda Improve Men’s Endurance?

Scroll through TikTok or Instagram and you’ll spot short videos promoting the so-called “baking soda trick for men.”

From mixing it in water before workouts to using it as a natural deodorant, the trend has sparked millions of views.

The buzz isn’t just about fitness—claims stretch into endurance, odor control, even performance and ED fixes.

But not every viral hack holds up under scrutiny.

Some baking soda uses are supported by science, while others are exaggerated or flat-out unsafe.

With so much conflicting advice online, it’s easy to get misled.

What Is Baking Soda / Sodium Bicarbonate?

Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is a naturally alkaline compound.

When it comes into contact with acid, it reacts and releases carbon dioxide gas—this is why it makes baked goods rise and creates fizz when mixed with vinegar.

Outside the kitchen, baking soda is widely used as a cleaning agent, deodorizer, and personal care ingredient.

Its ability to neutralize odors and balance acidity makes it a household staple.

Inside the body, things are more complex.

Your blood and tissues already regulate pH through an acid–base balance system controlled by the kidneys and lungs.

While small amounts of sodium bicarbonate can temporarily buffer acidity, the body works continuously to keep its pH in a very tight range.

Popular Claims & Tricks Men Are Trying

Social media is full of “baking soda hacks for guys,” but the claims range from useful to questionable.

Here are the most common ones trending right now:

Baking soda water for sports performance.

Some athletes mix baking soda in water before high-intensity workouts, claiming it delays muscle fatigue and boosts endurance.

Performance and ED fixes.

A handful of viral posts suggest that baking soda balances body pH, improves circulation, and even helps with erectile dysfunction.

These claims get attention but lack solid medical backing.

DIY hygiene and odor control.

Men use baking soda pastes under the arms, in shoes, or as foot soaks to neutralize odor.

Its alkaline nature helps absorb sweat and reduce bacteria-related smells.

Skin care and shaving relief.

Baking soda baths or gentle scrubs are promoted to soothe irritation, exfoliate skin, or calm razor burn after shaving.

Dental health tricks.

From teeth whitening to mouth rinses, baking soda is touted as a natural way to brighten enamel and freshen breath.

What Does the Science Say? Evidence & Limits

Not every baking soda “trick” holds up when you look at the research.

Here’s what current science shows:

• Sports performance: Controlled studies suggest that sodium bicarbonate can act as a buffer against lactic acid buildup. For short bursts of high-intensity exercise, it may help delay muscle fatigue and improve endurance. However, the effect is modest and only useful in specific training contexts.
• Erectile dysfunction or hormone claims: There is no scientific evidence that baking soda improves erections, boosts testosterone, or treats ED. Expert reviews classify these claims as unfounded.
• Odor control and hygiene: Baking soda does neutralize odors and reduce bacteria on the skin or in shoes. It can be effective for managing body odor, but results vary depending on skin type, frequency of use, and concentration.
• Risks and side effects: Drinking baking soda water in large amounts can cause stomach cramps, nausea, and diarrhea. Because it’s high in sodium, overuse also increases the risk of elevated blood pressure, electrolyte imbalance, and kidney strain. Skin overuse may lead to dryness, irritation, or rashes.

How to Use Baking Soda Safely (If You Want to Try These Hacks)

If you’re curious about baking soda hacks, the key is moderation.

Used correctly, it can be helpful—but misuse can cause real problems.

• Drinking baking soda water: For athletic purposes, studies typically test around ½ teaspoon (about 2–3 grams) mixed in water, taken occasionally before high-intensity training. Going beyond that risks stomach distress and excess sodium intake. This is not meant for daily, long-term use.
• Skin and odor care: A small amount mixed with water into a paste works for underarms, feet, or as a mild scrub. Limit use to a few times per week to reduce the chance of irritation or dryness. Always rinse thoroughly.
• Dental use: A light sprinkle on a toothbrush or diluted rinse can freshen breath and remove surface stains. Avoid aggressive scrubbing, since baking soda is mildly abrasive.

Who should be cautious: Men with high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney problems, or those on sodium-restricted diets should not take baking soda internally without medical advice.

Watch for warning signs. If you notice skin irritation, digestive upset, or swelling after use, stop immediately.

Baking soda is safe in small, controlled amounts—but heavy or frequent use is not.

Popular Myths & Misinformation to Debunk

The internet has a way of turning a kitchen staple into a miracle cure.

When it comes to baking soda, a few myths stand out:

• “Baking soda cures ED or boosts testosterone overnight.” There is zero clinical evidence to support this. Erectile dysfunction and hormone health are complex issues, and baking soda does not affect them.
• “You can change your blood pH permanently with baking soda water.” The body tightly regulates blood pH through the lungs and kidneys. No drink can override that balance long term. At best, baking soda can cause a temporary buffering effect, but not a lasting shift.
• “More is better.” Some viral hacks encourage mixing large amounts of baking soda with water or other ingredients. This can backfire, causing nausea, diarrhea, and even dangerous electrolyte imbalances.

Practical, Doable Baking Soda Tricks for Men (Backed or Low-Risk)

Not every viral claim deserves attention, but there are a few practical ways men can use baking soda without taking big risks:

• Pre-workout boost (with caution): Research shows that a small dose—about ½ teaspoon mixed into plenty of water—can help buffer lactic acid and slightly extend high-intensity performance. This works best for short, intense efforts, not everyday gym sessions.
• Grooming and odor control: Baking soda paste under the arms or a sprinkle in shoes works as a natural deodorizer. A simple foot soak with warm water and 1–2 tablespoons of baking soda can also reduce odor and refresh tired feet.
• Post-exercise relief: Adding ½ cup of baking soda to a warm bath can help soothe skin, calm irritation, and ease muscle discomfort after training.
• Oral hygiene add-ons: Lightly brushing with baking soda or using a diluted rinse helps freshen breath and reduce surface stains. Use it periodically, not daily, to avoid enamel wear.

When to Choose Proven Alternatives / Professional Help

Baking soda has its place, but it’s not a substitute for professional care.

Knowing when to look beyond home remedies is just as important as knowing how to use them.

• Erectile dysfunction or hormonal concerns: Baking soda does not fix ED or boost testosterone. If you’re facing performance issues, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider who can identify the root cause and recommend proven treatment.
• Chronic odor or skin conditions: Persistent body odor, rashes, or irritation may point to an underlying issue. A dermatologist can provide tailored solutions far more effective than overusing baking soda.
• Digestive issues or acid reflux: While baking soda has been used as a quick antacid, long-term relief should come from evidence-based treatments. Ongoing symptoms need medical evaluation, not DIY fixes.

Conclusion

Baking soda has earned its reputation as a versatile household staple, and a few of the “baking soda tricks for men” trending online do have merit.

Small, controlled uses—like pre-workout buffering, odor control, or occasional dental care—can be safe and practical.

At the same time, many of the bold claims about boosting testosterone, curing ED, or permanently changing body chemistry are overhyped and unsupported by science.

Misusing baking soda, especially in large amounts, can lead to real health risks.

The smart approach is balance.

Test carefully, listen to your body, and treat baking soda as a helpful tool—not a miracle cure.

And when it comes to ongoing issues with performance, skin, or digestion, professional advice will always serve you better than a viral hack.