Uses for Baking Soda in the Home  Also known as sodium
bicarbonate or bicarbonate of soda, baking soda is best known as
a leavening agent, since it's involved in the chemical reaction
that causes dough to rise. But baking soda is a household staple
that has hundreds of uses.  Cooking and Cleaning -
MasterfileBaking soda is somewhat alkaline—that is, it has a pH
above 7 and thus helps neutralize acids, including acidic scent
molecules. That's why baking soda comes in handy, as follows:
• It has various uses in cooking, not just baking. Adding a
pinch to the soaking water of beans speeds the cooking process
and helps reduce compounds that cause gas in the GI tract and
flatulence. A pinch added to tomato sauce while cooking, or
coffee while brewing, reduces acidity. It's also an effective
meat tenderizer, since it breaks down proteins.   • Because it's
a mild abrasive and deodorizer, baking soda is a gentle,
inexpensive cleanser for sinks, tiles, toilet bowls and ovens.
And it's a good ingredient in toothpast