Heartburn hits when you least expect it—maybe after a big meal, spicy food, or late-night snacking. When it strikes, two common remedies often come up: baking soda and Tums. Both can calm acid, but they work differently, taste different, and may not suit every situation. If you’ve been wondering which option is right for you, this guide breaks it down with clear comparisons, expert product picks, and buyer insights.
Quick Picks
- Best Overall: Gaviscon Extra Strength Liquid Antacid – Forms a protective barrier, longer relief, and no chalky taste.
- Best Budget: Rolaids Ultra Strength Chewable Tablets – Affordable, effective, and better taste than plain baking soda.
- Best Premium: Nexium 24HR Capsules – All-day protection for frequent heartburn sufferers, no taste issues at all.
Baking Soda vs Tums: What’s the Difference?
Both remedies neutralize stomach acid, but they aren’t identical:
- Baking Soda: Made of sodium bicarbonate. Works quickly when mixed with water but can leave a salty taste and add a lot of sodium to your diet.
- Tums: Made of calcium carbonate. Chewable tablets are convenient but often leave a chalky aftertaste.
In short: Baking soda is cheap and effective for quick relief, but Tums are easier to take and add calcium to your diet. Neither should be overused.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Right Heartburn Relief
When deciding between baking soda, Tums, or alternatives, consider these factors:
- Taste: Baking soda has a salty flavor, Tums can be chalky—liquids or capsules may be more pleasant.
- Sodium Levels: Baking soda adds sodium, which may not be suitable for people with high blood pressure.
- Calcium Supplement: Tums provide calcium, which may benefit bone health.
- Convenience: Tums are portable, while baking soda needs mixing in water.
- Frequency of Symptoms: Occasional heartburn can be handled by either, but frequent symptoms may need stronger medications like Nexium or Prilosec.
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Gaviscon Extra Strength Liquid Antacid
Who it’s for: Those who dislike chalky chewables or salty baking soda mixtures.
Key Benefits:
- Forms a protective layer over stomach contents.
- Mint flavor masks bitterness.
- Longer-lasting than Tums or baking soda.
Pros: Smooth taste, extended relief, gentle on the stomach.
Cons: Less portable, slightly more expensive.
Final Verdict: A top choice for taste and effectiveness. Get Gaviscon Extra Strength here.
2. Rolaids Ultra Strength Chewable Tablets
Who it’s for: Budget-conscious users who want chewable relief without heavy chalkiness.
Key Benefits:
- Dissolves faster than Tums.
- Fruity flavors improve taste.
- Dual action with calcium and magnesium.
Pros: Affordable, better taste than Tums, quick relief.
Cons: Still slightly chalky, not for long-term use.
Final Verdict: A strong chewable alternative. Check Rolaids here.
3. Nexium 24HR Capsules
Who it’s for: People with chronic heartburn needing all-day control.
Key Benefits:
- Prevents acid at the source.
- One capsule daily = 24-hour protection.
- No taste or aftertaste issues.
Pros: Effective, convenient, proven formula.
Cons: Not instant relief, higher cost.
Final Verdict: Ideal for frequent sufferers. Buy Nexium 24HR here.
4. Pepcid AC Maximum Strength Tablets
Who it’s for: People who want swallowable tablets without chalk or saltiness.
Key Benefits:
- Blocks acid before it starts.
- No aftertaste.
- Fast-acting compared to PPIs.
Pros: Convenient, fast relief, good for prevention.
Cons: Wears off faster than Nexium.
Final Verdict: A clean, easy-to-take alternative. Order Pepcid here.
5. Prilosec OTC Acid Reducer
Who it’s for: Frequent sufferers who want healing and prevention.
Key Benefits:
- 24-hour control.
- No taste or chalk issues.
- Helps repair acid damage.
Pros: Reliable, strong relief, long-lasting.
Cons: Takes 1–4 days to fully kick in.
Final Verdict: Great for long-term management. See Prilosec here.
6. Zantac 360 Maximum Strength
Who it’s for: People looking for a middle-ground option with no aftertaste.
Key Benefits:
- Famotidine reduces acid quickly.
- No chalky or salty taste.
- Good for both prevention and relief.
Pros: Taste-free, effective, fast onset.
Cons: Not as powerful as PPIs.
Final Verdict: A solid option for daily or occasional use. Check Zantac 360 here.
Comparison Table
| Name | Key Features | Specs/Capacity | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gaviscon Extra Strength Liquid | Foamy barrier, mint flavor | 12 oz bottle | Check Price |
| Rolaids Ultra Strength | Fruit chewables, dual action | 72 tablets | Check Price |
| Nexium 24HR | 24-hour acid control | 42 capsules | Check Price |
| Pepcid AC Maximum Strength | Swallowable acid blocker | 50 tablets | Check Price |
| Prilosec OTC | Proton pump inhibitor | 42 capsules | Check Price |
| Zantac 360 | Famotidine formula | 80 tablets | Check Price |
FAQs
Is baking soda safe for heartburn?
It works quickly but adds sodium. It’s best used only occasionally, not as a daily treatment.
Why do Tums sometimes taste chalky?
Tums are made of calcium carbonate, which naturally has a chalk-like texture when chewed.
Which works faster: baking soda or Tums?
Baking soda in water works very quickly. Tums are also fast but may take a bit longer to dissolve.
Can I use both baking soda and Tums?
Not at the same time—both neutralize stomach acid, and combining them can add unnecessary sodium and calcium.
What’s the best alternative to both?
Liquid antacids like Gaviscon or acid reducers like Nexium offer more lasting relief without taste issues.
Conclusion
So, when comparing baking soda vs Tums, it really comes down to preference and health needs. Baking soda is cheap and fast but salty. Tums are portable and calcium-rich but can taste chalky. If you’re tired of either option, products like Gaviscon Extra Strength or Nexium 24HR offer smoother, longer-lasting solutions. Choose wisely and enjoy meals without the burn—or the bad taste afterward.