Why is NaHCO3 is an essential ingredient in antacids?
The excess of acid in the stomach causes acidity. As NaHCO3 is alkaline in nature, it neutralizes the excess acid and relieves discomfort. Hence it is an essential ingredient in antacids. Following equation explains its reaction with HCl
NaHCO3 + HCl --------> NaCl + H2O + CO2↑