baking soda vs. pickling lyme?

I still have yet to try the alkalyzing drink, I don't know why, but the pickling lyme makes me nervous. I've read on other sites that lime or lemon juice (or ACV) can be mixed with about 1/4 tsp. baking soda for a similar alkalizing effect, though some people (on Curezone, I've noticed) feel that baking soda is akin to poison to the body, so I'm not sure about that, either. Just curious whether anyone has thoughts on that subject.