Bicarbonate: Understanding Its Role in Health and pH Balance

Bicarbonate is naturally found in the human digestive system, body fluids and organs. It plays a vital role in maintaining the pH balance of the body.

In Digestion

• Bicarbonate is produced naturally in the stomach by the gastric membrane. In alkaline conditions the production will be low,but rises in an acidity environment.

In Blood

• In the blood and other body fluids, bicarbonate acts as a neutralizer to support the normal levels of pH. Foods or medications taken orally affect the the pH level and the function of the kidneys and lungs. .

Testing Bicarbonate Levels

• A blood test for electrolytes usually includes testing bicarbonate levels. A bicarbonate test can be taken with a routine blood test, or more specifically because your physician suspects an electrolyte or pH imbalance.

Low or High Levels

• Higher than normal bicarbonate levels may mean the body is having difficulty maintaining its pH balance, possibly by not removing carbon dioxide, or because of an electrolyte imbalance, most commonly a deficiency of potassium.
  Low bicarbonate levels are seen with starvation, shock, metabolic acidosis, respiratory alkalosis (which can be caused by hyperventilation) and during kidney failure.

Benefits of Oral Supplement

• Orally taking bicarbonate, either by pill or drinking mineral water, before exercising can assist in reducing muscular fatigue and increase short- term physical exercise performance.