Extraceullular buffer choice influences acid-base responses and gastrointestinal symptoms

Author(s)

Peacock, J. ; Sparks, S. A. ; Middlebrook, I ; Hilton, N. P. ; Tinnion, D. ; Leach, N. ; Saunders, B. ; McNaughton, L. R.

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: RESEARCH IN SPORTS MEDICINE; v. 29, n. 6, p. 12-pg., 2021-03-12.

Abstract

To compare the pharmokinetic and gastrointestinal (GI) symptom responses between an equal dose of sodium bicarbonate and sodium citrate using delayed-release capsules. Thirteen active males (age 20.5 +/- 2.1 y, height 1.82 +/- 0.1 m and body mass 76.5 +/- 9.6 kg) consumed either 0.3 g(.)kg(-1) BM sodium bicarbonate, sodium citrate or a placebo, using a double-blind, randomized crossover design. Blood bicarbonate [HCO3 (-)] concentration, pH and GI symptoms were measured pre-ingestion and every 10 min for 180 min post-consumption. [HCO3 (-)] concentration (P < 0.001) and pH (P = 0.040) were significantly higher in the sodium bicarbonate condition compared with sodium citrate condition up to 3 h post-consumption. Peak blood HCO3 (-) concentration was significantly higher with sodium bicarbonate compared with citrate (P < 0.001). Mean GI symptom scores were lower (P = 0.037) for sodium citrate (1.5 +/- 1.8 AU) than bicarbonate (2.6 +/- 3.1 AU), with considerable inter-individual variability. No GI symptoms were reported following consumption of the placebo. Both substances alter [HCO3 (-)] values significantly, with sodium bicarbonate causing significantly higher pH and [HCO3 (-)] values than the same dose of sodium citrate, but results in slightly more severe GI symptoms. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 16/50438-0 - Nutritional suplementation and exercise to optimize exercise performance: focus on individual responses and a step towards personalized sports nutrition
• Grantee: Bryan Saunders
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Young Investigators Grants