Sodium Bicarbonate Effects

Bicarbonate is present in the body. It is secreted by the stomach for the purpose of digestion. The gastric membrane within the stomach secretes bicarbonate. The secretions increase when they encounter acidity. This controls the pH balance. Bicarbonate is also in bodily fluids and organs. It helps regulate the pH level of acid-base in the body. Sodium bicarbonate can be taken for additional benefits.

Neutralizes Stomach Acid

• Sodium bicarbonate is an effective antacid that neutralizes the acid in the stomach. For people who have gastric acidity, bicarbonate mixed in water may create a buffer. This means that bicarbonate is helpful for digestion.

Reduces Dietary Acid

• Mineral water has natural bicarbonate.

  Proteins such as meats produce acid. Sodium bicarbonate reduces calcium urinary excretion from protein's acid. Mineral water that contains bicarbonate is effective in stopping recurring calcium oxalate and uric acid renal stones associated with protein acidity.

Reduces Muscular Fatigue

• Consuming bicarbonate reduces muscular fatigue. It may increase the performance of short-term exercise.

Negative Impact

• Using intravenous solutions can cause fluid and solute overloading. This creates over-hydration, congestive pulmonary edema, and diluted serum electrolyte concentrations.

  Patients taking corticosteroids or corticotropin should use caution when taking sodium bicarbonate and consult with a health care professional.