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Ergogenic effects of sodium bicarbonate
Lars R McNaughton1, Jason Siegler, Adrian Midgley
1University of Hull, Department of Sport, Health and Exercise Science, Hull, England. l.mcnaughton@hull.ac.uk
Current Sports Medicine Reports
|July 9, 2008
Summary
Athletes use buffering agents like sodium bicarbonate to combat exercise fatigue. This review examines optimal dosage, timing, and exercise types for buffer effectiveness.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Sports Science
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Athletes employ various strategies to boost performance, including ergogenic aids.
- Ergogenic aids, such as sodium bicarbonate and sodium citrate (buffers), are popular for potentially delaying fatigue.
- These substances may counteract acid-base imbalances during intense exercise.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the scientific literature on buffering agents in sports.
- To address key issues regarding the use of buffers: dosage, timing, and exercise specificity.
- To provide insights into optimizing the ergogenic effect of buffering agents.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature search of studies on sodium bicarbonate and sodium citrate.
- Analysis of research data concerning ergogenic effects, dosage, timing, and exercise type.
- Synthesis of findings to address common questions about buffer efficacy.
Main Results:
- Buffering agents have been researched extensively since the 1930s.
- Optimal strategies for buffer use vary based on individual factors and exercise demands.
- Research continues to refine understanding of buffer mechanisms and applications.
Conclusions:
- Sodium bicarbonate and citrate show potential as ergogenic aids by mitigating exercise-induced acidosis.
- Further research is needed to establish precise, universally applicable guidelines for buffer ingestion.
- Understanding dosage, timing, and exercise type is crucial for maximizing the benefits of buffering agents.
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