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["Drinking the waters" as a therapeutic exercise in the ionic range]
MMW, Munchener Medizinische Wochenschrift
|March 14, 1975
Summary
Drinking mineral waters impacts electrolyte balance, affecting serum calcium and magnesium levels. These changes, influenced by carbonic acid and hormones, persist for weeks after treatment, highlighting the body's compensatory mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Human Physiology
- Balneology
Context:
- Investigated the effects of mineral water consumption on 198 spa patients.
- Analyzed electrolyte and acid-base balance before, during, and after spa treatment.
Purpose:
- To understand the impact of mineral water on electrolyte metabolism.
- To investigate the body's compensatory responses to ingested carbonic acid.
- To explore hormonal influences on ion concentration changes.
Summary:
- Simultaneously measured serum, urine, saliva, and perspiration electrolytes (Na, K, Ca, Mg, Cl, P) and blood pH using Astrup's method.
- Observed that ingested carbonic acid triggers compensatory processes against acidification, increasing serum calcium and/or magnesium.
- Identified that mineral water composition and hormonal effects (adrenal cortex/medulla) influence ion concentration shifts.
Impact:
- Demonstrates significant, lasting alterations in electrolyte balance and acid-base homeostasis following mineral water therapy.
- Provides insights into the physiological mechanisms underlying spa treatment efficacy.
- Suggests potential therapeutic applications for managing electrolyte and acid-base disturbances.