A cheap alkaline salt that buffers acid. Its strongest use is boosting high-intensity exercise lasting seconds to minutes, delaying fatigue and improving muscular endurance. A daily dose may help preserve kidney function and muscle in people with declining, slightly acidic kidneys, though evidence conflicts. Stomach upset is common, and the heavy sodium load concerns anyone watching blood pressure. (Full Review)
| Marker | Target | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Serum bicarbonate (total CO₂) | 23–27 mmol/L | Confirms acid-base status and guides clinical dosing |
| Serum sodium | 135–142 mmol/L | Detects sodium loading from the dose |
| Serum potassium | 4.0–4.5 mmol/L | Alkalinization and diuretics can lower potassium |
| Blood pressure | <120/80 mmHg | Sodium load can raise blood pressure |
| eGFR (kidney filtration) | >90 mL/min (age-adjusted) | Impaired kidneys cannot excrete excess bicarbonate/sodium |
| Serum calcium | 9.0–10.0 mg/dL | Screens for milk-alkali risk with calcium co-intake |
| Urine pH | 6.0–6.5 (higher if stone prevention is the goal) | Confirms alkalinizing effect where that is the aim |
Cadence: Baseline before regular use; recheck blood chemistry and blood pressure at 4–6 weeks after starting or dose changes, then every 3–6 months during sustained daily use. Occasional performance-only use needs little beyond a normal baseline.