Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Bicarbonate (commonly in the form of sodium bicarbonate) is used to support the muscles body system, particularly in the context of athletic performance and exercise. There is substantial scientific evidence supporting its use as an “ergogenic aid,” especially for high-intensity, short-duration activities that rely heavily on anaerobic metabolism, such as sprinting and interval training.

During intense exercise, lactic acid accumulates in the muscles, leading to a drop in pH (acidosis), which contributes to muscle fatigue. Bicarbonate acts as a buffering agent by neutralizing excess acid in the blood, thereby helping to maintain a more optimal pH and potentially delaying the onset of fatigue. Numerous randomized, placebo-controlled trials and meta-analyses have shown that acute ingestion of bicarbonate (typically 0.2–0.3 g/kg body weight) can improve performance in high-intensity exercise lasting from about 1 to 7 minutes. The ergogenic effect is most pronounced in activities that result in substantial acid accumulation.

However, individual responses can vary, and gastrointestinal side effects (such as nausea and cramping) are a common limiting factor. Most professional sports nutrition and exercise physiology guidelines recognize bicarbonate as a scientifically validated intervention for specific exercise contexts. It is not used for traditional or folkloric muscle support, but rather as a targeted, evidence-based strategy for athletic performance.

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Other ingredients that support Muscles

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adenosine 5-triphosphate disodium (ATP)
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Alpha hydroxyisocaproic acid
alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG)
Alpha-ketoisocaproic acid
amino acids
AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)
animal protein
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antler
arachidonic acid
arginine alpha ketoglutarate
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ba ji tian
banana
BCAA
bee products
beef
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Beef Protein
beet
beta-alanine
beta-hydroxybutyrate
bicarbonate
Biopeptide
black galingale
black ginger
black gram
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blue cohosh
bovine
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calcium
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cherry
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deer velvet
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egg
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electrolytes blend (proprietary)
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Other body systems supported by bicarbonate

Blood
Digestive System
Gastrointestinal Tract
Intestinal System
Kidneys
Muscles
Stomach
Urinary System

Products containing bicarbonate

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.