Body pH levels

[Phaedrus49er]

In a recent T-mag article (hell if I can find it now, of course), it mentioned that the body's acid levels elevate during low/no-carb phases, increasing the lactic acid potential of muscle tissue. To combat this, it suggested taking a solution of 1Tsp baking soda in water. Did I dream this, or is this realistic and/or practical?

[bryanc]

Blargh, don't do this. You would not be amongst the first athletes to try this in order to "neutralize" lactic acid. Assuming the baking soda got past your gut ('cause your stomach secretes hydrochloric acid, which is incredibly reactive with bases), in order to prevent lactic acid accumulation, you'd have to take the baking soda _before_ exercise, which throws your blood pH off and makes you feel pretty lousy. From what I've heard from rower friends who tried it, the after-effects (after exercise) are none too pleasant either.

[Jean-Paul]

I don't have anything to add... I am just laughing out loud because Bryan said "Blargh!"

[Phaedrus49er]

Works for me. That's one less thing on my grocery list [img]smile.gif[/img]