Bicarbonate

Electrolytes marker

Bicarbonate

Category: Electrolytes
Unit: mmol/L

Key buffer in the blood that maintains acid-base balance. Low levels indicate metabolic acidosis.

PED Notes

Can be affected by intense exercise (lactic acidosis lowers bicarbonate transiently). Generally not affected by AAS. Low values with high anion gap may indicate kidney issues.

When low (metabolic acidosis):

  • Transient post-training: Normal -- lactic acid from intense exercise consumes bicarbonate; resolves within hours. Ensure blood draw is on a rest day for accurate reading
  • Persistent low bicarbonate with high anion gap: Investigate kidney function (chronic kidney disease causes acid retention), diabetic ketoacidosis (if on GH with impaired glucose tolerance), or lactic acidosis
  • Sodium bicarbonate -- 500mg-1g/day may help if mildly low and chronic (also used as a performance supplement at 200-300mg/kg pre-training)
  • Ensure adequate hydration and monitor kidney markers

When high (metabolic alkalosis):

  • Common cause in athletes: prolonged vomiting, excessive antacid use, or diuretic use during contest prep
  • Correct the underlying cause (stop diuretics, address vomiting)
  • Ensure adequate potassium and chloride intake

References:

  • Filippini, T., Naska, A., Kasdagli, M.-I., et al. (2020). Potassium intake and blood pressure: A dose-response meta-analysis. Journal of the American Heart Association, 9(12), e015719. DOI: 10.1161/JAHA.119.015719

History Chart

Reading History

Frequently Asked Questions

Reference Ranges

Standard Range

22 - 32 mmol/L

VitalMetrics Range

20 - 32 mmol/L

Statistics