28/01/2026
Sodium bicarbonate is something I look at clinically far more than people realise!
When I review blood results, I always check bicarbonate and the anion gap. These markers give insight into how acidic the body’s internal environment is.
Chronic low-grade metabolic acidosis is common and can contribute to increased inflammation, reduced detoxification efficiency, and added pressure on the kidneys.
Enzymes are pH sensitive so if your tissues become acidic it can affect digestive enzymes, detoxification enzymes and mitochondria enzymes.
Acidic tissues = increased inflammation = reduced detox efficiency + kidney stess
Blood pH stays tightly regulated but tissue, intracellular and micro-environment pH can shift
Over time, I’ve noticed a declining kidney function (eGFR) in many people coming to clinic, which led me back to the research on kidney health and acid balance.
A seminar by Dr Patana Teng-umnuay (MD, PhD) was particularly influential, highlighting the role of bicarbonate in supporting kidney function and SLOWING CKD progression when used appropriately!
Bicarbonate is also helpful in sports performance as it helps buffer exercise- related acid load and helps reduce muscle fatigue.
In Cancer support bicarb helps to buffer tumour micro environment acidity, supports metabolic resilience and helps reduce treatment related acidosis
And it’s SO CHEAP!
Best to buy bicarb that’s aluminium free from flannerys health food stores (not from supermarkets) I will share some in my stories
Book in through the link in my bio if you would like me to assess your blood results and check your acidity levels