Research

Sodium Bicarbonate (Sport)

67 peer-reviewed studies curated from PubMed and Semantic Scholar.

17
Meta-analyses
0
Systematic reviews
49
RCTs
1
Other studies
Meta-analyses (25%)
RCTs (73%)

Studies

Sorted by quality and recency

2025·Prehospital emergency care·Guilherme Pozueco Zaffari, Lívia Noguero Duarte, Ivo Queiroz, et al

Effectiveness of Sodium Bicarbonate Administration in Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrests: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 126,013

Systematic review and meta-analysis of 11 studies (2 RCTs, 9 observational) evaluating sodium bicarbonate in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. No significant differences were observed in return of spontaneous circulation or survival to discharge, suggesting routine use is not recommended.

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2025·JAMA·Boris Jung, Mathieu Jabaudon, Audrey De Jong, et al

Sodium Bicarbonate for Severe Metabolic Acidemia and Acute Kidney Injury: The BICARICU-2 Randomized Clinical Trial.

RCTn = 640

RCT of 640 patients with severe metabolic acidemia and moderate to severe acute kidney injury, comparing intravenous sodium bicarbonate infusion to no infusion. Sodium bicarbonate did not affect day 90 all-cause mortality, but reduced the need for kidney replacement therapy compared to controls.

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2025·JAMA network open·Chien-Yu Chi, Yun-Chang Chen, Ming-Tai Cheng, et al

Diphenhydramine, Sodium Bicarbonate, or Combination for Acute Peripheral Vertigo: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

RCTn = 222

A randomized clinical trial evaluated the efficacy and safety of diphenhydramine, sodium bicarbonate, and their combination in treating acute peripheral vertigo among emergency department patients. The combination therapy provided better symptom relief than diphenhydramine alone, with less frequent rescue therapy use. Sodium bicarbonate showed similar improvement in vertigo severity compared to diphenhydramine, with less lethargy reported.

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2025·Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition·Larry E Miller, Ruemon Bhattacharyya, Samuel J Katz, et al

Negligible benefit of oral single-dose sodium bicarbonate on continuous running performance: systematic review with meta-analysis of randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials.

Meta-analysisn = 126Physical Performance -

Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials examining the effects of oral single-dose sodium bicarbonate supplementation on continuous running performance. The analysis found negligible benefit on performance in a mixed-sex population, with a small benefit observed in males. Gastrointestinal symptoms were common with sodium bicarbonate use.

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2025·Research in sports medicine (Print)·Dongxiang Huang, Xiaobing Wang, Hideki Takagi, et al

Effects of sodium bicarbonate on 200 m time trial performance and physiological responses in swimmers: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Meta-analysisPhysical Performance -

This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effects of sodium bicarbonate supplementation on 200 m time trial performance and physiological responses in swimmers. Results showed significant increases in blood bicarbonate, blood lactate, and blood pH, but no effect on 200 m performance.

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2024·Clinical journal of the American Society of Nephrology : CJASN·Ting-Ya Yang, Hong-Min Lin, Hsien-Yi Wang, et al

Sodium Bicarbonate Treatment and Clinical Outcomes in Chronic Kidney Disease with Metabolic Acidosis: A Meta-Analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 2,037

Meta-analysis of 14 RCTs with 2037 patients showing sodium bicarbonate supplementation in CKD with metabolic acidosis improves eGFR and mid-arm muscle circumference, but increases the risk of elevated systolic blood pressure. No significant difference in all-cause mortality was noted.

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2024·Daru : journal of Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences·Romina Kaveh-Ahangaran, Mohammad Abdollahi, Mohammad Vaezi, et al

Oral regimen for high dose methotrexate urine alkalinization: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 1,212

Systematic review and meta-analysis of 12 studies with 1212 participants evaluating the efficacy and safety of oral bicarbonate regimens for urine alkalinization in patients receiving high-dose methotrexate. The oral regimen was found to be a safe and effective alternative to IV protocols, with significant findings related to urine pH and incidence of diarrhea.

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2023·The American journal of emergency medicine·Tingzhen Xu, Chenxia Wu, Qinkang Shen, et al

The effect of sodium bicarbonate on OHCA patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis of RCT and propensity score studies.

Meta-analysisn = 21,402

Systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs and PSM cohort studies evaluating sodium bicarbonate in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) patients. The analysis found no difference in short-term or long-term survival rates between the bicarbonate and control groups, with a sensitivity analysis suggesting potential worsening of long-term survival with bicarbonate.

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2023·Clinical journal of the American Society of Nephrology : CJASN·Beverley Beynon-Cobb, Panayiotis Louca, Ewout J Hoorn, et al

Effect of Sodium Bicarbonate on Systolic Blood Pressure in CKD: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 2,110Heart Health -

Systematic review and meta-analysis of 14 RCTs with 2110 individuals with CKD, evaluating the effect of sodium bicarbonate on systolic blood pressure. The analysis found that sodium bicarbonate did not influence systolic BP or increase the use of antihypertensive medication, suggesting no adverse effect on heart health.

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2023·Journal of cachexia, sarcopenia and muscle·Wesley J Visser, Elma E M van de Braak, Anneke M E de Mik-van Egmond, et al

Effects of correcting metabolic acidosis on muscle mass and functionality in chronic kidney disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 1,995Nutrition Physical Performance

Systematic review and meta-analysis of 12 intervention studies with 1995 CKD patients assessing the effects of correcting metabolic acidosis using oral sodium bicarbonate or veverimer. Correction significantly improved muscle mass and physical function, but had no significant effects on dietary protein intake, handgrip strength, serum albumin, prealbumin concentrations, and blood urea nitrogen.

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2023·International urology and nephrology·Mahmud Islam

Sodium bicarbonate is a potential alternative to classic heparin as a lock solution for non-tunneled dialysis catheters: a result from the prospective randomized BicarbLock trial.

RCTn = 426

The BicarbLock trial compared sodium bicarbonate to heparin as a lock solution for non-tunneled dialysis catheters in 426 patients. Sodium bicarbonate was found to be as effective as heparin in preventing catheter lumen thrombosis and had a comparable incidence of catheter-related complications, offering a cost-effective alternative.

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2023·The American journal of emergency medicine·Muhammad Ashir Shafique, Noman Adil Shaikh, Abdul Haseeb, et al

Sodium bicarbonate Ringer's solution for hemorrhagic shock: A meta-analysis comparing crystalloid solutions.

Meta-analysis

Meta-analysis comparing Sodium Bicarbonate Ringer's Solution (BRS) to other crystalloid solutions for hemorrhagic shock. BRS showed a significant reduction in complications such as ARDS and MODS, and a decrease in heart rate, suggesting potential benefits in organ stability and survival.

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2022·The journal of evidence-based dental practice·Silvio Taschieri, Margherita Tumedei, Luca Francetti, et al

EFFICACY OF 67% SODIUM BICARBONATE TOOTHPASTE FOR PLAQUE AND GINGIVITIS CONTROL: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS.

Meta-analysis

Systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy of 67% sodium bicarbonate toothpaste for improving gingival health in subjects with gingivitis. Significant improvements in gingival, bleeding, and plaque indices were observed compared to controls.

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2021·Resuscitation·Chih-Yao Chang, Po-Han Wu, Cheng-Ting Hsiao, et al

Sodium bicarbonate administration during in-hospital pediatric cardiac arrest: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 4,877Longevity

Systematic review and meta-analysis of 7 observational studies assessing the impact of sodium bicarbonate administration during in-hospital pediatric cardiac arrest. Sodium bicarbonate was associated with a significantly decreased rate of survival to hospital discharge, supporting current guidelines against its routine use in pediatric cardiac arrest.

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2021·Oral health & preventive dentistry·Stephen Mason, Pranati Patil, Vaishali Karad

A Randomised Clinical Study to Evaluate Efficacy on Gingival Health of 62% and 67% Sodium Bicarbonate Toothpastes.

RCTn = 330

This randomized, examiner-blind, parallel study evaluated the efficacy of 67% and 62% sodium bicarbonate toothpastes on gingival health over 12 weeks. Both sodium bicarbonate groups showed significant improvements in plaque control and reduced gingival bleeding compared to the 0% sodium bicarbonate group.

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2021·European journal of sport science·Bryan Saunders, Luana Farias de Oliveira, Eimear Dolan, et al

Sodium bicarbonate supplementation and the female athlete: A brief commentary with small scale systematic review and meta-analysis.

Meta-analysisPhysical Performance

This study conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the effects of sodium bicarbonate supplementation on blood bicarbonate levels and exercise performance in women. Results showed a significant increase in blood bicarbonate and a small to medium positive ergogenic effect on exercise performance in women.

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2020·Journal of equine veterinary science·Joshua Denham, Adam Hulme

A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis on Sodium Bicarbonate Administration and Equine Running Performance: Is it Time to Stop Horsing Around With Baking Soda?

Meta-analysisn = 74Physical Performance -

Systematic review and meta-analysis of seven randomized controlled trials with 74 horses to assess the effect of sodium bicarbonate administration on equine running performance. Results indicate that sodium bicarbonate administration does not improve running performance in trained Standardbred or Thoroughbred horses.

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2020·Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.)·Jozo Grgic, Ramon F Rodriguez, Alessandro Garofolini, et al

Effects of Sodium Bicarbonate Supplementation on Muscular Strength and Endurance: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Meta-analysisPhysical Performance

Systematic review and meta-analysis of studies on sodium bicarbonate supplementation's effects on muscular strength and endurance. Found ergogenic effects on muscular endurance for both small and large muscle groups, but no significant effect on muscular strength.

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2015·Colombia medica (Cali, Colombia)·Carlos Andres Zapata-Chica, Diana Bello Marquez, Lina Maria Serna-Higuita, et al

Sodium bicarbonate versus isotonic saline solution to prevent contrast-induced nephropathy : a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 5,686

Systematic review and meta-analysis comparing sodium bicarbonate to 0.9% saline solution for preventing contrast-induced nephropathy. Sodium bicarbonate did not decrease the risk of nephropathy, nor did it reduce mortality or the need for renal replacement therapy.

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2008·American journal of kidney diseases : the official journal of the National Kidney Foundation·Sankar D Navaneethan, Sonal Singh, Suresh Appasamy, et al

Sodium bicarbonate therapy for prevention of contrast-induced nephropathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 1,854

Systematic review and meta-analysis of 12 trials with 1,854 participants comparing intravenous sodium bicarbonate to normal saline for prevention of contrast-induced nephropathy. Sodium bicarbonate significantly decreased the risk of contrast-induced nephropathy without significant differences in need for renal replacement therapy or in-hospital mortality.

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2025·BMC oral health·Xiaona Li, Runyu Yang, Mei Lu, et al

Effects of sodium bicarbonate solution on tongue coating and oral hygiene in patients with heart failure: a randomized controlled trial.

RCTn = 108

This randomized controlled trial evaluated the effectiveness of sodium bicarbonate solution gargling on tongue coating, oral hygiene, and oral health status in 108 heart failure patients. Patients were divided into three groups, with groups B and C receiving sodium bicarbonate gargling in addition to standard oral hygiene care. From the fourth day onwards, groups B and C showed significant improvements in tongue coating and oral health compared to group A. Group C demonstrated the greatest reduction in tongue coating by the sixth day.

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2025·European journal of trauma and emergency surgery : official publication of the European Trauma Society·Rahul Kumar Chaudhary, Ankita Dhir, Venkata Ganesh, et al

Effect of isotonic sodium bicarbonate infusion on perioperative acid-base status among patients undergoing emergency laparotomy for perforation peritonitis (ISABEL trial): a randomized controlled trial.

RCTn = 90

RCT comparing isotonic sodium bicarbonate infusion to balanced crystalloid solution in 90 patients undergoing emergency laparotomy for perforation peritonitis. The ISB group showed significantly better perioperative acid-base balance and lower incidence of postoperative AKI and vasopressor requirement.

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2025·Hemodialysis international. International Symposium on Home Hemodialysis·Hoda M M Abdulaziz, Alaa Sabry, Marwa Saleh, et al

Oral Sodium Bicarbonate vs. Use of Higher Dialysate Bicarbonate in Hemodialysis Patients With Metabolic Acidosis: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

RCTn = 66

This randomized controlled trial compared the effects of oral sodium bicarbonate supplementation versus increased dialysate bicarbonate concentration on predialysis serum bicarbonate levels in hemodialysis patients with metabolic acidosis. Both interventions increased predialysis bicarbonate levels compared to baseline, but neither achieved the target correction of acidosis.

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2025·Scientific reports·Nipon Ngupis, Bancha Satirapoj, Theerasak Tangwonglert, et al

Effect of oral sodium bicarbonate supplementation on urine TGF-𝜷 in normal serum bicarbonate CKD, a randomized controlled trial.

RCTn = 64

RCT evaluating high-dose sodium bicarbonate supplementation in non-diabetic CKD patients with normal serum bicarbonate levels. The study found no significant reduction in urinary TGF-β but a significant increase in urine pH. No serious adverse events were reported.

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2024·The American journal of medicine·Nimrit Goraya, Nicolaos E Madias, Jan Simoni, et al

Kidney and Cardiovascular Protection Using Dietary Acid Reduction in Primary Hypertension: A Five-Year, Interventional, Randomized, Control Trial.

RCTn = 153Heart Health Inflammation

RCT of 153 hypertensive macroalbuminuric patients comparing fruits and vegetables, oral sodium bicarbonate, or usual care over five years. Chronic kidney disease progression was slower with fruits and vegetables or sodium bicarbonate compared to usual care. Cardiovascular benefits were more pronounced with fruits and vegetables.

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2024·Obesity surgery·Xinyue Jiang, Rui Wang, Lan Guo, et al

Effects of Sodium Bicarbonate Ringer's Solution Combined with Positive End-Expiratory Pressure on the Internal Environment of Patients Undergoing Bariatric Surgery: A Randomized 2 × 2 Factorial Design Pilot.

RCTn = 128

RCT evaluating the effects of sodium bicarbonate Ringer's solution (BRS) combined with positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) on patients undergoing laparoscopic bariatric surgery. The combination improved acid-base balance, reduced inflammatory response, shortened recovery time, and enhanced early postoperative recovery quality.

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2024·Medicine·Bogdan Marian Sorohan, Bogdan Obrișcă, Roxana Jurubiță, et al

Sodium citrate versus sodium bicarbonate for metabolic acidosis in patients with chronic kidney disease: A randomized controlled trial.

RCTn = 124

RCT comparing oral sodium citrate and sodium bicarbonate in 124 patients with metabolic acidosis and chronic kidney disease stages 3b and 4. Both treatments improved serum bicarbonate levels with no significant difference in kidney function decline, but sodium bicarbonate had higher rates of discontinuation due to adverse events.

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2024·Journal of orthopaedic surgery and research·Yuchen Zhu, Shaoning Shen, Longkang Cui, et al

Magnesium sulphate and sodium bicarbonate as additives for periarticular local infiltration analgesia improve pain management after unicompartmental knee arthroplasty: a prospective, double-blind, randomized controlled trial.

RCTn = 61Joint Bone Health

RCT of 61 patients undergoing unicompartmental knee arthroplasty comparing a modified periarticular infiltration cocktail including magnesium sulphate and sodium bicarbonate to a conventional cocktail. The modified cocktail significantly prolonged analgesic effects and reduced pain medication consumption, leading to better functional recovery in the early postoperative days.

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2024·Journal of evidence-based integrative medicine·Arman Shafiee, Kyana Jafarabady, Hassan Moltazemi, et al

Alkalinization Using Sodium Bicarbonate for COVID-19 Treatment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Meta-analysisn = 19

Systematic review and meta-analysis evaluating the efficacy of alkalinization using sodium bicarbonate for COVID-19 treatment. The analysis showed a significant reduction in mortality rate and duration of hospitalization, and an improved recovery rate in the alkalinization group compared to controls, though with low certainty of evidence.

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2024·The Journal of arthroplasty·Shuwei Ye, Qiuru Wang, Chengcheng Zhao, et al

Effects of a Modified Long-Acting Cocktail on Analgesia and Enhanced Recovery After Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Double-Blinded Randomized Clinical Trial.

RCTInflammation Physical Performance

Double-blinded RCT comparing a modified analgesic cocktail including magnesium sulfate and sodium bicarbonate to a standard cocktail in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty. The modified cocktail reduced morphine consumption, prolonged analgesia duration, improved hip range of motion, and reduced inflammatory markers post-surgery.

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2024·Nutrients·Fang-Lin Jiang, Dong-Ho Jeong, Seon-Ho Eom, et al

Effects of Enteric-Coated Formulation of Sodium Bicarbonate on Bicarbonate Absorption and Gastrointestinal Discomfort.

RCTPhysical Performance

This study evaluated the effects of enteric-coated sodium bicarbonate on bicarbonate absorption and gastrointestinal discomfort in humans. The enteric-coated formulation reduced the required dose to achieve a blood bicarbonate concentration over 5 mmol/L and decreased gastrointestinal discomfort compared to uncoated tablets.

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2023·Journal of the American Society of Nephrology : JASN·Kalani L Raphael, Ronit Katz, Brett Larive, et al

Oral Sodium Bicarbonate and Bone Turnover in CKD: A Secondary Analysis of the BASE Pilot Trial.

RCTn = 194Joint Bone Health -

Post hoc analysis of the BASE Pilot Trial with 194 CKD patients, examining sodium bicarbonate's effect on bone turnover markers. Sodium bicarbonate increased serum klotho levels but had no significant effect on other bone health markers over 28 weeks.

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2023·Journal of the American Society of Nephrology : JASN·Jessica Kendrick, Zhiying You, Emily Andrews, et al

Sodium Bicarbonate Treatment and Vascular Function in CKD: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.

RCTn = 109Heart Health -

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial studied the effect of sodium bicarbonate on vascular function in 109 patients with CKD stage 3b-4. Sodium bicarbonate increased plasma bicarbonate levels and altered urinary excretion but did not improve vascular endothelial function, reduce arterial stiffness, or affect left ventricular mass index. The treatment was safe and well-tolerated.

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2026·Experimental physiology·Jacky Soo, Shernise Ng, Chris Abbiss, et al

Influence of prior alkalosis or acidosis on physiological responses during passive hyperthermia.

RCTn = 12

This study examined the effects of manipulating blood pH to be mildly acidic or basic prior to passive hyperthermia on thermoregulatory and chemo-regulatory responses in 12 healthy males. Sodium bicarbonate increased blood pH, while ammonium chloride decreased it. Ventilatory responses and thermal perceptions were influenced by prior alkalemia or acidosis.

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2025·Blood purification·Dingye Wu, Tao Zhou, Junfeng Heng, et al

Application of Sodium Bicarbonate Prereduction in Regional Citrate Anticoagulation for Continuous Veno-Venous Hemofiltration.

RCTn = 41

RCT exploring the effectiveness of sodium bicarbonate prereduction during continuous veno-venous hemofiltration with regional citrate anticoagulation. The prereduction group showed significantly lower bicarbonate ion levels and required fewer bicarbonate adjustments compared to the control group.

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2025·BMC nephrology·Fangning Gu, Zhiying You, Nell Hawkins, et al

Effects of sodium bicarbonate therapy on cognitive and cerebrovascular function in midlife and older adults with chronic kidney disease: a pilot randomized trial.

RCTn = 34Brain Health -

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study examined the effect of 12 months of sodium bicarbonate on cognitive function in 34 patients with chronic kidney disease and metabolic acidosis. While there were trends suggesting sodium bicarbonate might affect cognitive function, no significant differences were found compared to placebo.

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2025·Nutrients·William H Gurton, Lewis A Gough, Anthony Lynn, et al

Effect of Oral and Topical Sodium Bicarbonate on Functional Recovery and Soccer-Specific Performance After Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study.

RCTn = 24Recovery -Physical Performance

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study assessed the effects of oral and topical sodium bicarbonate on recovery and soccer-specific performance after exercise-induced muscle damage in 24 soccer players. While sodium bicarbonate did not accelerate recovery, oral administration attenuated the decline in soccer-specific performance, showing significant effects on the Illinois agility test and Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 2 compared to placebo.

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2025·Journal of bodywork and movement therapies·Somaieh Hatami, Maryam Ebrahimi, Abuzar Jorbonian

Effects of sodium bicarbonate and carbohydrate intake after 14-h fasting on anaerobic performance and muscular endurance: A randomized placebo-controlled trial.

RCTn = 14Physical Performance Recovery

RCT with 14 trained men evaluating the effects of 14-h fasting and pre-exercise sodium bicarbonate and carbohydrate intake on anaerobic performance and muscular endurance. Sodium bicarbonate supplementation increased anaerobic power by 21% and reduced fatigue by 37%, though it caused mild gastrointestinal discomfort.

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2025·Physiological reports·Jason Siegler, Brooke Butterick, Raul Freire, et al

Exploring the effects of outdoor physical work in the heat, with or without sodium bicarbonate supplementation, on markers of acute kidney injury.

RCTn = 14

RCT investigating the effect of sodium bicarbonate supplementation on markers of acute kidney injury during 2-hour outdoor work sessions in the heat. Despite inducing alkalosis, no changes were observed in markers of kidney injury. Participants experienced lower perceived effort despite elevated core temperature and heart rate.

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2025·International journal of sports physiology and performance·Robyn A X J Martin, Xiaolin Yang, Lars R McNaughton

Individual and Combined Effects of Sodium Bicarbonate and Sodium Citrate Supplementation on High-Intensity Exercise Performance in Highly Trained Female CrossFit Athletes.

RCTn = 10Physical Performance

RCT comparing the effects of sodium bicarbonate, sodium citrate, and their combination on high-intensity exercise performance in 10 trained female CrossFit athletes. Sodium bicarbonate improved extracellular buffering capacity and exercise performance compared to sodium citrate and placebo.

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2025·European journal of applied physiology·Abdulaziz A Masoud, Zidong Li, Michael R Deyhle, et al

Acute sodium bicarbonate supplementation reduces the increase in markers of acute kidney injury during physical work in the heat.

RCTn = 8

RCT with 8 participants testing acute sodium bicarbonate supplementation during physical work in the heat. Sodium bicarbonate reduced the increase in markers of acute kidney injury compared to placebo, suggesting it may help mitigate AKI risk.

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2025·Nutrients·Heather M Logan Sprenger, Temisia van Biljouw, David J Bentley

Feasibility of Sodium Bicarbonate Ingestion in Artistic Swimming Performances.

RCTn = 7Physical Performance

The study evaluated the feasibility of sodium bicarbonate supplementation in elite adolescent female artistic swimmers. Sodium bicarbonate significantly elevated blood pH and bicarbonate levels, improved propulsion, and reduced perceived exertion during performance, with mild gastrointestinal symptoms reported.

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2024·Journal of science and medicine in sport·Krzysztof Durkalec-Michalski, Paulina M Nowaczyk, Bryan Saunders, et al

Sex-dependent responses to acute sodium bicarbonate different dose treatment: A randomized double-blind crossover study.

RCTn = 30Physical Performance

This double-blind randomized placebo-controlled crossover study examined the effects of different doses of sodium bicarbonate on blood bicarbonate kinetics and gastrointestinal upset in male and female athletes. Significant gender and treatment interactions were found for changes in blood bicarbonate levels and power output during the Wingate Anaerobic Test. Sodium bicarbonate had no significant impact on Wall Balls and Burpees performance, and higher doses resulted in more gastrointestinal upset.

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2024·International journal of sports physiology and performance·Carmen Ferragut, Paola Gonzalo-Encabo, Álvaro López-Samanes, et al

Effect of Acute Sodium Bicarbonate and Caffeine Coingestion on Repeated-Sprint Performance in Recreationally Trained Individuals: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

RCTn = 25Physical Performance

RCT with 25 trained participants examining the effect of acute coingestion of sodium bicarbonate and caffeine on repeated-sprint performance. Both substances improved performance individually, but coingestion did not produce a synergistic effect.

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2024·Research in sports medicine (Print)·Ricardo Augusto Silva de Souza, Gabriel Barreto, Peterson Adriano Alves Freire, et al

Sodium bicarbonate improved CrossFit® Benchmark Fran, but not subsequent 500 m rowing performance.

RCTn = 17Physical Performance

RCT with 17 Advanced CrossFit®-trained athletes evaluating sodium bicarbonate supplementation on physical performance. Sodium bicarbonate improved time to complete the CrossFit® benchmark Fran but did not enhance subsequent 500 m rowing performance.

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2024·European journal of applied physiology·Eli Spencer Shannon, Amanda Regnier, Ben Dobson, et al

The effect of sodium bicarbonate mini-tablets ingested in a carbohydrate hydrogel system on 40 km cycling time trial performance and metabolism in trained male cyclists.

RCTn = 14Physical Performance

RCT with 14 trained male cyclists testing sodium bicarbonate ingestion via a carbohydrate hydrogel system on 40 km cycling time trial performance. Sodium bicarbonate improved performance and increased blood buffering capacity compared to placebo, with minimal gastrointestinal symptoms.

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2024·International journal of sports physiology and performance·William H Gurton, Lilly Dabin, Steven Marshall

No Effect of Individualized Sodium Bicarbonate Supplementation on 200-m or 400-m Freestyle-Swimming Time-Trial Performance in Well-Trained Athletes.

RCTn = 13Physical Performance -

RCT investigating the effect of individualized sodium bicarbonate supplementation on 200-m and 400-m freestyle swimming time-trial performance in 13 well-trained swimmers. Sodium bicarbonate did not improve completion times compared to placebo, although it elevated blood lactate and reduced perceived exertion.

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2024·European journal of applied physiology·S Aktitiz, Ş N Koşar, H H Turnagöl

Effects of acute and multi-day low-dose sodium bicarbonate intake on high-intensity endurance exercise performance in male recreational cyclists.

RCTn = 12Physical Performance -

RCT with 12 male recreational cyclists comparing acute and multi-day low-dose sodium bicarbonate intake on high-intensity endurance exercise performance. Both protocols improved pre-exercise bicarbonate concentrations, but neither significantly enhanced time-to-exhaustion compared to placebo.

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2024·Journal of applied physiology (Bethesda, Md. : 1985)·Seth F McCarthy, Derek P D Bornath, Jessica A L Tucker, et al

Greater lactate accumulation does not alter peripheral concentrations of key appetite-regulating neuropeptides.

RCTn = 12

This study used a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized crossover design to explore the role of sodium bicarbonate supplementation on lactate's effect on appetite-regulating neuropeptides during high-intensity interval training. The study found that sodium bicarbonate increased blood lactate levels post-exercise but did not alter acylated ghrelin, appetite perceptions, or peripheral concentrations of neuropeptides compared to placebo.

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2024·Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.)·Lewis A Gough, S Andy Sparks

The Effects of a Novel Sodium Bicarbonate Ingestion System on Repeated 4 km Cycling Time Trial Performance in Well-Trained Male Cyclists.

RCTn = 10Physical Performance Recovery

RCT investigating the effects of a novel sodium bicarbonate product (M-SB) on repeated 4 km cycling time trials in well-trained male cyclists. M-SB ingestion improved performance and recovery of acid-base balance between bouts, with minimal gastrointestinal discomfort.

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2024·International journal of sport nutrition and exercise metabolism·William H Gurton, Lewis A Gough, Jason C Siegler, et al

Oral but Not Topical Sodium Bicarbonate Improves Repeated Sprint Performance During Simulated Soccer Match Play Exercise in Collegiate Athletes.

RCTn = 10Physical Performance

This study investigated the effect of oral and topical sodium bicarbonate on soccer-specific performance in 10 collegiate male soccer players. Oral sodium bicarbonate improved repeated sprint performance during simulated soccer exercise, likely due to enhanced blood buffering capacity and regulation of strong ion concentration. Topical application did not show the same performance benefits.

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2024·Nutrients·Josh W Newbury, Matthew Cole, Adam L Kelly, et al

Neither an Individualised Nor a Standardised Sodium Bicarbonate Strategy Improved Performance in High-Intensity Repeated Swimming, or a Subsequent 200 m Swimming Time Trial in Highly Trained Female Swimmers.

RCTn = 6Physical Performance -

RCT with six highly trained female swimmers testing sodium bicarbonate ingestion strategies (individualised vs standardised) on swimming performance. Both strategies increased blood bicarbonate levels but did not improve performance in repeated sprint swimming or a 200 m time trial.

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2023·Critical care medicine·Ary Serpa Neto, Tomoko Fujii, Mairead McNamara, et al

Sodium Bicarbonate for Metabolic Acidosis in the ICU: Results of a Pilot Randomized Double-Blind Clinical Trial.

RCTn = 30

Pilot randomized double-blind trial in eight ICUs assessing sodium bicarbonate for metabolic acidosis. Sodium bicarbonate group showed shorter time to base excess and pH correction, and lower recurrence of metabolic acidosis compared to placebo. No adverse events reported.

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2023·International journal of sport nutrition and exercise metabolism·Domingo Jesús Ramos-Campo, Francisco Javier López-Román, Silvia Pérez-Piñero, et al

Effects of Ketone Monoester and Bicarbonate Co-Ingestion on Cycling Performance in WorldTour Cyclists.

RCTn = 28Physical Performance

Randomized study on 28 WorldTour cyclists investigating the effect of acute supplementation of ketone monoester and NaHCO3 on cycling performance. The study found that co-ingestion enhanced 8-min time-trial cycling performance by 3.1% with increased β-hydroxybutyrate blood concentration and changes in anion gap and HCO3- levels.

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2023·European journal of applied physiology·Alessandro Moura Zagatto, Vithor Hugo Fialho Lopes, Yago Medeiros Dutra, et al

Sodium bicarbonate induces alkalosis, but improves high-intensity cycling performance only when participants expect a beneficial effect: a placebo and nocebo study.

RCTn = 15Physical Performance

This randomized double-blind crossover study investigated the effects of sodium bicarbonate intake on high-intensity cycling performance with different expectations set by verbal and visual information. Despite inducing alkalosis, sodium bicarbonate did not significantly affect performance or neuromuscular fatigue indicators. However, performance improved when participants were informed of a likely ergogenic effect, suggesting a placebo effect.

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2023·Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition·William H Gurton, Jordanne Greally, Karolina Chudzikiewicz, et al

Beneficial effects of oral and topical sodium bicarbonate during a battery of team sport-specific exercise tests in recreationally trained male athletes.

RCTn = 14Physical Performance

This study examined the effects of oral and topical sodium bicarbonate during team sport-specific exercise tests in 14 recreationally trained male athletes. Oral sodium bicarbonate improved repeated sprint and Yo-Yo IR2 performance, while topical application showed similar improvements in sprint times but not in Yo-Yo IR2 distance or blood acid-base balance.

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2023·American journal of physiology. Regulatory, integrative and comparative physiology·Akira Katagiri, Naoto Fujii, Kohei Dobashi, et al

Sodium bicarbonate reduces ventilation without altering core temperature threshold or sensitivity of hyperthermia-induced hyperventilation in exercising humans.

RCTn = 13Physical Performance

RCT with 13 healthy young males ingesting sodium bicarbonate or sodium chloride before cycling in heat. Sodium bicarbonate reduced ventilation during exercise without altering core temperature threshold or sensitivity of hyperthermia-induced hyperventilation.

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2023·Medicine and science in sports and exercise·Nicholas K Leach, Nathan P Hilton, Daniel Tinnion, et al

Sodium Bicarbonate Ingestion in a Fasted State Improves 16.1-km Cycling Time-Trial Performance.

RCTn = 10Physical Performance

RCT with 10 trained male cyclists testing sodium bicarbonate ingestion before a 16.1-km cycling time trial. Sodium bicarbonate significantly improved performance time compared to placebo, with lower gastrointestinal symptoms observed with enteric capsules compared to gelatine.

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2020·Nutrients·Mirjam Limmer, Juliane Sonntag, Markus de Marées, et al

Effects of an Alkalizing or Acidizing Diet on High-Intensity Exercise Performance under Normoxic and Hypoxic Conditions in Physically Active Adults: A Randomized, Crossover Trial.

RCTn = 15Physical Performance -

Randomized crossover trial investigating the effects of an alkalizing or acidizing diet on high-intensity exercise performance in normoxia and hypoxia. Despite significant increases in blood buffer capacity with the alkalizing diet, there were no differences in anaerobic performance parameters between the alkalizing and acidizing conditions.

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2014·Journal of animal physiology and animal nutrition·A Pérez-Ruchel, J L Repetto, C Cajarville

Use of NaHCO3 and MgO as additives for sheep fed only pasture for a restricted period of time per day: effects on intake, digestion and the rumen environment.

RCTn = 12

The study investigated the effects of NaHCO3 and MgO buffer addition on intake and digestive utilization in wethers fed pasture for a restricted period. Buffer addition increased water intake, Na urinary output, and ruminal pH, while decreasing ammonia concentration and ruminal activity, as evidenced by lower gas production in vitro.

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2013·International journal of sport nutrition and exercise metabolism·Bryan Saunders, Craig Sale, Roger C Harris, et al

Effect of sodium bicarbonate and Beta-alanine on repeated sprints during intermittent exercise performed in hypoxia.

RCTn = 36Physical Performance

RCT investigating the effects of sodium bicarbonate and beta-alanine on repeated sprints during hypoxic exercise. Sodium bicarbonate showed mixed effects on mean power output, while beta-alanine and cosupplementation had no significant effect.

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2010·International journal of sport nutrition and exercise metabolism·Frankie Tan, Ted Polglaze, Gregory Cox, et al

Effects of induced alkalosis on simulated match performance in elite female water polo players.

RCTn = 12Physical Performance -

This study investigated the effects of sodium bicarbonate ingestion on simulated water polo match performance in 12 elite female players. Despite increasing extracellular pH and bicarbonate levels, sodium bicarbonate did not substantially enhance intermittent-sprint performance.

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2010·Journal of strength and conditioning research·Jason C Siegler, Kristian Hirscher

Sodium bicarbonate ingestion and boxing performance.

RCTn = 10Physical Performance

RCT with 10 amateur boxers testing the ergogenic potential of sodium bicarbonate ingestion on boxing performance. Sodium bicarbonate loading improved punch efficacy during 4 rounds of sparring, indicating enhanced physical performance.

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2005·Medicine and science in sports and exercise·David Bishop, Brett Claudius

Effects of induced metabolic alkalosis on prolonged intermittent-sprint performance.

RCTn = 7Physical Performance

RCT with seven female team-sport athletes assessing the effects of sodium bicarbonate ingestion on prolonged intermittent-sprint performance. Sodium bicarbonate ingestion improved plasma bicarbonate levels and showed a trend toward improved total work in the second half of the sprint test.

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1995·The Journal of international medical research·T Nakamura, K Takebe, K Kudoh, et al

Effects of pancreatic digestive enzymes, sodium bicarbonate, and a proton pump inhibitor on steatorrhoea caused by pancreatic diseases.

RCTn = 45

RCT involving 45 patients with pancreatic steatorrhoea, divided into four groups receiving sodium bicarbonate, high-lipase pancreatin, commercial pancreatic enzyme preparations, or omeprazole. Pancreatic digestive enzyme preparation was more effective than sodium bicarbonate and proton-pump inhibitors in reducing faecal fat excretion.

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1992·Journal of sports sciences·J Linderman, L Kirk, J Musselman, et al

The effects of sodium bicarbonate and pyridoxine-alpha-ketoglutarate on short-term maximal exercise capacity.

RCTn = 8Physical Performance -

RCT investigating the effects of pyridoxine-alpha-ketoglutarate (PAK) and sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) on short-term maximal exercise capacity in eight well-trained male cyclists. The study found no significant differences in exercise performance between treatments, suggesting that neither PAK nor NaHCO3 increased short-term maximal exercise capacity.

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2026·The American journal of emergency medicine·Ryota Inokuchi, Akinori Maeda, Yohei Komaru, et al

Severe metabolic alkalosis and hypernatremia induced by excessive sodium bicarbonate intake: A case report and literature review.

Case report

Case report of a man in his 30s who developed severe metabolic alkalosis and hypernatremia after ingesting excessive sodium bicarbonate for intestinal cleansing. Systematic review of 78 cases highlights risks of sodium bicarbonate toxicity, with acute ingestion linked to gastric rupture and chronic use causing metabolic alkalosis.

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