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Alkaline Minerals for Hydration and Athletic Performance
Acid buffering is an important issue when it comes to high-intensive anaerobic loads. The better the body tolerates and regulates (buffers) lactic acid, the longer a high-intensity performance can be sustained. The buffer capacity depends also on the hydration status of an athlete. Furthermore, a targeted soda-loading with Bicarb Caps enhances the buffering capacity in the blood (see also our soda-loading dosage protocol in PDF format). Also the intake of basic minerals has an interesting effect on athletic performance.
A study made athletes drink mineral-rich alkaline water (Heil, 2010). After only two weeks, 24-hour urine and blood showed a more alkaline environment. Although this indicated an increase in buffer capacity, physical performance was not measured. Besides the buffer capacity, the hydration status was also improved. Within one week after discontinuation of the alkaline mineral water consumption, the initial values were reached again.
In conclusion, it may be worth to try for athletes to optimize their hydration status and acid-base balance by regularly taking a basic mineral supplement instead of a short-term soda-loading before lactate-forming activities. The alkaline mineral powder blend Basic Minerals from SPONSER® contains a balanced combination of alkaline minerals, supports a normal acid-base balance and promotes hydration status. With calcium, magnesium, zinc and iron. Without added sugar and lactose-free.
Literature
Heil DP (2010): Acid-base balance and hydration status following consumption of mineral-based alkaline bottled water. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2010 Sep 13;7:29.
Author: Remo Jutzeler
Head R&D SPONSER SPORT FOOD
Ing. Applied Food Sciences UAS
MAS Nutrition & Health ETHZ
