Effect of Carbohydrate-Electrolyte Solution Including Bicarbonate Ion Ad Libitum Ingestion on Urine Bicarbonate Retention during Mountain Trekking: A Randomized, Controlled Pilot Study

A pilot study on Mount Fuji demonstrates that a carbohydrate-electrolyte solution containing bicarbonate ions significantly increases urine bicarbonate retention during mountain trekking to 3000 meters, compared to tap water. This suggests that the bicarbonate buffering system is enhanced with such supplementation, potentially offering benefits for endurance and altitude adaptation in lowlanders. The randomized, double-blind study involved 16 healthy participants who consumed either a bicarbonate-enriched solution or tap water while climbing, with energy expenditure and heart rate monitored continuously. Results showed a higher bicarbonate balance in the treatment group (−0.37 ± 0.77 mmol) versus the control group (−2.23 ± 0.96 mmol), highlighting the potential of this approach for high-altitude trekking.

Horiuchi, M., Hasegawa, T., & Nose, H. (2021). Effect of Carbohydrate-Electrolyte Solution Including Bicarbonate Ion Ad Libitum Ingestion on Urine Bicarbonate Retention during Mountain Trekking: A Randomized, Controlled Pilot Study. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(4), 1441. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18041441