Metabolic Alkalosis
What Does It Mean?
- Metabolic alkalosis is a condition characterized by an excess accumulation of bicarbonate in the body, leading to an increased pH level in the blood.
- It can result from excessive bicarbonate intake, loss of stomach acids, or underlying metabolic imbalances.
- Functional medicine aims to identify and correct the root causes while restoring proper acid-base balance.
How Did We Get Here?
Root Causes & Contributing Factors:
- Excessive Vomiting or Gastric Suctioning: Loss of stomach acid disrupts the body's pH balance.
- Diuretic Use: Certain diuretics increase bicarbonate retention and deplete potassium levels.
- Electrolyte Imbalances: Potassium and chloride deficiencies contribute to alkalosis.
- Excessive Bicarbonate Intake: Overconsumption of antacids or bicarbonate supplements can drive alkalosis.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Excess aldosterone or cortisol can increase bicarbonate retention.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Confusion, dizziness, and irritability.
- Muscle twitching, cramps, or weakness.
- Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.
- Numbness or tingling in the extremities.
- Shallow or irregular breathing.
- Cardiac arrhythmias due to potassium imbalance.
Lab Test Findings
The following lab tests help assess metabolic alkalosis:
| Lab Test Name | Expected Changes | Optimal Range |
| Calcium | Altered | 8.90-9.50 mg/dL |
| Carbon Dioxide | Increased | 25.00-30.00 mEq/L |
| Chloride | Decreased | 100.00-106.00 mEq/L |
| Potassium | Decreased | 4.00-4.50 mEq/L |
How Do We Treat It?
Treatment focuses on restoring acid-base balance, correcting electrolyte deficiencies, and addressing underlying causes.
Supplement Protocol
| Supplement | Function | Dosage & Frequency |
| Advanced Vita-Biotic R | Supports immune response and metabolic function | 1 capsule with food, daily |
| Endura | Supports hydration and electrolyte balance | 1 packet with or without food, three times daily |
| D-Mannose Powder | Supports kidney and urinary tract health | 1 tsp of powder with food, twice daily |
| Vita Microbe | Promotes gut microbiome balance | 3 capsules with or without food, daily |
| Vita Buffered C Powder | Helps neutralize acidity and supports antioxidant function | ¼ scoop of powder with food, twice daily |
| CoQ-10 300 mg | Supports cellular energy production and metabolic health | 2 capsules with food, daily |
| V-Inflamma | Reduces inflammation and oxidative stress | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| V-Pax | Supports metabolic and immune health | 2 capsules with food, twice daily |
| Vita B Methyl | Enhances energy production and metabolic function | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| Vita Defense | Strengthens immune system resilience | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| Vita DIM | Supports hormone and metabolic balance | 2 capsules with or without food, daily |
| Vita-Candid | Supports microbial balance and detoxification | 2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
| Vita-Digestyzyme | Enhances digestion and nutrient absorption | 2 capsule 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
| Vita-Glutathione | Provides antioxidant support for detoxification | 1 capsule with or without food, daily |
| Vita-Uric Pro | Supports healthy uric acid levels and promotes joint and kidney health | 3 capsules without food, daily |
| Magnesium | Supports cellular energy and acid-base balance | 2 capsules with or without food, daily |
| Gluta Protect | Supports gut integrity and immune function | 1 scoop of powder without food, daily |
| SBI Powder | Enhances gut immune function and inflammation response | 1 scoop of powder in cold liquids without food, daily |
| V-Collagen | Supports connective tissue health and cellular repair | 1 scoop of powder without food, daily |
| Vita-Biotic | Supports immune and gut microbiome health | 4 capsule without food, daily |
| Vita-Flux | Enhances vascular health and circulation | 2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
Additional Lifestyle Interventions:
- Increase Potassium & Chloride Intake: Consume potassium-rich foods (bananas, avocados) and chloride sources (sea salt) to restore balance.
- Reduce Excess Bicarbonate Use: Avoid overuse of antacids and baking soda.
- Correct Underlying Imbalances: Evaluate hormonal levels, kidney function, and medication effects.
- Hydration & Electrolyte Support: Use electrolyte-rich fluids to restore pH balance.
- Monitor Symptoms & Re-Test: Follow up with lab testing to ensure balance is restored.