What Does It Mean?
- Metabolic acidosis is a condition characterized by an excess accumulation of acid in the body due to increased acid production, decreased acid excretion, or a loss of bicarbonate.
- It can result from chronic disease states, toxin exposure, poor kidney function, or imbalanced metabolic processes.
- Functional medicine focuses on identifying root causes, improving metabolic function, and restoring acid-base balance.
How Did We Get Here?
Root Causes & Contributing Factors:
- Impaired Kidney Function: The kidneys play a critical role in maintaining acid-base balance; dysfunction can lead to acid accumulation.
- Excessive Acid Production: Conditions such as lactic acidosis, ketoacidosis, or high-protein diets can contribute.
- Bicarbonate Loss: Chronic diarrhea, renal tubular acidosis, and certain medications can reduce bicarbonate levels.
- Toxin Accumulation: Heavy metals, alcohol, or drug toxicity can increase acid load.
- Poor Nutrient Status: Magnesium, potassium, and bicarbonate deficiencies may impair acid regulation.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Rapid, deep breathing (Kussmaul respirations).
- Fatigue, weakness, and confusion.
- Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.
- Headaches and dizziness.
- Muscle twitching or cramping.
- Increased heart rate or arrhythmias.
Lab Test Findings
The following lab tests help assess metabolic acidosis:
| Lab Test Name | Expected Changes | Optimal Range |
| Anion Gap | Increased | 7.00-12.00 mEq/L |
| Carbon Dioxide | Decreased | 25.00-35.00 mEq/L |
| Chloride | Increased | 100.00-106.00 mEq/L |
| Potassium | Increased | 4.0-4.50 mEq/L |
How Do We Treat It?
Treatment focuses on restoring acid-base balance, supporting kidney and metabolic function, 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 |
| 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 Alkalizing Foods: Consume leafy greens, vegetables, and fruits to balance pH.
- Monitor Protein Intake: Avoid excessive dietary protein, which can contribute to acid production.
- Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration helps the kidneys regulate acid-base balance.
- Reduce Processed Foods & Sugar: Processed foods can contribute to systemic inflammation and metabolic dysfunction.
- Assess Kidney & Liver Function: Support detox pathways to reduce metabolic acid buildup.