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Total carbon dioxide is measured as an indicator of serum bicarbonate and pH balance within the body. Total carbon dioxide is often used in consideration with other biomarkers to help evaluate potential acid-base disturbances. (source)
The bicarbonate buffering system, of which total CO2 is the primary measurable component, is the body's first line of defense against pH fluctuations. This system works in concert with the lungs and kidneys to maintain blood pH within the narrow 7.35–7.45 range required for enzymatic activity, oxygen delivery, and cellular metabolism. Deviations in total CO2 signal disruptions in buffering capacity, which directly compromises exercise tolerance and recovery. (source, source)
Low serum carbon dioxide levels can be influenced by physiological factors related to kidney function and respiratory health, as these organs help regulate the body's acid-base balance. From a nutritional standpoint, suboptimal intake of fruits and vegetables can also contribute to decreased serum carbon dioxide levels. (source, source, source)
Potential Performance Impact:
Prioritize dark leafy green vegetables: Vegetables are a source of dietary base, helping to reduce dietary acidic load. (source) Including vegetables has been shown to increase total carbon dioxide concentrations. (source)
Protocol: Consume at least two servings of dark leafy green vegetables daily. One serving examples: Spinach (1 cup), Kale(1 cup), Broccoli (1 cup), Bok Choy (1 cup), Collard Greens (1 cup)
Supplement with Green Drinks: Vegetables are a source of dietary base, helping to reduce dietary acidic load. (source) Including vegetables has been shown to increase total carbon dioxide concentrations. (source)
Protocol: Drink one serving of a greens drink with an alkaline ingredient, such as kale, spirulina, and wheatgrass, daily.
Elevated serum carbon dioxide levels can stem from physiological factors such as impaired lung function, where the lungs are unable to adequately remove carbon dioxide from the body. Additionally, nutritional factors like excessive consumption of acidic foods can contribute to higher carbon dioxide levels. (source, source, source)
Potential Performance Impact:
Prioritize high-quality protein: During protein digestion, amino acids are broken down and utilized for energy, which then generates carbon dioxide as a byproduct. Adequate protein intake supports the metabolic production of CO2 needed to maintain bicarbonate reserves. (source, source)
Protocol: Eat 0.8 to 1.0 g of protein per pound of body weight per day. One serving examples: Eggs (3 large eggs), Chicken Breast (3.5 oz), Beef (lean cuts) (3.5 oz), Salmon (3 oz), Pork (lean cuts) (3.5 oz), Tofu (3.5 oz).
Perform breathwork and/or meditation: Slowed breathing exercises have been shown to support markers of blood carbon dioxide levels. Breathwork can help improve breathing efficiency and promote the balance of carbon dioxide. (source, source)
Protocol: Sit down and calmly focus on your breath while box breathing for up to five minutes.
Supplement with a quality protein source: During protein digestion, amino acids are broken down and utilized for energy, which then generates carbon dioxide as a byproduct. Supplemental protein supports sustained metabolic CO2 generation. (source, source)
Protocol: Supplement with 20 to 40 g of quality protein with a goal of consuming 0.8 to 1.2 g of protein per pound of body weight per day.
