Explanation
Arterial pH provides insight into the acid-base balance of the blood and cardiorespiratory function. (source)
Low
Low arterial pH, often referred to as acidosis, can be influenced by physiological factors such as impaired lung or kidney function, as these two organs are responsible for regulating the body's acid-base balance. From a nutritional perspective, excessive intake of acidic foods or beverages and inadequate consumption of alkaline-forming foods like fruits and vegetables can contribute to acidic conditions in the body. (source, source, source)
Optimization
Prioritize high-quality protein: During protein digestion, amino acids are broken down and utilized for energy which then generates carbon dioxide as a byproduct. (source) Recommendation: 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)
Engage in creative pursuits: Creative arts have been shown to optimize serum carbon dioxide. (source) Engagement in creative arts, including music and art therapy, significantly reduces stress, which can cause rapid or shallow breathing resulting in decreased carbon dioxide levels. (source, source) Reducing stress can indirectly improve carbon dioxide levels. Recommendation: Incorporate creative activities, like painting and crocheting, into weekly life.
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. (source) Recommendation: 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.
High
High arterial pH, often referred to as alkalosis, can be influenced by physiological factors such as hyperventilation, where excessive breathing leads to the elimination of too much carbon dioxide. Nutritionally, consuming an excess of alkaline-forming foods like fruits and vegetables may also contribute to elevated arterial pH levels. (source, source, source)
Optimization
Incorporate salt: Sodium intake has been shown to decrease the partial pressure of carbon dioxide. (source) Sodium interacts with proteins in the kidney to increase bicarbonate reabsorption. (source, source) Bicarbonate is the primary source of total carbon dioxide. Reducing bicarbonate levels reduces serum carbon dioxide. Recommendation: Incorporate salty foods or add a pinch of salt to meals.
Perform breathwork and/or meditation: Slowed breathing exercises have been shown to decrease markers of blood carbon dioxide levels. (source) Breathwork can help improve breathing efficiency and promote the removal of carbon dioxide. (source) Recommendation: Sit down and calmly focus on your breath while box breathing for up to five minutes.
Supplement with electrolytes: Sodium intake has been shown to help decrease the partial pressure of carbon dioxide. (source) Sodium, a primary ingredient in electrolyte supplements, interacts with proteins in the kidney to increase bicarbonate reabsorption. (source, source) Bicarbonate is the primary source of total carbon dioxide. Reducing bicarbonate levels reduces serum carbon dioxide. Recommendation: Supplement with a variety of electrolytes with at least 500 mg of sodium.
Associated Biomarkers
