TGJB wrote:

Bases (like sodium
> bicarbonate, originally used in "milkshakes"), neutralize
> lactic acid. Milkshakes are raceday drugs, and whatever
> they are putting in them now is much more effective than 5
> years ago.

Interesting, I thought milkshaking was to get oxygen into the horse. I know oxygen enters the bloodstream through the lungs, but don't see any reason why it can't be absorbed into the bloodstream via the stomach or intestine as oxygen or in compound form that breaks down into oxygen while in the blood. If they are introducing it as a base to counter lactic acid, the base would have to be picked up by the muscle where the latic acid builds up is my understanding. It may be, I did not know that. But, my biology is rudimentary and chemistry worse. My suspicion is some Vets have very good chemistry training.

Appreciate your insights I'll try and find the stories.

CtC

O.K. confirmed the bicarbonate reduces lactic acid. Thats apparently what its for.

"Sodium bicarbonate buffering has been suggested for people to neutralize lactate (lactic acid) buildup during high intensity weight training. The MAJOR problem is that since it is sodium bicarbonate, taking it will jack up your sodium levels incredibly. One teaspoon is something like twice the daily maximum and effective buffering requires a good bit more. We considered the idea of using Calcium Carbonate, but apparently bicarbonate is effective at a different pH range and CaCO3 would not have the same benefits. And remember, high sodium levels contribute directly to high blood pressure, which is not a good thing when training hard."
http://members.shaw.ca/bodybuilding/Muscles/Lactic_Acid.html



Post Edited (01-11-05 19:24)