NCSF Sport Nutrition Specialist Certification Practice Test – Complete Exam Prep

Sodium bicarbonate supplementation is particularly beneficial for high-intensity endurance activities because it helps to buffer the acidity that accumulates in muscles during intense exercise. When engaging in high-intensity efforts, lactic acid builds up, leading to a decrease in pH within the muscles, which can contribute to fatigue and diminished performance. By supplementing with sodium bicarbonate, athletes can enhance their ability to maintain a more neutral pH, thereby delaying the onset of muscle fatigue and improving overall performance during sustained high-intensity efforts.

In contrast, low-intensity activities do not produce significant amounts of lactic acid, so the buffering effect of sodium bicarbonate would be less impactful. Similarly, high-volume training and recovery sessions typically focus on building aerobic capacity and facilitating recovery, where sodium bicarbonate’s primary benefits are less pronounced compared to situations where immediate performance during prolonged high-intensity effort is a priority.