Not sure about this guy, he throws lots of facts out without references, but he has a interesting breakdown of the bodies digestion of ASF.
TLDR: We used to get a bunch of bicarbonate from bones, blood, and interstitial fluid, but most modern zero-carb eaters are not consuming bones/blood/fluid from fresh animals. So this might be a deficiency
He wrote this editorial : https://doi.org/10.1136/openhrt-2021-001788 - Low-grade metabolic acidosis as a driver of insulin resistance
Summary:
Dr. James DiNicolantonio discusses the effects of a modern carnivore diet on acid-base balance in the body. He explains how the consumption of animal proteins and grains can increase acid load, while fruits and vegetables can neutralize this acidity. He details the physiological processes involved in acid excretion and introduces potential health issues stemming from a consistently acidic environment within the body, including negative impacts on kidney function, bone health, and muscle performance. He suggests that sodium and potassium bicarbonate supplementation may help neutralize the acid load from a carnivorous diet.
Key Points
Impact of Diet on Acid Load
The diet significantly affects the body's acid-base balance. Animal proteins and grains introduce an acid load due to sulfur-containing amino acids that oxidize to sulfuric acid, while fruits and vegetables counteract this effect, promoting alkalinity.
Urinary pH as an Indicator
The urinary pH can indicate acid retention in the body. A pH of 6.5 or less suggests that acids are being retained, which can lead to harmful physiological changes. Maintaining a neutral urinary pH is crucial for health.
Consequences of High Acid Load
A high acid diet can result in the breakdown of muscle and bone to excrete acid, leading to decreased kidney function, osteoporosis, and increased calcium loss. This chronic acidity can negatively affect overall health and lead to conditions like insulin resistance.
Role of Ammonia in Acid Excretion
The kidneys produce ammonia to help eliminate excess acid but relying on this process can be harmful, as ammonia is toxic to kidney cells. Chronic high protein intake may lead to kidney damage over time.
Benefits of Alkalinizing Agents
Supplementation with sodium or potassium bicarbonate can help neutralize acid loads, potentially improving kidney function, blood pressure, and bone health, especially in individuals with chronic kidney disease.
Historical Context of Bicarbonate Intake
Historically, human diets included sufficient bicarbonate through blood and bone consumption from freshly hunted animals. Modern diets lacking fresh meat intake may lead to a deficiency in bicarbonate, necessitating supplementation.
Exercise and Acidity
Excessive acidity during intense exercise can impair muscle function by affecting enzyme activity and muscle contractions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a balanced pH.