Sodium Bicarbonate Supplementation in Combat Sports Athletes

The experimental procedure for each athlete included a 10-day NaHCO3 supplementation in a progressive-dose regimen in order to reduce the likelihood of gastrointestinal side effects (from 25 to 100 mg ∙ kg-1). NaHCO3 was administered in the form of unmarked disk-shaped tablets (Alkala T, SANUM, Poland). The tablets were ingested with at least 250 mL of water and could be either swallowed or dissolved in the mouth. On training days the supplements were taken in the morning, in the evening and 1.5 hours before training session. On rest days the supplements were taken in the morning, in the afternoon and in the evening.

The experimental procedure for each athlete included a 10-day placebo administration. Placebo was ingested with at least 250 mL of water. On training days the supplements were taken in the morning, in the evening and 1.5 hours before training session. On rest days the supplements were taken in the morning, in the afternoon and in the evening.