Disorders of acid-base balance: symptomatic manifestations, therapeutic interventions, and the nutritional role in systemic pH modulation – a comprehensive guide
Sophia Williams
2026-03-20
3 min. read
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The human organism operates as a sophisticated biochemical network wherein water—comprising over 50% of total body mass—serves as the fundamental solvent for metabolic transformations. The ideal conditions for these biochemical reactions are contingent upon the precise modulation of hydrogen ion concentration (pH) within bodily fluids, a process that sustains the homeostatic equilibrium essential for cellular integrity and the proper execution of physiological functions.
Metabolic acid
Metabolic acid is an acid-base imbalance characterized by a primary excess of acids or a lack of principles (HCO3-). The consequences of an untreated disorder are often an increased catabolism of proteins and fats, an overactivity of enzymes involved in oxygen-free breathing, or a decreased sensitivity of the blood vessels to noradrenal activity.
The acidity of the symptoms
Symptoms of mild metabolic acidosis may be subtle, or they may be accompanied only by nausea and/or vomiting. In acute acidity a common symptom is the so-called Kussmaul breath described as a chased dog's breath. Electrolyte disorders (e.g. hyperkaliemia), disturbances of consciousness, thirst, chest pain or dehydration may also be characteristic.
Acid is a treatment
One of the basic diagnostic tests of metabolic acid is blood gasometry, the results of which inform us, among others, about the concentration of hydrogen ions and the pH of the blood. The assessment of these parameters allows us to determine the degree of acid-base disorder in the body.
Acid in the diet
Modern human diets are characterised by insufficient consumption of essentially unsaturated fatty acids (NFCs), vegetables and fruits as compared to high-protein animal products, saturated fats and sodium chloride. Both fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of potassium salts and citric anions, which as a result of metabolic changes exhibit an allylic effect. Early clinical studies suggest that a reduction in the intake of animal protein-rich products in favour of animal-rich foods from plant-based products.
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