Does the Body Use Bases to Neutralize Lactic Acid?

💡 The Answer

• After intense exercise, lactic acid builds up in muscles, lowering local pH and causing fatigue.
• The bicarbonate buffer system in blood uses bicarbonate ions (HCO3−) to neutralize excess acid.
• Bicarbonate reacts with lactic acid to form carbonic acid, which dissociates into water and CO2 exhaled via lungs.
• This base buffering helps return pH to normal levels, aiding recovery.