Sodium bicarbonate
Fact check on enteric-coated capsules – why intestinal release makes a difference
How our digestive system deals with capsules The human digestive tract is a highly complex system that precisely coordinates chemical, enzymatic, and mechanical processes. Food and ingested substances pass through several stages with distinctly different conditions. The stomach is a highly acidic environment, with a pH between 1 and 3. This environment is necessary for denaturing proteins and killing pathogens. However, many sensitive substances, including certain enzymes, vitamins, or plant extracts, can be rapidly inactivated or chemically altered in this environment. In the small intestine , on the other hand, the pH is between 6 and 8 – significantly milder and slightly alkaline. This is where many micronutrients, minerals, and bioactive compounds are absorbed . Therefore, the site of release plays a crucial role: If an active ingredient or nutrient is released too early, i.e., in the stomach, its stability or bioavailability may decrease. However, if the release occurs specifically in the small intestine, sensitive molecules can better preserve their structure and function. Examples of gastric acid sensitive substances : Enzymes (e.g. bromelain, papain) Bases or bicarbonate-containing compounds Probiotic microorganisms Certain plant substances and polyphenols For these groups of substances, enteric-coated capsules are technologically useful in order to bypass the stomach and only release their contents in the small intestine. What does “enteric” mean? The term enteric-coated refers to a formulation or capsule shell that is designed in such a way that it does not dissolve in the acidic environment of the stomach , but only in the neutral to alkaline environment of the intestine . Functional principle This effect is achieved through special materials or pH-sensitive polymers . The capsule shell remains intact in the stomach because it is insoluble in the stomach acid. Only when the pH rises—typically from around pH 5.5 to 6.8—does the shell dissolve, releasing the contents. Materials and technologies In pharmaceutical and nutritional practice, various substances are used for enteric coating, such as: Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC) Cellulose acetate phthalate (CAP) Plant polymers based on alginates or starch These materials are chemically inert , meaning they do not react with the capsule contents and serve solely for protection and time-controlled release. Advantage for sensitive substances The enteric-coated technology protects sensitive ingredients from stomach acid and enzymes. At the same time, it enables targeted delivery to the site where absorption is physiologically most beneficial—the small intestine. The DRcaps® technology in detail One of the best-known modern variants is DRcaps® technology . Developed by Lonza (Capsugel) , it is one of the most widely used plant-based capsule solutions for dietary supplements. What are DRcaps®? DRcaps® are made from hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC) , a plant-based polymer that is completely vegan and free of synthetic coatings. These capsules require no additional coatings – the enteric-coating effect is achieved solely by the material structure of the capsule wall . How it works The DRcaps® shell swells slightly in acidic environments, yet remains closed and stable. It only dissolves after a certain period of time—in laboratory tests, approximately 45 to 60 minutes —and as the pH increases. The release is thus delayed and pH-dependent . In vitro studies have shown that DRcaps® reliably retain the contents in gastric juice and only release them under conditions similar to those in the small intestine. Benefits according to research Protect sensitive ingredients from stomach acid Delayed release for targeted absorption Plant-based alternative to gelatin capsules No additional chemical coatings necessary From a scientific point of view, this is not an “active” effect, but a technological innovation that controls the location and time of release. Scientific background – why release in the gut is crucial The physiological relevance of release control arises from the structure of the digestive system. Most nutrients, vitamins, and bioactive molecules are absorbed through the mucosa of the small intestine. Transport mechanisms in the intestine Specialized transport proteins in the enterocytes (intestinal cells) act here to transfer substances into the bloodstream. Many substances must remain intact and chemically stable for this to happen – something that is often not guaranteed in the acidic environment of the stomach. Sensitive substances Enzymes, probiotic microorganisms, and certain polyphenols lose their structure upon contact with stomach acid. Delayed release can protect these substances and ensure that they only become active where their absorption or effect is intended. Research and pharmaceutical technology Enteric-coated systems have been established in pharmaceutical formulation research for decades. Studies in the European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology Europe show that pH-dependent release systems can significantly influence the stability and bioavailability of many substances. The transfer of these findings to the field of nutritional supplements is increasingly taking place from the perspective of technology optimization – not therapeutic effect. Gastric acid resistance vs. normal capsules – a comparison Characteristic Regular gelatin capsule Gastro-resistant capsule (e.g. DRcaps®) material Gelatin (animal) Plant-based HPMC resolution Fast (in the stomach, < 10 minutes) Delayed (45–60 minutes, pH dependent) Protection of sensitive substances Small amount High Release site stomach small intestine Typical application Insensitive materials Acid-labile or pH-sensitive The choice of capsule technology therefore depends on the nature of the substance . An enteric-coated form is particularly useful if the ingredients: could be inactivated by stomach acid, require absorption in the small intestine, or require delayed release. However, for many vitamins and minerals, such technology is not absolutely necessary . What is crucial is the substance-specific tolerability and stability . Quality and transparency in capsule technologies As with all technological systems in the food or pharmaceutical industry, quality assurance plays a central role. Purity and safety Capsule materials are subject to the specifications of the European Pharmacopoeia and must meet defined criteria regarding purity, moisture content, stability and migration . Labeling and standards Manufacturers are required to disclose the composition of their capsules. Plant-based variants such as HPMC are often tested with ISO or GMP certificates . The EFSA and FDA have also classified HPMC as "Generally Recognized as Safe" (GRAS). Traceability and laboratory analyses Transparency is achieved when companies publish certificates of analysis (CoA) and laboratory reports . These documents prove that each batch has been tested for microbiological purity, heavy metals, and physical properties . At BlueVitality, for example, the use of vegan DRcaps® stands for technological precision and tested purity – not as a promise of effectiveness, but as an expression of scientific diligence. Conclusion – Technology in the service of compatibility Enteric-coated capsules are a technologically sound method for protecting sensitive substances and releasing them specifically in the intestine . Systems such as DRcaps® utilize plant-based polymers and pH-dependent mechanisms to enable delayed release – a concept that has long been established in pharmaceutical technology. Not every substance requires this protection, but for pH-labile or enzyme-sensitive substances, it offers a clear functional advantage . It is crucial that such technologies are developed and tested in a scientifically transparent manner – in accordance with quality standards and physiological understanding.
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Sodium bicarbonate in the body – the science behind acid-base balance
Why acid-base balance is so crucial The so-called acid-base balance describes the physiological state in which the concentration of hydrogen ions (H⁺) in the body is maintained within narrow limits. This balance is a prerequisite for almost all biochemical processes – from enzyme activity and cellular metabolism to oxygen binding in the blood. The pH value serves as a measure of the acidity of a solution. A pH of 7 is considered neutral; values below this are acidic, and above this are basic. The human body has very different pH ranges depending on the compartment: Blood plasma: about 7.35–7.45 (slightly alkaline) Gastric juice: 1-2 (highly acidic, for digesting proteins) Small intestine: 7–8 (alkaline, for enzymatic digestion) These differences demonstrate that the body precisely adjusts pH values to its respective function. A deviation in blood pH of just 0.1 units can significantly influence metabolic activity. To ensure this stability, the organism relies on several buffer systems and control circuits – in particular the lungs , the kidneys and the bicarbonate system . Sodium bicarbonate – chemical and physiological principles Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃) , often colloquially referred to as baking soda , is a basic salt of sodium (Na⁺) and the bicarbonate ion (HCO₃⁻) . It reacts with acids to form carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water , which explains its central role as a buffer . The bicarbonate in the body The bicarbonate ion occurs naturally in the human body—primarily in blood plasma, interstitial fluid, and the kidneys. It forms a reversible equilibrium system with carbonic acid (H₂CO₃) , known as the bicarbonate buffer system . The underlying reaction is: CO₂ + H₂O ⇌ H₂CO₃ ⇌ H⁺ + HCO₃⁻ This system allows the body to quickly absorb excess acids (H⁺) or bases. When acidity increases, bicarbonate binds hydrogen ions to form carbonic acid, which in turn decomposes into CO₂ and water. The CO₂ is then exhaled through the lungs. Physiological relevance The bicarbonate system is the body's most important extracellular buffer system . Approximately 75% of the blood's buffering capacity is based on this mechanism. It acts directly and forms the basis for fine regulation by the lungs and kidneys . How the body regulates pH – Interaction of organs and buffers The role of the lungs Respiration influences the pH value via the CO₂ content in the blood. Increased CO₂ (e.g., through cellular respiration) increases the acid concentration. Increased respiration (hyperventilation) releases CO₂, causing the pH value to rise again. This regulation occurs within minutes and serves to stabilize the blood in the short term . The role of the kidneys The kidneys are responsible for the long-term regulation of acid-base balance. They can: Recover bicarbonate (reabsorption), form new bicarbonate (new formation), or actively excrete protons (H⁺). This process takes hours to days, but is essential to compensate for chronic fluctuations. Blood as a monitoring system Specialized chemoreceptors in the blood vessels and brain continuously measure pH and CO₂ levels. They control the responses of the lungs and kidneys via the respiratory center and hormonal feedback (e.g., the renin-angiotensin system). Influence of nutrition and metabolism Dietary habits, physical activity, or metabolic processes can influence the acid-base balance . For example, the combustion of proteins produces more acids (so-called "non-volatile acids"), while fruits and vegetables often provide base-forming anions. Nevertheless, blood pH remains constant in healthy people—an indication of the efficiency of the body's own regulation . Scientific perspective on sodium bicarbonate In research , sodium bicarbonate is examined from various perspectives: Bicarbonate in metabolism Studies show that the bicarbonate system plays a central role in maintaining cellular homeostasis . It is involved in transport processes across cell membranes and acts as a cofactor in various enzymatic reactions. Researchers are investigating how changes in bicarbonate levels are related to metabolic states—for example, during intense muscular exercise or metabolic acidosis. Endogenous regulation vs. exogenous supply In physiological studies, a distinction is made between endogenous and exogenous bicarbonate intake. The body has sophisticated mechanisms for regulating bicarbonate itself—through CO₂ release and kidney function. Exogenous forms (e.g., in medical solutions) are used in laboratories and clinics primarily for diagnostics or short-term pH adjustment , for example, in blood gas analyses or in cell culture media. Applications in medicine and biochemistry In clinical practice , sodium bicarbonate is used under strictly controlled conditions, e.g., to correct severe metabolic acidosis. In biochemical research, it serves as a standard buffer in experiments sensitive to pH fluctuations. Scientific evaluation focuses on understanding and precision—not on everyday applications. Misunderstandings and myths surrounding “bases” and “acidification” In public discourse, the term "acidosis" is often used to describe general exhaustion or metabolic problems. From a medical perspective, however , chronic acidosis is only relevant in cases of serious illnesses—such as kidney failure or untreated diabetes. What research says The body has very effective regulatory mechanisms . Significant pH fluctuations in the blood rarely occur in healthy individuals, even with an unbalanced diet or intense exercise. Scientists emphasize that the concept of "dietary hyperacidity" is physiologically untenable—it rather describes short-term changes in urine pH, not in the blood. Serious information Reliable information comes from peer-reviewed studies , physiological textbooks, and professional societies (e.g., the German Nutrition Society, EFSA). Reputable sources clearly distinguish between scientifically proven mechanisms and popular hypotheses. Quality and purity – what matters in sodium bicarbonate products When sodium bicarbonate is used as a raw material or laboratory reagent , purity plays a crucial role. Analytical grade (Ph. Eur. or USP standard) guarantees that it is free of heavy metals or impurities that could interfere with chemical reactions. Technological aspects Modern dietary supplements sometimes feature enteric-coated capsules (e.g., DRcaps®) , which offer a delayed release mechanism. Such technologies originally originated in pharmaceutical development and are used for the targeted release of sensitive substances. Transparency and laboratory analysis Quality assurance today includes laboratory analyses, purity certificates, and traceability of origin. Companies that disclose this data create scientific transparency—an essential component of responsible research and product development. Conclusion – equilibrium as a dynamic system Acid-base balance is a finely tuned, dynamic system. Sodium bicarbonate is at the center of this regulation: It acts as a key component of the bicarbonate buffer system , which, together with the lungs and kidneys, maintains constant blood pH. Research and physiology show that the human body has highly precise mechanisms to prevent fluctuations. Baking soda is not a foreign substance, but rather part of the natural biochemical balance. Understanding these processes promotes a deeper awareness of the complexity of the body's own regulation – beyond myths and simplified representations.
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