What Are Electrolytes?
10. Bicarbonate and Phosphate
Bicarbonate is required in the body for neutralizing excessive acidity. This way, bicarbonate helps maintain the acid-alkaline balance so that blood pH remains within the normal range of between 7.35 and 7.45. Bicarbonate ions also help transport waste carbon dioxide from body tissues and organs to the lungs where it is expelled. Normal bicarbonate levels range between 22 and 26 mEq/L. Foods high in bicarbonate include those containing baking soda or sodium bicarbonate, bananas, spinach, and potatoes.
The human body needs phosphate for building and repair of bones and teeth, storage of energy through the production of adenosine triphosphate or ATP. Phosphates activate B-complex vitamins, and are also important cofactors in the metabolism of carbohydrate, fat and protein. 85 percent of phosphate is found in bones and the rest is mainly found within cells. The normal phosphate levels in blood range between 2.5 and 4.5 mg/dL. Rich sources of phosphate include lentils, scallops, whole grains, squash seeds, chicken, milk, and beef.
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