Latent metabolic acidosis

Naturopathic term which defines the presence of a "latent (subclinical) metabolic acidosis": In this case, the acid-base balance of the body is affected by an excessive supply of protein-containing products in such a way that the base buffer capacity drops sharply, but the pH value is still within the normal range. In the case of latent metabolic acidosis, the homeostasis (equilibrium) of the pH value is still present in its narrow limits between 7.38 and 7.42.

Although it can be assumed that disturbances of the acid-base balance are not rare, figures on the prevalence (frequency of disease) and incidence (frequency of new diseases) of latent metabolic acidosis are not available.

The therapy of latent metabolic acidosis focuses on the treatment of the underlying disease, i.e. the cause, as well as an adequate and balanced diet. The diet should include less acid-forming foods (e.g. meat, cheese, fish, milk, eggs and sweets). Instead, the diet should preferably contain "base-producing" foods (potatoes, vegetables and fruit). Taking a dietary supplement containing alkaline minerals (magnesium, potassium and calcium citrate) is recommended from a naturopathic point of view.

As a latent metabolic acidosis is often not recognized, a "latent connective tissue acidosis" occurs as a result, which can lead, among other things, to a demineralization of the skeletal system and thus to osteoporosis. This is particularly true in older patients who have renal latent metabolic acidosis. Thus, the majority of patients with musculoskeletal complaints and diseases have a latent metabolic acidosis.

1. Schaefer R et al (2005) Acid-base balance disorders: rational diagnosis and economic therapy . Dtsch Arztebl 102: A-1896 / B-1603 / C-1509
2. Weidner B (2012) In: André-Michael Beer, Martin Adler [Ed.] Leitfaden Naturheilverfahren für die ärztliche Praxis, Urban und Fischer Verlag S 117f.