Is sodium bicarbonate banned by WADA?
No. Sodium bicarbonate is not on the WADA prohibited list. It is legal for use in all sports at all levels of competition, including Olympic events.
How much sodium bicarbonate should I take?
The evidence-based dose is 0.3g per kg of body weight. A 70kg athlete takes 21g of sodium bicarbonate. BICARB.NET's 60g sachets are pre-dosed for 60–70kg athletes at 19g NaHCO₃ per serving.
When should I take bicarb before exercise?
Take it 90 minutes before your race or hard session. This allows peak blood bicarbonate elevation to coincide with the start of your effort. Take it at least 1 hour after your last meal.
Why does baking soda cause stomach problems?
Raw sodium bicarbonate reacts with stomach acid (HCl) immediately, producing CO₂ gas that causes bloating and nausea. BICARB.NET's hydrogel system encases the bicarb in a gel matrix that protects it from stomach acid and releases it in the small intestine instead.
What sports benefit most from bicarb?
The strongest evidence is for high-intensity efforts lasting 45 seconds to 8 minutes: 800m–3000m running, cycling intervals, rowing, CrossFit WODs, combat sports, and swimming sprints. Less evidence exists for steady-state aerobic efforts over 10K pace.
Can I use bicarb every day?
No. Due to the high sodium load, maximum 3 doses per week. Reduce dietary sodium from other sources on days you take it, and stay well hydrated.
What's the difference between BICARB.NET and Maurten BICARB 100?
Both use a hydrogel system to protect sodium bicarbonate from stomach acid. Maurten uses pectin and sodium alginate; BICARB.NET uses xanthan gum. The functional mechanism is the same. Maurten costs $17.50/serving; BICARB.NET costs $5.
Is BICARB.NET FDA approved?
Dietary supplements are not FDA 'approved' — that category is for drugs. BICARB.NET is manufactured in an FDA-registered facility under 21 CFR Part 111 (cGMP), which is the correct regulatory status for dietary supplements in the United States.
Can I use bicarb with beta-alanine?
Yes. The two supplements have complementary mechanisms — bicarb buffers extracellularly (in the blood), beta-alanine builds intracellular carnosine (inside muscles). Research supports their combined use for additive effects.
How do I mix BICARB.NET?
Pour one 60g sachet into 60–80ml of cold water in a shaker bottle. Shake for 90 seconds. Let rest 3–5 minutes until the gel thickens. Drink the entire gel in one go 90 minutes before effort.
Where can I buy BICARB.NET?
Batch 1 is 100 sachets available in person at Palo Alto High School track on April 20, 2026 at 3:50pm. Reserve your spot via the order form at bicarb.net or pay directly via Venmo (@paulwangllc). Online shipping begins with Batch 2.
Is bicarb safe for high school athletes?
Sodium bicarbonate is a food ingredient with an extensive safety record. BICARB.NET is formulated for athletes 18+, consistent with standard supplement industry practice. High school athletes should consult with a coach or sports dietitian before adding any supplement to their routine.
Try Batch 1 — $5/bag
Pickup at Paly Track, Palo Alto · April 20, 2026 · 3:50pm · 100 bags only.
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