Acid-base conditions regulate calcium and magnesium homeostasis.

BACKGROUND

Previous experimental studies demonstrate that the acid-base balance influences mineral homeostasis by regulating the absorption of calcium and magnesium in the kidneys. No intervention studies are available on population samples.

AIMS

To study the urinary excretion of calcium and magnesium before and after an intervention with the aim of decreasing the acid load.

METHODS

Healthy subjects aged 50-75 years were recruited by advertising. Urinary calcium, magnesium and urea as well as blood pressure were measured before and after the intervention. This comprised taking tablets containing potassium hydrogen carbonate or potassium chloride (placebo) during 7-10 days.

RESULTS

There were significant relationships between the urinary excretion of urea and magnesium and calcium before the intervention. Comparing before and after intervention, the change in urinary excretion of urea was related to a change in urinary excretion of calcium and magnesium. There was a significant decrease in systolic as well as diastolic blood pressure both after administration of potassium hydrogen carbonate and citrate.

CONCLUSION

The results confirm previous studies showing a relation between acid conditions in the body and the excretion of calcium and add new data on magnesium. A blood pressure decrease after potassium has been found in previous studies. This suggests an alternative for the treatment of moderately increased levels of blood pressure that should be further explored.