Conclusion

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This pilot study has shown that venous serum blood alkalosis increases in five triathletes exposed to extreme heat. As core body temperature increased and blood pH became more alkaline, symptomatic factors influencing athletic performance including mental clarity, nausea, and running ability were negatively impacted. Therefore, one can infer that blood pH plays an important role in athletic performance and should be considered when undertaking training programs for endurance activities. Future studies are needed to see if measures can be taken to lower an athlete’s blood pH prior to or during an event through diet and/or supplements to help ensure alkalinity does not rise to such an extent as to impact performance.

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