Modulación ergogénica de los umbrales ventilatorios: efectos de la suplementación con bicarbonato de sodio y zumo de remolacha en adultos físicamente activos

Abstract

Introduction

Ventilatory thresholds (VT1 and VT2) are key indicators for aerobic exercise prescription and performance. Ergogenic aids such as sodium bicarbonate and beetroot juice may influence metabolic efficiency and exercise tolerance.

Objective

To analyze the effect of acute sodium bicarbonate and beetroot juice supplementation on the displacement of ventilatory thresholds in physically active adults.

Methods

A crossover study was conducted in 14 physically active adults (20–30 years). Participants completed three conditions: placebo, sodium bicarbonate (300 mg kg⁻¹), and beetroot juice (60 ml). Cardiopulmonary exercise testing assessed VT1, VT2, VO₂peak, and maximal aerobic power.

Results

Sodium bicarbonate significantly shifted VT2 and improved maximal aerobic power. Beetroot juice showed moderate effects, with trends toward improved ventilatory efficiency but no significant threshold changes.

Conclusions

Acute sodium bicarbonate supplementation significantly increased VT1 and VT2, suggesting an ergogenic effect on high-intensity exercise tolerance. In contrast, beetroot juice produced only partial improvements without consistent effects across the evaluated ventilatory thresholds.