Alkaline tide

Alkaline Tide

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Illustration showing the concept of Alkaline Tide

An alkaline tide refers to a physiological phenomenon characterized by an increase in the pH of urine following a meal. This occurs due to the secretion of bicarbonate ions into the bloodstream by the stomach lining during the digestion of food. The term "alkaline tide" is derived from the fact that the pH of the urine becomes more alkaline or basic during this process.

Mechanism

During the process of digestion, the stomach secretes hydrochloric acid (HCl) to aid in the breakdown of food. In response to the increased acidity in the stomach, the parietal cells of the gastric mucosa secrete bicarbonate ions (HCO3-) into the bloodstream. These bicarbonate ions are then transported to the kidneys where they are excreted in the urine, leading to an increase in urinary pH.

Clinical Significance

The alkaline tide is a normal physiological process that helps maintain acid-base balance in the body. However, abnormalities in the alkaline tide can be indicative of certain medical conditions. For example, conditions that affect the secretion of gastric acid or bicarbonate ions can disrupt the normal alkaline tide process.

Regulation

The alkaline tide is regulated by various factors including hormonal signals and neural inputs. Hormones such as gastrin and secretin play a role in stimulating the secretion of bicarbonate ions by the stomach lining. Neural inputs from the vagus nerve also contribute to the regulation of the alkaline tide.

For more information on related topics, see acid-base balance and gastric acid secretion.

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