COMPENDIUM ON FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE - Flipbook - Page 250
Alarm
115 mEq/L
Carbon Dioxide - Bicarbonate
Carbon dioxide (CO₂) on a standard blood panel primarily reflects
bicarbonate, a key alkaline buffer regulated by the kidneys. This
marker assesses the acid-base balance and the body’s ability to
neutralize acids through proper kidney function.
Since the kidneys play a central role in maintaining pH by
regulating bicarbonate, CO₂ levels can also provide insight into
overall renal buffering capacity. While it’s often called CO₂, it
should not be confused with respiratory CO₂, which is managed
by the lungs.
When to run this test:
● To evaluate systemic pH balance
Range
Units
Conventional
95 - 108 mEq/L
Optimal / Functional
99 - 106 mEq/L
Alarm
< 90 or > 115 mEq/L
Phosphorous
Phosphorus, found in the body as phosphate, is essential for
producing ATP4the primary energy source for cells4as well as
supporting muscle function, red blood cell formation, and
acid-base balance. It also plays a key role in metabolizing
carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Serum phosphate can reflect
overall digestive function.
Factors like age, sex, pregnancy, and vitamin D status influence
phosphate levels. It’s regulated by the parathyroid hormone,
vitamin D, kidney function, and intestinal absorption. High calcium
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