Baking soda boost: cyclists may get an edge with common kitchen ingredient

This study looked at whether taking sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) before exercise helps well-trained cyclists perform better during a long, intense ride. Nineteen athletes did two lab sessions: three hours of moderate cycling followed by a max-effort time trial. They took either the supplement or a placebo before each session. Researchers measured performance, heart rate, and muscle fatigue to see if the supplement reduces acidity and delays tiredness.