A well-functioning buffer system guarantees that the concentration of acids and bases in the body is well balanced and therefore all biological and physiological processes in the body perform at their best. The buffer system is regulated by the kidneys’ filtration and excretion and ensures that the blood pH value ranges between 7.35 and 7.45.

The lifestyle is crucial. An unbalanced diet, e.g. excessive consumption of animal proteins and various genetic or acquired diseases can adversely disrupt this buffering system and thus facilitate metabolic acidosis. However, this does not produce any immediate symptoms. But if this condition remains unchanged over a longer period of time, various complications or secondary organic lesions can occur.

One of the long-term symptoms is the loss of bone substance, that will result finally in an osteopenia and osteoporosis. This also amplify the age-related decrease of the kidney function. The effectiveness of insulin will be reduced, which can promote the beginning of a diabetes mellitus. A further possible complication is be the formation of kidney stones.