I know I’m replying to an old post but wanted to point out there’s a difference between “buffering” and adjusting the pH.
NaOH can be used to adjust the pH of a solution, but it's not a buffer the
Solution. Buffers keep solutions from swinging back and forth in pH.
NaOH is just a very strong base that neutralizes the acidic properties of the glutathione solution.
Sodium bicarbonate can be used as a buffer AND to increase the solubility of glutathione, particularly at higher concentrations.
Here's why sodium bicarbonate can act as a buffer for glutathione:
- pH buffering:
Sodium bicarbonate is a weak base that can neutralize excess hydrogen ions (H+), effectively buffering the pH of a solution.
- Solubility:
Glutathione can be poorly soluble in water, especially at higher concentrations. Sodium bicarbonate can help dissolve GSH, making it more suitable for use in solutions and formulations.
- Improved protein kinetics:
Studies have shown that potassium bicarbonate, a close relative of sodium bicarbonate, can improve whole-body protein kinetics and increase glutathione availability according to a study published in ScienceDirect.
- Enhanced mucociliary transport:
In cystic fibrosis, the combination of bicarbonate and glutathione has been shown to improve mucociliary transport, according to a study published by the NIH.