Question

What happens when there is a build-up of lactic acid in muscles?

Answer 1

Hint: Lactic acid, or lactate, is a chemical byproduct of anaerobic respiration — the process by which cells produce energy without oxygen around. Lactic acid is also in our blood, where it's deposited by muscle and red blood cells.

Complete answer:
Lactic acid buildup occurs when there’s not enough oxygen in the muscles to break down glucose and glycogen by the aerobic pathway. So they are broken down by anaerobic metabolism and lactic acid is produced as the end product.

When doing exercise, it’s important to avoid overexerting yourself. This can lead to increase oxygen demand and if oxygen demand is not satisfied, the muscles undergo anaerobic breakdown of glucose and start producing lactic acid thus Lactic acid is produced in your muscles and builds up during intense exercise. It can lead to painful, sore muscles.

Lactic acid buildup due to exercise is usually temporary and not for a lot of concern, but it can affect your workouts by causing discomfort. This is also called lactic acidosis, as the accumulation of lactic acid decreases body pH.

Now the question arises how can this be prevented? Begin any exercise routine gradually, Pace yourself. Start with an aerobic exercise like running or fast walking and doing warmup before the start of exercise. Increase the amount of exercise each week gradually so that your body builds up a tolerance. This will increase your "lactate threshold" also, making it less likely you'll get lactic acidosis. Make sure you drink lots of water as it helps get rid of any excess acid. Eat a balanced diet that includes lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats and get plenty of sleep at night and give yourself time to recover between bouts of exercise.

Thus, lactic acidosis causes muscle cramps i.e sore muscles and also causes nausea.

Note: The soreness you sometimes feel in your muscles a day or two after an intense workout isn't from lactic acidosis it’s because your muscles recovering from the workout you gave them. Proper oxygenation or controlling breathing wisely while doing exercise is the key to avoid anaerobic metabolism and thus lactic acidosis.