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CO2 (Bicarbonate)

Metabolic Unit: mmol/L

Buffering capacity of blood

Also known as: HCO3,Total CO2

Reference Ranges

Clinical Reference 22.0 – 29.0 mmol/L
Optimal Range 24.0 – 28.0 mmol/L
Critical Range < 15.0 / > 40.0 mmol/L

Acid-base balance

Related Conditions

Metabolic Alkalosis High
Metabolic Acidosis Low

Food & Lifestyle Recommendations

🍎 Food Increase fruits and vegetables; reduce high animal-protein load Alkaline-forming foods raise bicarbonate

Evidence-Backed Supplements

When Low

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

  • Does my anion gap suggest a specific type of acidosis? Narrows differential

Upload your blood test to see how your CO2 (Bicarbonate) compares to reference and optimal ranges.

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