What are the different types of buffering system in the body?

As many chemical reactions in the body, particularly those involving proteins, are pH-dependent, a condition known as acidosis results from the body's pH falling too low (below 7.4). Ideally, the pH of the blood should be maintained at 7.4. If the pH falls below 6.8 or rises above 7.8, death may ensue.

The kidneys are ultimately responsible for excreting H+ ions and other excess components of the pH buffers from the body; metabolic acidosis is the result of the kidneys failing to carry out this excretory function.

The lungs provide a quicker means of helping to regulate the blood's pH; acidosis resulting from the lungs' inability to expel CO2 as quickly as it is produced is known as respiratory acidosis. Excretion by the kidneys is a relatively slow process, and it may take too long to prevent acute acidosis resulting from a sudden decrease in pH (e.g., during exercise).

The blood contains high concentrations of both buffer components (HCO3- and CO2) in comparison to the amount of H+ added during moderate exercise and normal activities.

The different types of buffering systems in the body include the bicarbonate buffering system, the phosphate buffering system, and the protein buffering system.