RSS
Home
Ps. About pH....
Print
Email
RSS
Subscribe
Apples
The internal environment of the body plays a key role in our good health, so let’s talk about acid/alkaline balance.
A healthy body maintains a pH between 6.5 – 7.5 (which is alkaline). This is the appropriate pH in order for the body to have necessary cell reactions and for functions to occur. Luckily the body regulates pH on it own; however there is a limit to how much acid it can neutralize. Too much acid accumulates from lifestyle choices and diet; this is where we can take care to support the body.
A diet high in fat, simple sugars or too much protein (yes too much protein can compromise your heath!) produces an acid burden. When the body metabolizes these substances, excess acid products remain. The body will then link these with alkaline minerals (calcium, magnesium, potassium) and excrete them. These minerals protect the kidneys, bladder and ureter from acid damage. If the body becomes depleted of needed minerals –acid will build up – and reduce the effectiveness and efficiency of tissues and cells; encouraging illness, fatigue and pain.
The immune system is at all times burdened by foreign elements just through being alive; pollution, infection, improper digestion; however when the load surpasses the body’s reserves it causes a continual state of distress, and our health begins to decline. Consequently, the body’s chemical messengers of distress (cortisol, insulin, adrenaline) increase, causing a psychological response (which is acid enhancing) - and therefore further increase the body’s acid load.
For proper pH balance, the diet should consist of:
60% Alkaline-forming foods-
Fruit, veggies, lentils, spices, herbs and seasonings, seeds and nuts.
(note- although some fruits contain citric acid, they metabolize to an alkaline residue in the body called bicarbonate.)
And 40% Acid-forming foods-
Meat, fish, poultry, eggs, grains, legumes.
Remember to eat a variety of fresh, lively, whole foods (preferably certified organic and biodynamic). Drink plenty of pure water, consume enough fiber, enhance “good fat” intake (essential fatty acids), and build alkaline mineral reserves.
Curious where you stand? Check your pH with an OTC pH test packet sold at your local pharmacy.
Related Articles:
Comments
