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The Importance of pH Balance in Your Body
Correct acidity and alkalinity levels within your body are important for staying healthy. Our cells thrive in an alkaline environment. It is only in certain parts of the body, such as the digestive tract, that acidic conditions are required – in this case, for the breaking down of food.
The pH scale is used as a measure of the acid-alkaline level in the body. The scale runs for 0 to 14. Body fluids are considered acidic if the pH is below 6.4 and alkaline if it is above this level. The exception is blood, which has a normal pH of 7.3. The aim is to keep our alkaline level between 7.3 and 7.4.
The metabolic processes carried out by cells result in an acidic environment. We need to ensure that our bodies are functioning sufficiently and obtaining the correct nutrients in order to counteract this acidity and maintain a healthy environment. If we don’t, not only do our cells underperform, but also these conditions are ideal for disease. Specifically, we must not contribute to increased acidity in our systems.
The typical symptoms of acidity include: lack of energy, various skin conditions, depression, poor immunity and reactivation of chronic conditions such as high blood pressure. We can experience acute attacks of acidity or it can become chronic. Ongoing, severe acidity is called acidosis. In this instance one can experience a weak immune system, poor digestion, disorders of the digestive system and muscle aches and pains. In very severe cases, acidosis can lead to blood sugar and cardiovascular issues, obesity, circulatory problems and fertility issues.
Firstly, let’s look at preventing further acid build-up in our bodies:
What we eat is a significant factor in determining acid-alkaline levels. Sugar, coffee, alcohol and large amounts of animal protein (meats, fish, poultry, eggs etc.) cause acidity so, if we have problems with acid levels in our body, we should try to reduce our intake of these foods. Stress and nicotine also contribute towards acidity. The obvious solution here is relaxation and to stop smoking.
Now, what we can do about improving alkalinity?
The first course of action is to increase water consumption. This is required to stimulate the de-acidification process in the kidneys. (A general healthy living tip is that your daily water intake needs to be enough for you to pass clear urine at least once a day.)
There is much debate over which foods are alkaline and which are acidic. Suffice to say that most fruit and vegetables will assist with sustaining alkalinity. As always, the advice is to maintain healthy eating habits. What we need are the alkalizing minerals, which are calcium, magnesium and potassium. In severe cases of acidosis, you can take alkaline powder.
Finally, digestion is an important factor. Acidity is synonymous with poor digestion. Chew food adequately and be aware of when and how much you are eating. Also, don’t drink with meals as this hinders the start of the digestive process in the mouth.
At the end of the day, you need to be attuned to the requirements of your own body. Become aware of what causes and what relieves excessive acidity in your body. PH levels vary naturally, but you have the ability to adjust them for staying healthy.
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I used to suffer from acid build up for most of my adult life. Then on of my friend recommended taking live yogurt. It took a few weeks to see the benefit but now I feel great.
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this makes sense, thanks for the post, it is interesting to see what normal things we eat are upsetting our balance.