Balance Acid with Alkaline

Think back to grade nine science. Do you remember what pH is? Let me remind you, all the fluids of our body have a pH and the body is constantly working through the process of homeostasis to maintain a certain pH. (Around 7.365 to be exact.) Let’s do a little review. A neutral pH is 7, an acidic substance is anything below 7 where a pure acid is a pH of 0 and an alkaline pH is anything above 7 where a perfect base is a pH of 14. When we eat food, it can either produce acid, alkaline or neutral effect on the body. When we eat foods that produce an acid or alkaline effect on the body without balance, the body must work harder to mitigate the effects of pH and keep our bodily fluids in homeostasis. But, when you eat acid forming foods and balance them with alkaline forming foods they have a neutral effect on the body! 

So, which foods are which?  Some of the most acidic foods like lemons, tomatoes and grapefruits are alkaline forming in the body along with most other fruits, vegetables and mushrooms. Raw fruits and vegetables are especially good.  Acid forming foods in the body include meats, processed foods, eggs, lentils, oats, milk, pasta, some nuts, rice and breads. 

Eating too many acidic foods, which is common in our typical western diet, can be hard on the body.  Some of the effects include increased intolerance to  some food, asthma issues and congestion.  Some people can feel fatigued, there can be effects of inflammation, joint and muscle pain, skin issues and weight gain.  Other people's symptoms may include overburdened immune function and fighting off colds and flues becomes difficult so they either find themselves under the weather more often or for a longer duration. 

One last point, food is not the only thing that can send our body into an overly acidic state.  Alcohol, chronic stress, artificial sweeteners, lack of OR excess exercise, food coloring and preservatives, excess hormones from foods, beauty products and plastics can all throw your body off balance.  Some of these things we can control, some of them, maybe not so much. 

So, what can we do? An easy addition to every meal….more veggies!!  Add a side salad, add steamed greens or start your day with a green smoothie!!  I have included a green smoothie recipe to get you started and so that you have no excuses!! I really hope you love it!!  Try it ASAP and report back your thoughts.  I am curious about what you think of this idea of acid vs. alkaline in the diet.  I look forward to hearing your thoughts!  Thanks for reading and I hope you come back tomorrow for another Holiday Health Tip!!