Your pH is a measurement of the acidity or alkalinity of your body. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 0 being very acidic, 14 being very alkaline or basic and 7 being completely neutral. Human blood should have a pH that is only slightly basic, around 7.3 to 7.5. Readings outside of this range could mean a variety of potential health problems. For instance, an acidic pH may provide an environment suitable for bacteria and other invaders to reproduce. Bringing your pH back to a more balanced alkaline pH will boost your immune system.
Step 1
Wait to test your current pH until two hours have passed since your last meal. This will help to ensure that your mouth is free of any foreign particles.
Step 2
Fill your mouth with saliva and swallow three times. This will clear your mouth of stale saliva.
Step 3
Deposit a bit of saliva in a spoon, cup or other clean holder.
Step 4
Dip a 1-inch strip of litmus paper into the saliva and hold it for 5 seconds. Then, remove the litmus paper and compare its color to the chart on the back of the litmus paper package. This will tell you your pH.
Step 5
Find the appropriate food balance for your body's current pH. If your pH is only slightly acidic--between 6.0 and 6.5--strive to make approximately 60 percent of your diet alkaline-forming foods. Individuals with low, acidic pH--below 6.0--should make approximately 80 percent of their diets alkaline-forming. Those with alkaline pHs--above 7.5--should concentrate 60 percent of their diet on acid-forming foods.
Step 6
Consult a chart of acid-forming and alkaline-forming foods to know how to alter your diet. Green vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, celery and cucumber tend to be alkaline-producing, as well as eggs, yogurt, almonds, sea salt, green tea, apples and honeydew. Many foods high in fat, such as oils and nuts, tend to be acid-producing. Other acidic foods include meats, grains, pasta, beans and dairy.
Step 7
Drink plenty of water. Pure water has a completely neutral pH of 7. Drinking water removes some of the strain on your kidneys and will help neutralize your overall pH.
Tips and Warnings
- It does not always matter whether a food is acidic or basic, but rather whether your body processes the food to be acidic or basic. For instance, lemons are very acidic foods, but your body converts citric acid to alkaline components during digestion, making lemons an alkaline-producing food.
- Do not alter your diet without input from your doctor. Only a physician can recommend dietary choices appropriate for your body and condition.
Things You'll Need
- Litmus paper
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