Acidic substances can be neutralized by basic or alkaline compounds. The body carefully regulates the balance of acidic and basic chemicals in the body; if you have too much or too little acid in your body, it can disrupt the function of cells and proteins, negatively impacting your overall health. According to the acid/alkaline balance theory of diet, most people in the Western world consume too much acid-generating food, leading to an overabundance of acid in the body.
Step 1
Decrease your consumption of acid-producing foods. Many animal proteins, including beef, seafood, lamb, rabbit, pork and turkey, cause an increase in the amount of acid in your body. Many grains, including barley, wheat, corn, white rice and oats have a similar acidifying effect. Corn oil, lard, olive oil, canola oil and sunflower oil, as well as beans, legumes and dairy products, can also make your body more acidic, the Wolfe Clinic website explains. A maximum of 20 percent of your diet should come from acidifying foods, according to BetterBones.com.
Step 2
Consume more alkalizing foods. Alkalizing foods include most vegetables and fruits -- especially citrus fruits, because they leave behind alkaline chemicals as they are broken down. Many spices and seasonings also can reduce the acid in your body, including cinnamon, curry, sea salt, mustard, ginger, chili pepper and the artificial sweetener stevia.
Step 3
Take sodium bicarbonate supplements. Sodium bicarbonate, also known as baking soda, is an alkaline substance that can be purchased at almost any grocery store. To reduce the acid in your body, take between 325 and 2,000 mg of sodium bicarbonate one to four times each day, Drugs.com recommends. Calcium bicarbonate tablets should be swallowed whole and washed down with water.
Things You'll Need
- Sodium bicarbonate
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